By John Ca. Baker
First, never overwhelm Is it getting to you staring day after day at the exact same windows that bring absolutely no life to your home?
We’d like to offer some tips that will help you choose and utilize your new window coverings with the makeover of your homes life.
yourself and start more that one room at a time. You’ll be tempted to do this, more so if it’s a new home that you’re moving into, but you must resist. It takes way too much energy to decorate more than one room at time. As well, it will deplete your creativity, making your decorating style boring and not the least interesting. So take your time, and complete one room at a time, and then you can carry on to the next.
Next, you’ll want to assess your needs. The best way to do this is with the old reliable pen and paper, just writing down some quick notes such as window sizes etc. A quick sketch will benefit as well. You’ll want to see if the windows are odd in size, or have mismatched shapes and sizes compared to one another. Would you like less light in the room or more light? You’ll be glad you know the answer to that when you’re picking out your drapes. Do you have a view that you’re not taking advantage of now? Do you get privacy at night or in the day for that matter? Is the room just plain dreary and you’re looking to liven the place up? Go over it with you spouse and family members and consider everyone’s opinion during this task. Just write everything down.
You’ll likely need a little advice or assistance when starting such a project. In that case you can look through various home repair or decorating magazine to get some ideas on what you can do to enhance your homes appearance. They actually have books and magazines on the subject of window decorating so you’ll have tons of inspiration there. As well don’t forget about all of the websites, probably many more than you’ll ever need. Don’t go to crazy and get information overload or you’ll likely end up doing nothing about your windows.
Now that you have you list of needs and wants, prioritize them in order of importance, and begin to devise a plan using your list in that very order. You’ll get nowhere fast without a plan.
So that you’re not overwhelmed by the task, or if you have restraints such as a budget, then take on the task in stages. You can begin with such things as the blinds, shades, and shutters in mind, and move onto such things as the curtains or drapes, and next finish with the rods and decorative hardware.
Now you are very much closer to getting rid of your old dreary windows and replacing them with new livelier ones that will enhance the entire appearance of your home. Enjoy the process and you’ll likely be ready to take on the next home repair project with much more zeal.
About the Author: John C. Baker routinely writes web pages on areas related to drapes and curtains. His contributions on window coverings are published on his site .
Source: www.isnare.com
Friday, August 31, 2007
Thursday, August 30, 2007
Make Simple Curtains and Valance for any Window
Draughts can be identified in a number of ways such as identifying obvious gaps, feeling for moving air around doors and windows and looking out for moving curtains. Luckily, with babies, no one cares that a little boy?s room is done in light greens and yellows, but when they get older their friends might tend to make fun of them if this were still the case.Girls have an option that boys don?t have as they get older, and this is to have a canopy bed, with the curtains hanging on the rods above.
Where will you place the curtains in the windowWill you do them café style or halfway down the window Maybe you only want a small space between the valance and curtain, use your imagination, draw a sketch of the window and do some placements on it to see " "Well," Mom said, "I`m glad my curtains are good for something. Heavy and dated curtains can be taken down to allow natural light in. Using Multiple Area Rugs Should you use one rug or two One rug is the general rule as it coordinates the room together and helps select fabrics for furniture, curtains, etc.
"Mom`s letting you use her curtains to wax the tractor" "Well, I don`t know if she knows I`m using them to wax the tractor. Decorating boys bedrooms with insect-laden fabrics for curtains and other linens is a winner with most guys. Always maximize the potential of existing decor; wash old curtains, re-stain old wood casings, anything that refreshes and emphasizes all the potential of the space and decor of the home. Bernice peered through the gap in the curtains, careful not to move them for fear someone would notice.
Put up some lace curtains and make a scarf from the fabric you use for your table cloth..or maybe you have a plain white table cloth already available. Replace thick winter curtains that keep heat in with light summer curtains that allow breezes through. Fortunately, most shower curtains are very inexpensive, though some of the higher quality models do tend to cost a little more.
They`re not much good for curtains anymore, but they make dandy wiping rags. " "I also heard you used my curtains. Even without a pillow or fluffy blanket in the bed, a baby on their stomach can get stuck face-down and not be able to move their head to the side to get air, leading to suffocation.? Mini Blinds and CurtainsJust as with wall hangers and pictures, it is very important not to ever place a baby?s bed near a window with mini blind or curtains.
" "They`re not much good for curtains anymore," Dad said. Make Simple Curtains and Valance for any Window By Robin Hall Making a quick set of curtains and a valance is something that you can do even if you dont have much sewing experience.
Make ?short? rooms tall using window-to-floor curtains or draperies in contrast to short furniture.Traditional interior design includes MANY alternatives to window coverings that will fit any home. For example, just use a simple leaf outline rather than showing every vein in the leaf as it is depicted in the curtains.
