Paisley is a droplet-shaped vegetable motif of Persian and Indian origin. It resembles a twisted teardrop that is kidney-shaped. When it is made into a pattern, it is sometimes called "Persian pickles" by American traditionalists, especially when it is designed on quilts and textiles. There are many stories about the origin of paisley. But whatever they are, one thing is clear--it has gone a long way, and it has influenced many designs around the globe. Inspired by traditional motifs that date back to Iran and India, paisley patterns mix the psychedelic and the spiritual. Calming and comforting, these 16 sophisticated illustrations offer a dazzling array of possible color combinations.