November 02, 2008
Window Covering Ideas
Ideas for creating a unique window covering
Window treatments can be a big asset when portraying a theme and their colors and prints can complete the ambiance you are trying to create. Jungle print curtains will bring a safari feel to your home. Most window covering ideas are based upon using a standard shade or blind or an interesting designed curtain, but incorporating an added piece of fabric or molding aroung it to make look different. These types addons should look like they are part of the wall or window. Think of it as if you are trying to frame the window to make what ever view you see through like part of a painting or portrait.
Teddy bear blinds will give a child’s bedroom a special feel. Sheers with a colored liner can add a very elegant tone to the mood you are presenting in the living room.
Planning unique window coverings carefully can make a wonderful difference to the interior of your home.
Frame a crocheted doily or lace handkerchief between Plexiglas panels. Glue on a braid border, then hang in a window.
Use paint and textiles to transform a plain white sheet into a charming curtain. First paint on rectangular shapes; then stencil a leaf or other simple design in the middle of each rectangle.
Slip a curtain rod through the hem of the sheet and hang it up to instantly enliven a room.
Turn a table runner into a valance: Attach wooden rings to the edge and hang it on a rod installed above the existing curtain rod.
Drape voile that is twice the length of the window over a curtain rod (sew hems or edge with iron-on webbing) and knot it in front for easy, casual chic.
Re-invent the concept of café curtains: Cut a wool blanket to fit the window. Punch grommet holes near the top edge. Thread picture wire through the holes from one side of the window to the other. Twist the wire onto funky knobs; attach to screws in the frame.
Craft unique shutters from wooden frames and tin ceiling tiles. Build frames to fit the window niche and glue in tin insets to fill.
Swag your windows in the spring with silk roping, floral garlands and strands of beading. In fall, use silk leaves and autumnal colors; in winter, invest in silver and gold trimmings.
Set sail with blue canvas curtains. Tie them with nautical roping to boat cleats mounted on the wall.
Turn a crocheted tablecloth into a romantic window treatment. Hang it on a rod using attractive shower curtain hooks slipped through the holes.
Build a cornice and cover it with fabric to coordinate with drapes.
Cut a chain of paper dolls (or stars, animals or fish) from colorful cotton and hang over curtains in a kid's room.
Install shoji panels in a niche to filter light and add oriental ambience.
Use a branch, oar, fishing rod, pool cue or hockey stick as a curtain rod.
As you can see there are numerous ways you can cover a window. There is probably something on a shelf that is stored away that you could use that won't cost anything to use except your time. These are easy ideas that you can use as a unique window covering.
If you would like to know where to buy blinds and shades to update the windows in your home go back to our main site decormotif.com window treatments to learn more about window coverings. We have also started to add to our do it yourself section on decorating, home repairs and renovations. The most popular brands are by Bali, blinds galore, Hunter Douglas, Levolor, Comfortex, Graber and Kirsch. We have also started to add a Do it your self home revovation, repair and decorating section.
July 15, 2008
Window blind controls
When buying blinds think of the type of control you want
I am a huge fan of HunterDouglas window blinds. There selection in the different styles of window treatments is very good. What you don't normally hear about is the quality of the operating mechanisms for raising and lowering these window shades.
Just about every Hunter Douglas product provides standard or optional safety features, though some may offer more than others. Safety in window shades and blinds are an important feature. Many children a year are seriously hurt from the pull cords or the blind falling too quickly when it is lowered.
Having safe window coverings is a serious concern with the elderly and parents of small children or even pets.
Read more about a few of the latest safety features that hunterdouglas has installed on their blinds:
The safety tassel is designed to break open under pressure should a child or pet become entangled in the cord loop. This is a standard feature on all Hunter Douglas horizontal blinds. The cord tensioner is a specially designed cord weight with spring tension and brackets which improves the safety of the cord loop.