Where will you place the curtains in the windowWill you do them café style or halfway down the window Maybe you only want a small space between the valance and curtain, use your imagination, draw a sketch of the window and do some placements on it to see " "Well," Mom said, "I`m glad my curtains are good for something. Heavy and dated curtains can be taken down to allow natural light in. Using Multiple Area Rugs Should you use one rug or two One rug is the general rule as it coordinates the room together and helps select fabrics for furniture, curtains, etc.
"Mom`s letting you use her curtains to wax the tractor" "Well, I don`t know if she knows I`m using them to wax the tractor. Decorating boys bedrooms with insect-laden fabrics for curtains and other linens is a winner with most guys. Always maximize the potential of existing decor; wash old curtains, re-stain old wood casings, anything that refreshes and emphasizes all the potential of the space and decor of the home. Bernice peered through the gap in the curtains, careful not to move them for fear someone would notice.
Put up some lace curtains and make a scarf from the fabric you use for your table cloth..or maybe you have a plain white table cloth already available. Replace thick winter curtains that keep heat in with light summer curtains that allow breezes through. Fortunately, most shower curtains are very inexpensive, though some of the higher quality models do tend to cost a little more.
They`re not much good for curtains anymore, but they make dandy wiping rags. " "I also heard you used my curtains. Even without a pillow or fluffy blanket in the bed, a baby on their stomach can get stuck face-down and not be able to move their head to the side to get air, leading to suffocation.? Mini Blinds and CurtainsJust as with wall hangers and pictures, it is very important not to ever place a baby?s bed near a window with mini blind or curtains.
" "They`re not much good for curtains anymore," Dad said. Make Simple Curtains and Valance for any Window By Robin Hall Making a quick set of curtains and a valance is something that you can do even if you dont have much sewing experience.
Make ?short? rooms tall using window-to-floor curtains or draperies in contrast to short furniture.Traditional interior design includes MANY alternatives to window coverings that will fit any home. For example, just use a simple leaf outline rather than showing every vein in the leaf as it is depicted in the curtains.
Thursday, August 23, 2007
Show Off Those Curtain Rods
By Ciara McNamara
Curtain rods come in as many different styles and materials as
fabric curtains. They can make or break the appearance of your
window depending on how you hang them and how they are finished
off. Knowing what you can do with the curtain rod will give you
some decorating ideas you may not have thought of before.
Anatomy of a Curtain Rod
To start the curtain rod consists of three main parts. There is
the pole part that holds the fabric, then finials which cap off
the ends of the poles, and the brackets that mount the rod to
the wall. Each part can be strictly utilitarian or add a
decorative element.
Some curtain poles are adjustable. They are made of two parts
that slide into one another so the pole can be lengthened or
shortened. This is a good design feature if you decide you want
to change the appearance of the width of the window by expanding
the window dressing.
The finials are end pieces that can be very ornate and made of
many different materials. Some are made of blown glass while
others are carved wood. The finials need to match the rod part
for a coordinated look. They can be changed out whenever you
want just a little updating to the window’s appearance without
having to change everything.
The brackets on a curtain rod set can be hidden by the pole or
a part of the décor. When the brackets are decorative they can
stick out from the wall and allow two rods to feed through them.
This would be used to create a layered look with sheer fabric
closest to the window and a heavier fabric on top of it.
Hanging Rods to Create New Looks
Many people make the mistake of hanging rods too high or too
low. There really isn’t a wrong way, but perhaps a better way.
For example, if you have extremely high ceilings and the windows
don’t go very close to the top of the wall, you can create
longer looking windows by hanging your curtain rods closer to
the ceiling. You will need more length in your drapes of course,
but it will make your windows much taller.
Likewise, you can create more width to your window by hanging
the drapery wider. You still will not want the edge of the
window to show, so to create the illusion of greater width, you
can bring fabric right to the edge of the window and then go out
as wide as you like. It will appear as if the drapes had been
drawn in part way on a very large window.
Seeing Double and Triple
Curtain rods come in many styles but also have built in double
and triple rods. These rod styles are great for more layering.
You can hang sheers and drapes (
http://www.curtains-drapes-coverings.com/drapes.html ) , or two
different fabric patterns. The layering gives a rich look that
can also serve as insulation for older windows that may allow a
draft to come in.
Curtain rods can be used on more than just windows too. They
can support decorative fabric wall coverings. These types of
drapes that cover an ugly wall and can warm up a room and help
with controlling noise. There really is no limit to the uses for
curtain rods in decorating. Your imagination can put them
anywhere.
About the Author: Ciara McNamara publishes many articles for
http://www.curtains-drapes-coverings.com which is an internet
site for decorating information. Ciara is helping people finding
the best solutions for curtain rods (
http://www.curtains-drapes-coverings.com/curtain-rods.html ) and
home improvement topics.
