Few designs in the history of interiors feel as instantly recognisable, comforting, and quietly luxurious as William Morris & Co.’s Strawberry Thief. It is a pattern that feels storied yet liveable, decorative yet grounding. For many lovers of classic British design, Strawberry Thief is not just a print - it is an emotional touchstone.
At Willy Morris Home Emporium, Strawberry Thief continues to be one of the most admired and sought-after designs across cushions, textiles and decorative accents. And it’s easy to see why. This iconic pattern brings warmth, artistry, and heritage into modern homes without feeling old-fashioned.
In this in-depth guide, we’ll explore how to decorate with the Strawberry Thief pattern in a way that feels intentional, stylish, and practical. You’ll find room-by-room inspiration, colour guidance, pattern-mixing advice and ideas for both small updates and full transformations - always with real homes in mind.
"Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful” - William Morris
Make yourself comfortable, imagine your favourite room at home, and let’s explore how Strawberry Thief can quietly transform the way it feels.
What Is the Strawberry Thief Pattern?
Before diving into decorating ideas, it helps to understand why Strawberry Thief has remained one of the most beloved William Morris patterns for well over a century.
The Story Behind Strawberry Thief
Designed by William Morris in 1883, Strawberry Thief was inspired by the thrushes that raided the strawberry patch at Morris’s country home, Kelmscott Manor. Rather than seeing them as pests, Morris found beauty in their movement and mischief, translating the scene into a richly layered textile design.
The pattern was produced using the indigo discharge printing technique - a complex and costly method that allowed for extraordinary depth of colour and detail. This craftsmanship is one reason Strawberry Thief has always been associated with quality and artistry.
The design features:
- Symmetrical birds in mirrored poses
- Flowing vines and leaves
- Small strawberries and blossoms woven throughout
Despite its intricacy, the pattern feels balanced and rhythmic, making it surprisingly easy to live with.
Why Strawberry Thief Still Works in Modern Homes
Strawberry Thief remains one of the most searched-for William Morris & Co patterns because it:
- Feels timeless rather than trend-led
- Adds warmth and visual interest without harsh contrast
- Works beautifully across traditional and contemporary interiors
- Scales well from small accessories to statement pieces
Whether your home leans cottage, classic, eclectic or modern, Strawberry Thief can be styled to suit.
Understanding Strawberry Thief Colourways
Choosing the right colourway is key to decorating confidently with Strawberry Thief. Each version creates a very different mood.
Classic Black Strawberry Thief
The dark background is the most iconic and dramatic colourway.
Ideal for:
- Living rooms
- Dining rooms
- Period homes and heritage interiors
Styling tips:
- Pair with warm timber furniture
- Add brass, bronze, or antique finishes
- Balance with neutral walls or flooring
Internal link prompt: Explore Strawberry Thief cushions and throws at Willy Morris Home Emporium to introduce this colourway without committing to wallpaper.
Blue Strawberry Thief
Blue Strawberry Thief feels calm, elegant and timeless.
Ideal for:
- Bedrooms
- Bathrooms
- Light-filled or coastal homes
Styling tips:
- Pair with crisp white or soft grey
- Use natural textures like linen and cotton
- Perfect for bedding, cushions, and soft furnishings
Green Strawberry Thief
Green versions feel grounded and botanical, echoing Morris’s love of nature.
Ideal for:
- Reading rooms and libraries
- Sunrooms and conservatories
- Relaxed, nature-inspired interiors
Styling tips:
- Layer with houseplants
- Pair with stone, oak or rattan
- Works beautifully with warm neutrals
Decorating with Strawberry Thief in the Living Room
The living room is often the heart of the home - and one of the most rewarding places to introduce Strawberry Thief.
Cushions: The Easiest Starting Point
If you are new to William Morris interiors, cushions are the most approachable way to begin.
Why cushions work so well:
- Easy to change seasonally
- Add instant character
- Allow you to experiment with pattern
Styling ideas:
- Pair one or two Strawberry Thief cushions with plain linen cushions
- Mix textures such as velvet, cotton, and woven fabrics
- Repeat colours from the pattern elsewhere in the room
Internal link prompt: Shop William Morris Strawberry Thief cushion covers at Willy Morris Home Emporium for an easy living room update.
Throws and Accent Textiles
A Strawberry Thief throw draped over a sofa or armchair adds softness and warmth without overpowering the space.
Design tip: Keep the main furniture neutral - cream, taupe or soft grey - so the pattern feels intentional rather than busy.
Feature Walls and Wallpaper
A Strawberry Thief feature wall can feel dramatic and inviting when done thoughtfully.
