Article:
Get creative with window coverings
By Shelley Anderson
The Journal Newspapers - January 2007
Window coverings can be a functional and decorative element in your home. Privacy and light control are two major factors in selecting blinds and draperies. Your initial purchase of window coverings will usually be blinds, but this doesn’t mean you have to resign yourself to using mini blinds. Today, there are a wide variety of products which will enhance your interiors and give you the privacy or light control you’re looking for.
There are room darkening and blackout products for bedrooms and media rooms. Also, there are now blinds and shades that operate without the long cords which can be safety hazards. Some of the blinds have options for operating from the bottom up or the top down. You can motorize almost any type of covering, which will be operated with a remote control.
Window coverings can be decorative as well, giving individual style to your home. The process of selecting custom window treatments may seem overwhelming, however by enlisting the services of an experienced designer, the process can be enjoyable and produce beautiful window treatments you will enjoy for many years to come.
The standard pinch pleat drapery of the past is history. Instead of the French pleat, try a goblet or butterfly pleat. You may want to consider a more casual, relaxed header on your draperies by eliminating the crinoline. Often you see drapery panels on each side of a window instead of full coverage traversing draperies. The use of decorative hardware is a must with this look.
Another popular item is fabric roman shades. Again, there are many different ways to make these types of window coverings. Pleats can be made at the front and the back of the shade for a neater folded shade when pulled up to open.
Top treatments are a great way to add color and design to your interiors without overwhelming your room. They can be simple or extravagant. A clean flat valance will enhance more contemporary design. This type of window treatment is also a great way to show off a fabulous fabric. A swag treatment is more formal and will be seen in more traditional interiors.
Multiple layers are used when function and beauty is required. Try a roman shade with blackout lining for the function of light control and add a pair of casual drapery panels in a coordinating fabric to soften the look.
Customize your window treatments with trim. Add tassel fringe to the leading edge of drapery panels, or to the hem edge of swags. Try decorative cord at the top edge of a flat valance or cornice. When creating your custom window treatments, don’t stop short of that ‘wow’ factor.
Shelley Anderson has been creating interiors in the greater Seattle area since 1990.You may contact her at (206) 719-6814 or email her at
shelley.anderson@shelleyandersoninteriors.com.