Source: http://www.isnare.com
Curtain rods come in as many different styles and materials as
fabric curtains. They can make or break the appearance of your
window depending on how you hang them and how they are finished
off. Knowing what you can do with the curtain rod will give you
some decorating ideas you may not have thought of before.
Anatomy of a Curtain Rod
To start the curtain rod consists of three main parts. There is
the pole part that holds the fabric, then finials which cap off
the ends of the poles, and the brackets that mount the rod to
the wall. Each part can be strictly utilitarian or add a
decorative element.
Some curtain poles are adjustable. They are made of two parts
that slide into one another so the pole can be lengthened or
shortened. This is a good design feature if you decide you want
to change the appearance of the width of the window by expanding
the window dressing.
The finials are end pieces that can be very ornate and made of
many different materials. Some are made of blown glass while
others are carved wood. The finials need to match the rod part
for a coordinated look. They can be changed out whenever you
want just a little updating to the window’s appearance without
having to change everything.
The brackets on a curtain rod set can be hidden by the pole or
a part of the décor. When the brackets are decorative they can
stick out from the wall and allow two rods to feed through them.
This would be used to create a layered look with sheer fabric
closest to the window and a heavier fabric on top of it.
Hanging Rods to Create New Looks
Many people make the mistake of hanging rods too high or too
low. There really isn’t a wrong way, but perhaps a better way.
For example, if you have extremely high ceilings and the windows
don’t go very close to the top of the wall, you can create
longer looking windows by hanging your curtain rods closer to
the ceiling. You will need more length in your drapes of course,
but it will make your windows much taller.
Likewise, you can create more width to your window by hanging
the drapery wider. You still will not want the edge of the
window to show, so to create the illusion of greater width, you
can bring fabric right to the edge of the window and then go out
as wide as you like. It will appear as if the drapes had been
drawn in part way on a very large window.
Seeing Double and Triple
Curtain rods come in many styles but also have built in double
and triple rods. These rod styles are great for more layering.
You can hang sheers and drapes (
http://www.curtains-drapes-coverings.com/drapes.html ) , or two
different fabric patterns. The layering gives a rich look that
can also serve as insulation for older windows that may allow a
draft to come in.
Curtain rods can be used on more than just windows too. They
can support decorative fabric wall coverings. These types of
drapes that cover an ugly wall and can warm up a room and help
with controlling noise. There really is no limit to the uses for
curtain rods in decorating. Your imagination can put them
anywhere.
About the Author: Ciara McNamara publishes many articles for
http://www.curtains-drapes-coverings.com which is an internet
site for decorating information. Ciara is helping people finding
the best solutions for curtain rods (
http://www.curtains-drapes-coverings.com/curtain-rods.html ) and
home improvement topics.
Source: http://www.isnare.com
Sunday, August 19, 2007
Without Drapes is It Curtains?
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Karen_Hughes]Karen Hughes
Curtains form the most important part of your home décor. Imagine a house without curtains. It is like a man without clothes or a flower without petals or trees without leaves. It will be an incomplete home. Curtains give your house a furnished look. They dress up your windows and, most important of all, they protect your house from sunlight and looks from unwanted people into your family peace. Curtains come in a variety of fabrics and designs. You can get normal curtains for your house or expensive designer ones. From silk to cottons to satins to nets to lace to nylon you name it and you will get it, in all fabrics, simple to rich, thick to diaphanous, anything that you want.
Shower Curtains
As the name suggests, shower curtains are used in the bathroom around the shower area to keep the water from getting all over the bathroom floor. This helps you to keep your bathroom dry and clean at all times. Different synthetic or natural materials determine the different types of shower curtains. Polyester and vinyl shower curtains are waterproof and inexpensive. If you have a bathroom which is luxurious this type of curtain will not match the décor of your room. Curtains made of cotton and linen looks plush and elegant but they mildew if they get damp. You can combine vinyl with cotton for attractiveness and for utility. Vinyl shower curtains come in every imaginable color, pattern and motif. This makes them adaptable to all kinds of styles from the bathroom of your master bedroom to guest’s room to children’s bathroom.
Popular themes include rubber ducks, fish, sea shells, sail boats, balloons, clouds, or any simple patterned design. The background can be clear, so you can keep an eye on your children when they shower, or it can be an opaque shade. The advantage of vinyl and polyester curtains is that they keep the water inside the tub instead of it splashing onto the ground. Fabric shower curtains are permanent additions to the functions and décor of a bath room. Some are designed to match towels and bathmats. Some textiles have been treated with stain resistors and waterproof coatings to combat moisture, as they are more likely to absorb splashes. Hemp shower curtains provide the best of both worlds: cotton and vinyl, the heavy fabric is made of plant fiber like linen or cotton. However hemp is naturally antibacterial and anti fungal so it resists mildew and soap stains.