Best practice:
- Choose one wall only
- Keep remaining walls neutral
- Echo the colour palette with cushions, art or rugs
Pro Tip: North-facing living rooms benefit from warmer Strawberry Thief colourways like red or gold-toned backgrounds.
Using Strawberry Thief in the Bedroom
Bedrooms are where Strawberry Thief truly shines. The pattern feels cocooning, nostalgic and deeply comforting.
Strawberry Thief Bedding
Bedding is one of the most searched-for ways to use this iconic design.
Why it works:
- Creates a boutique hotel feel
- Adds visual interest without clutter
- Layers beautifully with plain sheets
Styling suggestions:
- Use white or soft grey sheets to balance the pattern
- Add a textured throw at the foot of the bed
- Keep bedside tables simple and uncluttered
Internal link prompt: Discover William Morris inspired bedroom textiles at Willy Morris Home Emporium for a layered, restful look.
Curtains and Window Treatments
Strawberry Thief curtains frame windows beautifully and add softness to bedrooms.
Balance the look by:
- Choosing lighter fabric weights
- Avoiding additional large-scale patterns
- Letting natural light soften the design
Strawberry Thief in Dining Rooms
Dining rooms are ideal spaces for bold pattern and atmosphere.
Wallpapered Dining Rooms
Strawberry Thief wallpaper creates a sense of intimacy and occasion.
Pair it with:
- Dark timber furniture
- Soft, warm lighting
- Simple tableware to avoid visual overload
Patterned walls make a dining room feel dressed, not decorated.
Table Linens and Soft Seating
For a subtler approach, introduce Strawberry Thief through:
- Table runners
- Seat cushions
- Woven Cotton Blanket as a table cover
Internal link prompt: Browse William Morris dining room accessories at Willy Morris Home Emporium for elegant, functional updates.
Decorating Kitchens With Strawberry Thief
While kitchens are practical spaces, they benefit enormously from warmth and personality.
Soft Furnishings in the Kitchen
Strawberry Thief works beautifully in kitchens when used thoughtfully.
Ideas include:
- Tea towels
- Table Runners
- Cloth Napkins
These elements add charm without compromising function.
Breakfast Nooks and Eating Areas
A small breakfast nook is a perfect place for patterned cushions or upholstered seating.
Design tip: Use Strawberry Thief here to create a cosy, inviting corner that feels separate from the rest of the kitchen.
Strawberry Thief in Hallways and Entryways
Small spaces are often the most impactful places to use bold pattern.
Why It Works So Well
- Short exposure prevents overwhelm
- Creates a memorable first impression
- Adds personality to transitional spaces
Style hallways with:
- A simple console table
- A mirror to reflect light
- Minimal decorative objects
Internal link prompt: Explore William Morris hallway decor at Willy Morris Home Emporium for compact, statement-making pieces.
Bathrooms and Powder Rooms
Bathrooms are perfect for playful, confident pattern use.
Wallpaper and Textiles
Strawberry Thief adds luxury and charm to bathrooms when paired with:
- White or stone tiles
- Brass or matte black fixtures
- Soft lighting
Complement with:
- Coordinating hand towels
- Simple accessories
Decorating Small Homes and Apartments With Strawberry Thief
Contrary to popular belief, bold patterns often work better in smaller spaces.
Tips for Small Spaces
- Use Strawberry Thief in one defined area
- Keep surrounding elements simple
- Let pattern do the heavy lifting
Strawberry Thief adds depth and interest without requiring extra furniture or clutter.
Mixing Strawberry Thief With Other William Morris Patterns
Pattern mixing is part of the Arts & Crafts tradition.
How to Mix Successfully
- Stick to a cohesive colour palette
- Vary the scale of patterns
- Use plain areas as visual rest points
Rule of thumb: Let Strawberry Thief lead and allow other patterns to support it.
Strawberry Thief in Modern Interiors
Strawberry Thief is not limited to traditional homes.
In modern spaces:
- Use it sparingly
- Pair with clean-lined furniture
- Contrast with concrete, glass or steel
The tension between old and new creates visual interest.
Why Strawberry Thief Is a Smart Long-Term Choice
Timeless Design
It transcends trends and seasons.
Flexible Styling
It moves effortlessly between rooms and homes.
Strong Buyer and Search Interest
High-intent, low-competition keywords include:
- William Morris Strawberry Thief decor ideas
- Strawberry Thief cushions Australia
- Affordable William Morris home decor
- How to decorate with William Morris patterns
These align perfectly with the curated collections at Willy Morris Home Emporium.
Final Thoughts: Living With Strawberry Thief
Decorating with Strawberry Thief is not about rules - it is about creating a home that feels layered, expressive and comforting.
Start small. Trust your instincts. Let the pattern tell its story alongside yours.