- A battery-operated remote control system allows you to raise or lower shades at the touch of a button, which means you don't have a need for cords. (this makes it an ideal choice for someone with arthritis or a disability that prevents them from stretching high) It's a perfect solution for hard-to-reach windows. A timer can be programmed to raise or lower shades at desired times, improving energy efficiency. All with the touch of one button.
- The touch system allows you to raise or lower blinds with a single touch. This cordless system makes raising and lowering blinds and shades easier than ever. Push up to raise and pull down to lower. Your blinds or window shades stay right where you put them. No lift cords for a clean, uncluttered look. This system holds blinds and shades securely in any position - no constant adjusting, making it easy to raise your shades to an even height.
- Vertical blinds outfitted with a wand eliminate looped pull cords completely, replacing them with a wand that remains safely out of a child's reach. This is a really good system for patio doors or large vertical window blinds.
- The glide system is equipped with a single, retractable cord that remains at the same length whether the shade is raised or lowered. When the cords are moved to a slight angle, the shade gently lowers itself. This movement of the cord releases spring tension in a slow, controlled manner and the bottom rail floats down. To stop the lowering at any point, just move the cord to the opposite angle. To raise the shade, simply pull on the cord using short strokes. Each time you pull, the cord retracts to its original length. Constant cord length means there are never any long, dangling cords to detract from the appearance of the shade and also means increased safety for children and pets.
- The number one place to shop for blinds is at blindsgalore - click here
November 07, 2007
Room darkening blinds
I have found the most people that are looking room darkening blind are really looking for a black out shade. Because they have trouble sleeping or work nights and like a dark room during the day. Cellular shades are want you want if you are just looking to filter light coming in.
A heavy fabric window shade works really well for this. In the past I have used this style in my bedroom because I worked evening and graveyard shifts and it was hard to sleep during the day. What I found to be better was a roman shade and then a heavy room darkening blind over top, the idea came from my neighbor that works permanent night shifts. The pull shade is installed on the inside of the window frame and then the blind on the outside of the frame.
As an alternative, If you still want a curtain to blackout the light in a room go with a very dark fabric and a lining. The curtain lining will block out the light well enough. Your room won't be totally black unless you can fit it really tight around the window and you have dark paint or wallpaper on the walls.
I liked the idea of the shade combined with a blind better because, when I wasn't sleeping during the day the shade is pulled up and the blind then allows the light to come into the room and makes the room look a lot better.
Continue reading "Room darkening blinds" »
Posted on 10:25 PM | Details | Comments (0)September 25, 2007
Buy Curtains Online
I used to make my own curtains for my kitchen and bathroom windows because I thought it was cheaper and that I could do it better. Boy was I wrong! Buying your curtains online is so much easier and cheaper than making your own.
I normally like to change the color of my curtains every year and sometimes twice a year, spring and fall. Mostly because I like to decorate and have new colors showing up in my home all the time. What I do now is spend my money on high quality blinds which you can review here in our window shade section and then dress these up with nice decorative curtains. I even have several shower curtains that I switch around at different times of the year. I got my last pair of curtains at the bed&bath store for only 12 bucks and there is no way I could have made them this cheap. I now purchase all my curtains here including my bedroom curtains.
The only careful part I found is if you do buy curtains online, make darn sure you have measured properly. It is best to use two kinds of tape measures, one in inches and one in centimeters because some online stores give both and then you know exactly what size you need.
If you want to see all curtains on sale now instead of hearing me ramble on go here to this online store.
Bed and bath store online
August 16, 2007
Solar screens
What type of window covering do you use if have a nice view and don’t want to cover it up? This can be a problem, especially if you like the view from your kitchen window or like to see into your backyard.
The problem is the sun is too bright and you need a blind or roller shade to filter some of the light out. Solar screen or shades are the style of blind that you want to use. Solar window screens are ideal for when you want to see outside but still like a bit of privacy.
Solar screens are not like horizontal sheer shades (which are horizontal blinds, that come in panel strips). They are a roller shade that is semi opaque. These screens still improve energy efficiency by reducing solar heat gain and blocking the bright sunlight.