Kitchen Curtains
Kitchens have come a long way from the time when necessity and safety dictated that they be located outside the home. Through the years kitchens have evolved based on the needs and demands of the family and today era kitchens must be multifunctional. The most important thing while doing curtains for the kitchen is that these curtains should not obscure the entire kitchen concept. It is important to make sure that the cabinets and counter tops are in perfect coordination with the curtains you choose for your kitchen. When you choose the color for your kitchen curtains make sure you do that on a sunny day to make sure that it gives you the look you want. It is best not to choose synthetic or nylon kitchen curtains for safety reasons. Natural fabric like cotton is usually recommended for kitchen windows.
Window Curtains
A house with big windows and beautiful curtains in bright hues is everyone’s dream. Window curtains come in all materials, colors and textures. You will have a myriad of designs to choose your window curtains from. There are a few things you should keep in mind when you go to select curtains for your window: the color of the curtain should compliment the color of the wall of the room, if your room is small you should go for light colors and if the room is big you should for dark colors as it makes your room look spacious yet compact.
The sunnier side of your house should have thick curtains to block the sunlight from heating up your room too much and on the other side you can always use fabrics like net or lace. The design that you choose completely depends on which room you are doing the curtains in. If it is the kid’s room then you should choose something like cartoons or alphabets or numbers or animals etc. If it’s the master bedroom then the curtains should add to the grace of the room, you can have big motifs or designs and the guest room curtains should be subtle and in warm colors. The design completely depends on your liking but you should also remember that the functionality of the curtain should be maintained.
Country Curtains
Window coverings come in so many different varieties today that it may be hard to decide on what you want. The decision may come down to personal taste but you can help yourself by doing some research on different varieties of window coverings. One popular type of window covering is the roman shade which is also known as country curtains. They are flat shades with dowels slotted horizontally up the back so they can be pulled up into soft horizontal folds. Roman shades give a clean modern look to your window space.
Curtain rods
No matter how good your curtains are, without curtain rods you just cannot put them in place. Curtain rods hold the curtains from the window top and let the curtain fall to its full length. You should first determine if you want to mount your curtain rods on the window casing or on the wall. You can choose the color of the rods to match the color of the wall or the curtains. The brackets that you choose for the rods can range from simple to intricate ones. The choice is completely yours and make sure you choose the best keeping in mind both your taste and your pocket.
Karen Hughes is an interior decor consultant. Get further curtain and drapes
ideas at ==> [http://www.drapes-n-curtains.com]Drapes'n'Curtains - this is your first stop for information about Curtains and Drapes.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Karen_Hughes http://EzineArticles.com/?Without-Drapes-is-It-Curtains?&id=165313
Curtains form the most important part of your home décor. Imagine a house without curtains. It is like a man without clothes or a flower without petals or trees without leaves. It will be an incomplete home. Curtains give your house a furnished look. They dress up your windows and, most important of all, they protect your house from sunlight and looks from unwanted people into your family peace. Curtains come in a variety of fabrics and designs. You can get normal curtains for your house or expensive designer ones. From silk to cottons to satins to nets to lace to nylon you name it and you will get it, in all fabrics, simple to rich, thick to diaphanous, anything that you want.
Shower Curtains
As the name suggests, shower curtains are used in the bathroom around the shower area to keep the water from getting all over the bathroom floor. This helps you to keep your bathroom dry and clean at all times. Different synthetic or natural materials determine the different types of shower curtains. Polyester and vinyl shower curtains are waterproof and inexpensive. If you have a bathroom which is luxurious this type of curtain will not match the décor of your room. Curtains made of cotton and linen looks plush and elegant but they mildew if they get damp. You can combine vinyl with cotton for attractiveness and for utility. Vinyl shower curtains come in every imaginable color, pattern and motif. This makes them adaptable to all kinds of styles from the bathroom of your master bedroom to guest’s room to children’s bathroom.
Popular themes include rubber ducks, fish, sea shells, sail boats, balloons, clouds, or any simple patterned design. The background can be clear, so you can keep an eye on your children when they shower, or it can be an opaque shade. The advantage of vinyl and polyester curtains is that they keep the water inside the tub instead of it splashing onto the ground. Fabric shower curtains are permanent additions to the functions and décor of a bath room. Some are designed to match towels and bathmats. Some textiles have been treated with stain resistors and waterproof coatings to combat moisture, as they are more likely to absorb splashes. Hemp shower curtains provide the best of both worlds: cotton and vinyl, the heavy fabric is made of plant fiber like linen or cotton. However hemp is naturally antibacterial and anti fungal so it resists mildew and soap stains.
