Learning center / Acoustics by building type / Daycare and early learning

Fabrics, colors and shapes for daycare rooms

Fabric types, colors and shapes that work in daycare rooms.

2 minute read · Updated Nov 2026

Panels are part of the interior, so in daycare rooms they should look intentional. Every panel can be made in any of our shapes, sizes, fabric types and colors.

Fabrics we recommend for daycare rooms

  • Recycled PET felt (basic)
  • Wipeable vinyl (basic)
  • Xorel by Carnegie (premium)

Color

Panels that match the wall almost disappear; contrasting panels become art. A common approach is to match on large walls and use one accent color for a feature grouping. Order a free swatch card before you decide.

Shape and pattern

Mixing two shapes, for example arches with circles or hexagons with triangles, keeps a wall from looking like a grid. Routed grooves, waves and faceted faces add texture where the panel is the main feature.

Printed artwork

Any flat panel can carry a printed image: logos, photography or wayfinding. Aim for about 100 pixels per inch at full size.

Browse idea starters for layouts you can adapt.