You can still mount these roller shades on the inside of the window or outside of the window frame. They can be purchased with openings from 1% to 14% openness and are made by Kirsch, Comfortex, Graber, Hunter Douglas and blindsgalore. The best colors for matching your décor and walls are grey, silver, linen and white.
As a privacy window blind they work very well in the living room they are ideal for the kitchen window if you like to see into your backyard.
If you buy these blinds with the reverse roll they don’t block out as much sun because they are further from the window. Standard roller shades always have the fabric hanging on the inside or closest to the glass. Someone decorators do like to use the reverse roll because when the shade is pulled down the fabric is flush with the wall and looks good. It does allow more sunlight to come through, so you would want to buy a tighter screen opening, no more than 5%.
They can be ordered with different pull mechanisms which you can review more details here about solar screens.
The higher percentage of openness the more you can see through the screen and the least amount of light is being blocked. This is one of the main reasons I like these blinds so much. I can buy 10% openness for my kitchen window, which doesn’t get the hot sun but has a nice view and the buy a 1% screen opening for the living room, which gets sun all afternoon. I have even seen creative decorators use these in offices where people want to see out of their office but still retain a certain amount of privacy.
May 05, 2007
Cleaning window blinds
How I Clean my blinds faster and easier
Mini blinds can be a pain to clean on a regular basis but there are ways to make it an easier job for you.
I have several windows that have blinds on them and the problem ones are always the mini blinds. For cleaning every couple of days what I do is when vacuuming I change over to the soft brush. I close the blinds and then give them a quick once over to get any dust that has collected there.
Ok stop laughing I don't really clean my blinds that often. I mean come on who has time. I only do this once a month in the summer and less in the winter.
Cleaning in the summer:
I take them down and place them outside. I make sure they are in the closed position before you lay them flat on the ground. I usually place a tarp on the grass if that is where I am going to clean them. A wood deck or patio is better because you don't have to rinse off the grass clippings.
I then take a bucket with soap and water and wipe them down with a large sponge. I use a sponge because the edges are sharp and a cloth sometimes doesn't protect my hands from getting nicked. After one side is cleaned I flip them over and then do the same thing. They usually need to be draped over something and then hosed off. I then hang them to dry in the sun.
Winter Cleaning:
This is done pretty much the same way, except I clean my blinds in the bath tub. Too cold and wet outside for me. I do spread a towel down in the tub so that I don't scratch it. This is also an easier way to clean wood, faux wood blinds, vinyl and aluminum blinds.
Continue reading "Cleaning window blinds" »
Posted on 11:03 PM | Details | Comments (0)April 18, 2007
Light filtering blinds
How do I allow more natural light into a room without it fading my furniture?
That's a good question and an important one in the interior design industry. We don't always want to have our blinds closed or slanted so much that we can't see outside. What you don't want to use in a living room or family room are room darkening blinds. Ideally you want to use a cellular blind that allows just the right amount of light into the room.
Or you can go to our main site window coverings and read more about window treatments including blinds, shades and curtains.
There are two ways of doing this - cellular shades and pleated shades. They are pull cord operated and can have the same color backing if you want. With cellular blinds you can choose the size of the pleat. Pleated shades come in a standard pleat size. Normally these blinds come with a white backing, with your choice of about 25 different colors to choose from. The colored fabric side is the the part that faces outside. These types of allow just the right amount of sunlight into a room.
January 25, 2007
About replacement windows
Replacement windows the first step in home renovations
Time to replace the windows in your home there are a few rules that you should think of. These general decorating tips can be applied to all types of windows whether they are new or vinyl replacement windows. Small windows give a sort of historic look, while large windows give your home a more contemporary feel, it defines the entire look and style of your home. Add these two together in a theme at suddenly you give your home a more romantic feel. Of course the style of siding you choose also plays into it. More glass space is an ideal choice for whatever look you are trying to achieve for your home or cottage.