Kitchen Curtains
Kitchens have come a long way from the time when necessity and safety dictated that they be located outside the home. Through the years kitchens have evolved based on the needs and demands of the family and today era kitchens must be multifunctional. The most important thing while doing curtains for the kitchen is that these curtains should not obscure the entire kitchen concept. It is important to make sure that the cabinets and counter tops are in perfect coordination with the curtains you choose for your kitchen. When you choose the color for your kitchen curtains make sure you do that on a sunny day to make sure that it gives you the look you want. It is best not to choose synthetic or nylon kitchen curtains for safety reasons. Natural fabric like cotton is usually recommended for kitchen windows.
Window Curtains
A house with big windows and beautiful curtains in bright hues is everyone’s dream. Window curtains come in all materials, colors and textures. You will have a myriad of designs to choose your window curtains from. There are a few things you should keep in mind when you go to select curtains for your window: the color of the curtain should compliment the color of the wall of the room, if your room is small you should go for light colors and if the room is big you should for dark colors as it makes your room look spacious yet compact.
The sunnier side of your house should have thick curtains to block the sunlight from heating up your room too much and on the other side you can always use fabrics like net or lace. The design that you choose completely depends on which room you are doing the curtains in. If it is the kid’s room then you should choose something like cartoons or alphabets or numbers or animals etc. If it’s the master bedroom then the curtains should add to the grace of the room, you can have big motifs or designs and the guest room curtains should be subtle and in warm colors. The design completely depends on your liking but you should also remember that the functionality of the curtain should be maintained.
Country Curtains
Window coverings come in so many different varieties today that it may be hard to decide on what you want. The decision may come down to personal taste but you can help yourself by doing some research on different varieties of window coverings. One popular type of window covering is the roman shade which is also known as country curtains. They are flat shades with dowels slotted horizontally up the back so they can be pulled up into soft horizontal folds. Roman shades give a clean modern look to your window space.
Curtain rods
No matter how good your curtains are, without curtain rods you just cannot put them in place. Curtain rods hold the curtains from the window top and let the curtain fall to its full length. You should first determine if you want to mount your curtain rods on the window casing or on the wall. You can choose the color of the rods to match the color of the wall or the curtains. The brackets that you choose for the rods can range from simple to intricate ones. The choice is completely yours and make sure you choose the best keeping in mind both your taste and your pocket.
Karen Hughes is an interior decor consultant. Get further curtain and drapes
ideas at ==> [http://www.drapes-n-curtains.com]Drapes'n'Curtains - this is your first stop for information about Curtains and Drapes.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Karen_Hughes http://EzineArticles.com/?Without-Drapes-is-It-Curtains?&id=165313
Thursday, August 16, 2007
Drapes & Curtains = Style and Energy Savings
By Bridgette Bodine
Draperies are the quintessential and classic way to decorate your windows thereby adding elegance and flair to all decors. But, you now have to think about more than just the look of your window treatments. Energy efficiency is a huge issue in today’s energy conscious times. Even if global warming doesn’t scare you, keeping the cost of utilities down is every household’s challenge. Adding drapes or curtains is a practical way to help your home stay cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Drapes and curtains can significantly lower your energy bills while using fewer of the earths precious resources.
Pacific Gas & Electric states that approximately 16% of all heat in a room escapes through windows. Keeping your drapes or curtains closed during the day also keeps out unwanted heat and sunlight that can fade carpeting and furniture. Opening drapes or curtains on cold days lets extra solar heat into the room and then by closing them at night you can retain warmth. If you want your drapes/curtains to accomplish both style and efficiency, use a thicker fabric and insulate the drapes with lining. In addition, lined drapes will reduce and suppress outside noise. They also last 10-15 years longer than unlined drapes !
Lined drapes or curtains offer more than just thermal efficiency. Lined drapes or curtains hang better for graceful full folds. Pleats and folds hang better with the added weight an insulated lining gives them. The luxurious effect on pleating cannot be matched without lining regardless of the drapery fabric used.
A Drape or curtain style can be dramatically adjusted to fit your rooms needs. For exciting information on energy saving drapes check out sites like (www.factorydirectdrapes.com) and use the free “Virtual Room Designer” to try different stunning drape and valance styles. It allows you to match the wall, flooring, and furniture colors in your home to drape fabrics so you can see exactly how it would look before you purchase it.
Often, the cost of lined drapes and curtains compared to unlined drapes and curtains is minimal if you consider the savings you will receive with utilities expense reduction. Buying direct from the factory or manufacturer will also save you the costly 50-80% mark-up many retail stores and decorators add onto the product cost.
