What distinguishes cloisonné from other decorative techniques?

Cloisonné is distinguished from other decorative techniques by its method of creating design patterns using strips of wire. This technique involves soldering thin metal strips to a base, forming compartments or "cloisons," which are then filled with enamel or other materials. The result is a vibrant and intricate design, as the wires create distinctive boundaries that maintain the separation of colors and materials.

The other options reference different artistic processes that do not apply to cloisonné. For example, using paint as the primary medium pertains to painting techniques rather than metal and enamel work, while fabric elements may relate to textile arts, and carving techniques are characteristic of sculpture and relief work rather than the enamel-based applications of cloisonné. Thus, the unique characteristic of using wires to separate materials specifically points to the essence of cloisonné art.