If the purpose for remodeling is to let in more natural light you maybe surprised to know that you do not make your windows go higher. You need to extend the glass downwards towards the floor. It is the light reflecting off the floor that creates more natural light.
The number one choice for builders and home improvement projects is replacement vinyl windows. These types are less likely to sweat in the different climate changes. The price is no different and these are probably easier to get custom made. Using vinyl doesn't mean you still can't have wood frames and window sills. It has more to do with the outside appearance.
For a do it yourself project you can easily find books on how to replace windows in your home. It is fairly easy if you are not changing the size. Basically with out going into too much detail here: take out the inside window casings first and see what you are working with. Then peel back the outside trim and siding: Pry the nails or fasteners from the flange edges of the window and then carefully take out the frame.
The window is then put back in a nailed or screwed into the 2X4. The replacement siding butts right up to the edge of the trim and fitted securely. Replace the inside window casings with wood trim and you are pretty much finished. For a more detailed instructions head down to the nearest lumberyard or home depot and pick up a small book on how to complete your home remodeling project. Don't worry about painting because most manufactures offer windows that never need to be painted.
You can purchase vinyl windows at most hardware and home improvement stores where you live. You also buy from the internet but you need to keep in mind that you’ll have to pay shipping charges that will bring up the cost of your windows. Your best bet when it comes to picking new windows for your existing home, or for your home additions, is to visit a home improvement center to see what types of replacements you can choose from that are right for your needs. Don’t forget to take exact measurements so that you can get an exact quote for the types of windows that you need to buy. You’ll want to measure the outer frame as well as the inner frame so that the fit is precise and so that no mistakes are made in the ordering of your windows. In most cases you’ll need to custom order the windows that you need to buy unless you need a standard fit that the store carries in their inventory.
Having your windows custom made can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks depending on the size of the order and the complexity of the styling.
We recommend www.idealwindow.comas one of the better companies offering replacement windows. Make sure that if you’re installing them that you pr your helper are experienced enough to do the job or you may want to hire someone to do that installation for you. Many times that company that manufactures your replacement windows will be able to install them for you at little or no charge. Once you see what is involved it is pretty easy to replace that you can do it yourself. For other helpful home decor ideas and do it yourself home renovation and remodeling tips go here to home renovations section of our main home decor site.
October 16, 2006
Is it curtains for you
When decorating our windows at home, blinds just don't seem to be enough and many times we will want to soften up the look of a room. This is where you can shine by using different curtain styles and ideas.
You must first decide on whether you want an informal or formal look in the room. Noramly this is defined on whether the curtain has a lining or not. Living rooms are normaly given an informal look, where dining rooms are decorated using a formal theme.
Curtains can used either to decorate your windows or your view! Use different textured fabrics to bring color into a room, block the light, to filter and soften the light.
Mix and match your curtians with the color of your blinds. For instance, stand back and look at what type of furniture you have in the room, if you have a lot of small tables, or many sharp angles coming from shelves and furniture, you might want to go with side panel curtains tucked to the side to show off the color of your blinds. This will give the wall that your window is on a softer look and draw your eyes to the overall colors and not your blinds. It will also take out the sharp angles of your window and leave you with more of an impression of color.
- Curtains
- Kitchen Curtains
- One of the main benefits to adding curtain over a bathroom window is that it gives you more privacy. It will eliminate any shadows from showing through a frosted bathroom window.Bathroom Designs
- Custom Curtains
- Swag Curtain
- Tab top Curtains
Finding the right fabric is a matter of trial and error and texture, first choice may not drape as well as you wanted or come in a certain color. To help the process go more smoothly, follow these steps.
- Curtain Fabrics
- As decorative as they may be when hung properly, curtains are not much use without the correct Curtain Hardwareto hang them.
- Other Ideas
More information can be found here, curtains, curtains ideas, window decor
Continue reading "Is it curtains for you" »
Posted on 12:44 PM | Details | Comments (0)October 01, 2006
American made or imported blinds
It is no surprise that American factories in many industries are feeling pricing pressures from overseas countries, such as China and Mexico. With China's labor costs much lower compared to those in American blind factories, it is no wonder that window blinds imported from China have become so popular.