For more information on insulated draperies or to use this free design tool go to http://www.factorydirectdrapes.com
If you would like to use this article in your newsletter or website, permission is granted, as long as the entire article, including the author bio at the bottom and all links, are intact. Notification is desired, but not required, at Bridgette@americandrape.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bridgette_Bodine http://EzineArticles.com/?Drapes-and-Curtains-=-Style-and-Energy-Savings&id=281008
Draperies are the quintessential and classic way to decorate your windows thereby adding elegance and flair to all decors. But, you now have to think about more than just the look of your window treatments. Energy efficiency is a huge issue in today’s energy conscious times. Even if global warming doesn’t scare you, keeping the cost of utilities down is every household’s challenge. Adding drapes or curtains is a practical way to help your home stay cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Drapes and curtains can significantly lower your energy bills while using fewer of the earths precious resources.
Pacific Gas & Electric states that approximately 16% of all heat in a room escapes through windows. Keeping your drapes or curtains closed during the day also keeps out unwanted heat and sunlight that can fade carpeting and furniture. Opening drapes or curtains on cold days lets extra solar heat into the room and then by closing them at night you can retain warmth. If you want your drapes/curtains to accomplish both style and efficiency, use a thicker fabric and insulate the drapes with lining. In addition, lined drapes will reduce and suppress outside noise. They also last 10-15 years longer than unlined drapes !
Lined drapes or curtains offer more than just thermal efficiency. Lined drapes or curtains hang better for graceful full folds. Pleats and folds hang better with the added weight an insulated lining gives them. The luxurious effect on pleating cannot be matched without lining regardless of the drapery fabric used.
A Drape or curtain style can be dramatically adjusted to fit your rooms needs. For exciting information on energy saving drapes check out sites like (www.factorydirectdrapes.com) and use the free “Virtual Room Designer” to try different stunning drape and valance styles. It allows you to match the wall, flooring, and furniture colors in your home to drape fabrics so you can see exactly how it would look before you purchase it.
Often, the cost of lined drapes and curtains compared to unlined drapes and curtains is minimal if you consider the savings you will receive with utilities expense reduction. Buying direct from the factory or manufacturer will also save you the costly 50-80% mark-up many retail stores and decorators add onto the product cost.
For more information on insulated draperies or to use this free design tool go to http://www.factorydirectdrapes.com
If you would like to use this article in your newsletter or website, permission is granted, as long as the entire article, including the author bio at the bottom and all links, are intact. Notification is desired, but not required, at Bridgette@americandrape.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bridgette_Bodine http://EzineArticles.com/?Drapes-and-Curtains-=-Style-and-Energy-Savings&id=281008
Having Custom Drapes Made
By Gayle Goerdel
When you have custom drapes made for your home, you have the ability to choose the styles and the colors that you want in a drape. While buying ready made drapes may seem like the easier and more affordable way to go, when you go into a store to buy drapes that are ready to hang, you are often faced with making sacrifices because the department store drapes hardly ever have just what you are looking for.
Custom drapes are great when you are looking for a certain style and color in the same drapes. Where as when you shop at the department store for your drapes, you are going to find that they may not have the size you need in the colors that you want. Or perhaps they do not have the color you are looking for in the style of curtain that you are wanting. Which will end up causing you to go home with drapes you are not so crazy about, but yet you need something that will cover your window. Do not settle for less when you are not finding what you want. You can find someone that will make your drapes for you.
If you know someone that does custom sewing, you might want to ask them about making your custom drapes for you. You will be able to choose the fabric as well as the style of the drapes, and get just what you are looking for and wanting to cover your windows. You will be able to choose trims and tassels if you like for your drapes, and can have them made to your specifications. The person that you choose to make your drapes for you, just might want to sketch them out first to be sure that you are both on the same page as far as the style of drapes is concerned.
You might also find that the person that is making your custom drapes will want to come and personally take measurement of your windows. This will ensure that you will have drapes that fit and are the right size for your windows. It will also help if you have a style hanging in your home already that you like, and want the person making the drapes to copy. Any ideas that you can give about the style you are looking for will help them in the process of making your drapes to your specifications. You may even want to flip through some magazines and cut out pictures of the styles that are similar to what you are looking for.
When you have custom drapes made, you have the ability to have drapes like no one else has. Make sure that you choose someone that is a professional custom sewer, and can actually do the job that you are looking for.
Gayle is an independent interior designer in his local community. He had worked in a local fabric store for more than 10 years before starting his own venture. Currently, he specialized further by jumping into the home curtains industry. At his weekly updated website, http://www.anycurtains.com]http://www.anycurtains.com, he shows home owners simple ways to use your curtains to spruce up the look of your interior. Visit the curtain ideas website to learn more.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gayle_Goerdel http://EzineArticles.com/?Having-Custom-Drapes-Made&id=279883
When you have custom drapes made for your home, you have the ability to choose the styles and the colors that you want in a drape. While buying ready made drapes may seem like the easier and more affordable way to go, when you go into a store to buy drapes that are ready to hang, you are often faced with making sacrifices because the department store drapes hardly ever have just what you are looking for.