It is widely believed that China will continue with it's fast export growth next year, but the export growth rate is expected to drop to 21 per cent the following year, down 14 percentage points from this year.
Some negative factors will challenge China's export growth next year. Rising energy costs and raw material prices affect the international competitiveness of their products. Coal, electricity, and oil supply shortages, as well as limited transportation, hamper some export-oriented enterprises' production and the fulfillment of their contracts.
A growing number of anti-dumping and anti-subsidy charges launched by other countries also pose a challenge to China's exports.
It's a fact that most factories, while not buying complete blinds, still buy the slats and components from china and import them to the United States. American window blind factories assemble them and custom-make one blind at a time for individual consumers. These types of window treatments are the kind most retailers sell. These are higher in quality and have features and options not available on mass-produced blinds. Some of these options include more color choices, decorative cloth tapes, special easy lifting mechanisms, motorization, cordless (especially good for added safety), and top-down/bottom-up features.
Continue reading "American made or imported blinds" »
Posted on 10:21 PM | Details | Comments (0)September 15, 2006
Window Coverings from Levolor
Why buy your window coverings from Levolor?
This company in our opinion is the best window fashion company to deal with. Their selection and quality in all types of window fashions is so big you will be able to find everything you need without going anywhere else.
They even give you a list of the best places to buy their blinds by typing in your zip code so you can find the closest home decorating store nearest you.
They also have a virtual room decorator that is a huge help in designing a room if you are stuck on styles and colors. You won't have any problem choosing a window blind or shade.
Who IS Levolor:
Levolor, founded in 1914 and synonymous with the 1" mini-blind, remains the most recognized name in custom window coverings today. Levolor continues to offer great blinds and shades solutions in a wide variety of vertical, aluminum and wood blinds; cellular and woven wood shades; and sheer vertical window treatments. Levolor has recently expanded its product offering to include beautiful decorative drapery hardware, distributed nationally through home centers and other retailers. Today the company is a division of Newell-Rubbermaid. a global marketer of consumer and commercial products with 2003 sales of $7 billion. Levolor is headquartered in High Point, NC. Newell Rubbermaid is headquartered in Atlanta, GA and employs over 33,000 employees worldwide.
September 14, 2006
Discount Window Blinds
Save money without loosing the quality.
If you have ever gone out to buy a new window blind you will know that they can be a very expensive investment. High quality or custom made ones with all of their hardware are one of the most expensive window finishing treatments to be found. Lower priced blinds solves that problem for many consumers and they end up with products that suit their needs at a much lower cost. These consumers may be homeowners working on a set decorating budget or a commercial space that is more interest in function that fancy designs.
Cheap blinds may be still a very good quality or even high quality discontinued brands. Each new season brings new colors and patterns to the decorating world and old stock can often be purchased for well below its original retail value.
Care should be taken when buying discount blinds that you do not end up with cheap versions of higher quality blinds. If you save on quality too much you will find you have a product that will loose their veins easily and may not have durable hardware. You may end up having to replace them far sooner than you had hoped to.
If you hope to keep your blind for a long term in your home it is worth the initial investment in a bit of quality when you purchase them. Shopping online is a good way to find many sources of discount blinds. The Internet gives consumers access to a far wider selection than they have had in the past.
Mini Blinds
Room Darkening,
Vertical Blinds,
Vinyl Blinds,
Wooden Blinds,
Faux Wood Blind,
Guide to buying blinds
August 31, 2006
Cellular window shades and blinds
How do I allow more natural light into a room without it fading my furniture?
That's a good question and an important one in the interior design industry. We don't always want to have our blinds closed or slanted so much that we can't see outside.
One way to do this is with a cellular shade. They are sort of like a pleated shade with the sizes running from 1/2 inch to 1 1/2 inch. They are pull cord operated and can have the same color backing if you want. Cellular shades normally come with a white backing. There are about 25 different colors for you to choose from.