Custom drapes are great when you are looking for a certain style and color in the same drapes. Where as when you shop at the department store for your drapes, you are going to find that they may not have the size you need in the colors that you want. Or perhaps they do not have the color you are looking for in the style of curtain that you are wanting. Which will end up causing you to go home with drapes you are not so crazy about, but yet you need something that will cover your window. Do not settle for less when you are not finding what you want. You can find someone that will make your drapes for you.
If you know someone that does custom sewing, you might want to ask them about making your custom drapes for you. You will be able to choose the fabric as well as the style of the drapes, and get just what you are looking for and wanting to cover your windows. You will be able to choose trims and tassels if you like for your drapes, and can have them made to your specifications. The person that you choose to make your drapes for you, just might want to sketch them out first to be sure that you are both on the same page as far as the style of drapes is concerned.
You might also find that the person that is making your custom drapes will want to come and personally take measurement of your windows. This will ensure that you will have drapes that fit and are the right size for your windows. It will also help if you have a style hanging in your home already that you like, and want the person making the drapes to copy. Any ideas that you can give about the style you are looking for will help them in the process of making your drapes to your specifications. You may even want to flip through some magazines and cut out pictures of the styles that are similar to what you are looking for.
When you have custom drapes made, you have the ability to have drapes like no one else has. Make sure that you choose someone that is a professional custom sewer, and can actually do the job that you are looking for.
Gayle is an independent interior designer in his local community. He had worked in a local fabric store for more than 10 years before starting his own venture. Currently, he specialized further by jumping into the home curtains industry. At his weekly updated website, http://www.anycurtains.com]http://www.anycurtains.com, he shows home owners simple ways to use your curtains to spruce up the look of your interior. Visit the curtain ideas website to learn more.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gayle_Goerdel http://EzineArticles.com/?Having-Custom-Drapes-Made&id=279883
Monday, August 13, 2007
Selecting Drapes And Other Window Coverings
By Vince J. Paxton
If you’re thinking of changing the look of your window coverings, there are a lot of things to consider. With the vast array of choices in the marketplace, it’s easy to lose sight of your goals, and become overwhelmed with all the options.
The first thing to think about when planning a change in window treatments is what you’d like them to convey. You can use them to create any mood, from casual to formal. Once you decide what you’d like the feel of the room to be, there are a few more considerations:
1) What colors do I want to use? Bright colors can really change the look and feel of a room, while light pastels can help provide a quiet, serene feel. Consider the size of the room in question. Bolder colors can make a small room appear smaller.
2) What fabrics do I like? Mixing fabrics can be a great way to add interest and depth to your windows. Layering velvet over silk can create a regal, formal look, while a lightweight cotton over gingham can lay the groundwork for a casual, carefree look. Heavier fabrics look great accented with lighter weight fabrics, such as an ornate brocade paired with a sheer taffeta.
3) What patterns do I like? With the wide variety of fabrics available, you can choose from simple, informal patterns on cotton, or intricately embroidered and beaded patterns on silk. You can create visual interest by choosing eye-catching patterns that accent the room. Sometimes patterns that don’t sound like they would complement each other work very well together. For example, you can pair stripes with checks, or even put different patterns together for a fresh look. The key is to find a common bond. For example, wide navy stripes would work well with a pattern sprinkled with smaller navy dots.
4) Will I be able to use window treatments to unify the room? Maybe your windows don’t “match”. Perhaps they’re all different shapes and sizes. They could be at varying heights on the wall. You can use valances and drapes to visually change the heights, widths and shapes of the windows.
You don’t have to make over all the windows at once, and you certainly don’t have to have the same window treatments forever. There will come a time when you’ll feel like you’re ready for a change. You’ll get new furniture. Perhaps you’ll embark on a home repair project, and want to add new window treatments to complete the look. As you get more experience in choosing window design options, you’ll gain confidence that will help you to incorporate new ideas into your home.
About the Author: Vince Paxton published for the most part for http://www.curtains-drapes-coverings.com , a web page with information about curtains . His contributions on window coverings can be found on his website .
Source: www.isnare.com
If you’re thinking of changing the look of your window coverings, there are a lot of things to consider. With the vast array of choices in the marketplace, it’s easy to lose sight of your goals, and become overwhelmed with all the options.
The first thing to think about when planning a change in window treatments is what you’d like them to convey. You can use them to create any mood, from casual to formal. Once you decide what you’d like the feel of the room to be, there are a few more considerations:
1) What colors do I want to use? Bright colors can really change the look and feel of a room, while light pastels can help provide a quiet, serene feel. Consider the size of the room in question. Bolder colors can make a small room appear smaller.
2) What fabrics do I like? Mixing fabrics can be a great way to add interest and depth to your windows. Layering velvet over silk can create a regal, formal look, while a lightweight cotton over gingham can lay the groundwork for a casual, carefree look. Heavier fabrics look great accented with lighter weight fabrics, such as an ornate brocade paired with a sheer taffeta.
3) What patterns do I like? With the wide variety of fabrics available, you can choose from simple, informal patterns on cotton, or intricately embroidered and beaded patterns on silk. You can create visual interest by choosing eye-catching patterns that accent the room. Sometimes patterns that don’t sound like they would complement each other work very well together. For example, you can pair stripes with checks, or even put different patterns together for a fresh look. The key is to find a common bond. For example, wide navy stripes would work well with a pattern sprinkled with smaller navy dots.
4) Will I be able to use window treatments to unify the room? Maybe your windows don’t “match”. Perhaps they’re all different shapes and sizes. They could be at varying heights on the wall. You can use valances and drapes to visually change the heights, widths and shapes of the windows.
You don’t have to make over all the windows at once, and you certainly don’t have to have the same window treatments forever. There will come a time when you’ll feel like you’re ready for a change. You’ll get new furniture. Perhaps you’ll embark on a home repair project, and want to add new window treatments to complete the look. As you get more experience in choosing window design options, you’ll gain confidence that will help you to incorporate new ideas into your home.
About the Author: Vince Paxton published for the most part for http://www.curtains-drapes-coverings.com , a web page with information about curtains . His contributions on window coverings can be found on his website .
Source: www.isnare.com
Monday, August 6, 2007
How To Choose Your Drapes
By John Ca. Baker
A simple makeover of your window coverings can do a great deal to update your interior decorations and improve the entire feel of your property. Changing your drapes or shades as part of a home repair project can have an astonishing impact with very little effort. There are a few things to consider before your begin, and a few of these are mentioned below.
Don’t be tempted to tackle more than one room at a time. We all know the feeling of moving into a new home that you love, but you hate the existing décor. Slow down. You need to consider each room individually to create a really great mood and atmosphere. Taking on the whole house in one go will take too much energy, and your decorations will become dull and uninspired.
Understand your requirements for window coverings. Write down measurements for every window in the house. What do you need the coverings to do? Do you need to create light and space, or do you feel you have too much. Are your windows too large, too small, or at odd levels? The right choice of drapes, blinds or shutters can solve all these problems. What are the practical considerations to take into account, particularly for bathrooms and kitchens?
Seek out ideas and advice from friends, family and on the internet. Whatever the state, or shape of your windows, you can be sure someone has found a great window covering to perfectly suit it. Magazines are also a great place to seek inspiration for truly different and stylish window coverings. Take your time, and don’t just buy the first thing you see. You will have to live with your design choices for a long time so they shouldn’t be decided in a hurry.
If you are unsure about what you want you can build up your window dressing in stages. Begin with a simply colored blind or shade to match the rest of your room décor, and provide the necessary privacy and light control. At a later stage you can add curtains or drapes on a decorative curtain rod. Accessories such as elaborate finials or tie backs will be the final phase.
About the Author: John C. Baker repeatedly writes informative papers on areas similar to drapes and curtains. You might come across his work on window coverings over at http://www.curtains-drapes-coverings.com .
Source: www.isnare.com
A simple makeover of your window coverings can do a great deal to update your interior decorations and improve the entire feel of your property. Changing your drapes or shades as part of a home repair project can have an astonishing impact with very little effort. There are a few things to consider before your begin, and a few of these are mentioned below.
Don’t be tempted to tackle more than one room at a time. We all know the feeling of moving into a new home that you love, but you hate the existing décor. Slow down. You need to consider each room individually to create a really great mood and atmosphere. Taking on the whole house in one go will take too much energy, and your decorations will become dull and uninspired.
Understand your requirements for window coverings. Write down measurements for every window in the house. What do you need the coverings to do? Do you need to create light and space, or do you feel you have too much. Are your windows too large, too small, or at odd levels? The right choice of drapes, blinds or shutters can solve all these problems. What are the practical considerations to take into account, particularly for bathrooms and kitchens?
Seek out ideas and advice from friends, family and on the internet. Whatever the state, or shape of your windows, you can be sure someone has found a great window covering to perfectly suit it. Magazines are also a great place to seek inspiration for truly different and stylish window coverings. Take your time, and don’t just buy the first thing you see. You will have to live with your design choices for a long time so they shouldn’t be decided in a hurry.
If you are unsure about what you want you can build up your window dressing in stages. Begin with a simply colored blind or shade to match the rest of your room décor, and provide the necessary privacy and light control. At a later stage you can add curtains or drapes on a decorative curtain rod. Accessories such as elaborate finials or tie backs will be the final phase.
About the Author: John C. Baker repeatedly writes informative papers on areas similar to drapes and curtains. You might come across his work on window coverings over at http://www.curtains-drapes-coverings.com .
Source: www.isnare.com
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