If you are unfamiliar with this type of blind they are ideal as a room darkening or light filtering window blind. You can choose the amount of light that comes in by buying a heavier fabric or simply by raising or lowering the shade. These are the best window shades for when you want a uniform look from the outside of your home. Cellular shades are ideal in the kitchen or breakfast nook. Another benefit of these particular blinds are they fit well in behind shears and curtains. They seem to blend in with the facric creating a beautiful warm look and feel to your room.
For more information about window coverings go here
Cellular Blinds
Roman fabric shades
Privacy blinds
Pleated Blinds
You can buy sizes in 24X48 to 72X72 inches. Colors and patterns from levolor are white, cream, ivory, satin sheer and linen slub. Hunterdouglas cellular shade colors range everywhere from artic gray to bisque, sage, blue, green and fresh pine.
cellular window shades and blinds
Posted on 07:31 PM | Details | Comments (0)August 22, 2006
Choosing a Window Shutter
Window shutters are one window covering that looks as good on the outside of your home as they do on the interior of your home. There are basically four styles from which to choose from.
Hurricane Shutters - Protect your windows from high wind storms and flying debris.
Interior - A new indoor decorative window covering idea. Indoor shutters are made of the finest quality hardwood polished to a fine furniture finish. The 2 1/2 inch louvers offer you Custom Made Plantation Shutters at an affordable price. Wood
outdoor shutters - High quality, kiln dried wood alleviates warping, tongue and groove joints add strength and durability, special tension springs keep louvers in position, and double doweling and glue at each corner insures stability.
Outdoor styles are made of polypropylene copolymer and are U.V. stabilized with molded-through color making them maintenance-free. Styles to fit on the outside of your windows come in sets with louver or raised panels.
Wood plantation shutters - offer a deep wood grain texture without the worry and maintenance of wood. American brand shutters are an elegant way to add warmth and sophistication to any home.
Blinds inside windows
By now every one has seen the ads on tv for window blinds that are installed inside your windows. It looks like a pretty cool window treatment, but is it cost effective. I am not talking about installing roman shades or mini blinds inside the window frame. This new style requires you to buy replacement windows and then have them profesionally installed. By the information that I have seen on tv, I didn't notice if you could even open up these windows to allow air to come in, so you would be limited to where you want these installed. Having said all that I still think they are a very unique window treatment, that would be an interesting addition to a modern home.
The cost I beleive would be prohibitive. I wonder how much it would be to replace these blinds if you were redecorating and then had to change colors. As it is now you can buy vertical blinds for as little as $10 dollars, which makes it cheap and affordable to change the look of a room any time you like. If you do purchase this new style of these window shades it would be in your best interests to pick a nuetral color.
Posted on 11:01 AM | Details | Comments (1)August 21, 2006
decorating videos
I just wanted to let everyone know that very soon we will be releasing our decorating videos. These will be short 2 minute videios showing you quick ways to decorate your home. Most of these decorating ideas will be from homes that need something extra to cover spaces or to fill in areas that seem to big for what you have there. In the future we will be adding short decorating videos on paint and wallpaper techniques to how to fix broken tiles and laminate flooring.
June 11, 2006
Large Window Curtains
Many homes today have large windows like cathedral styles or several windows grouped together such as bay windows dominating one wall. These are often the main feature or design of a room giving you access to to beautiful views and allowing in as much natural light as possible. They are normally left with no window coverings or curtains.
This usually creates a privacy problem with people being able to see in and at certain times of the day too much light, especially in the summer months.
Glare from the sun in the morning and evening can make a room feel uncomfortable. If you are getting harsh light through the transoms you can cover the windows with drapery. The problem here though is it might be overpowering the overall look of the room and make it look sort of staged.
There are a few decorating styles that you can use.
Palladian and cathedral windows, normally the main feature in a modern room creates the biggest problem with lack of privacy. You could treat the lower half of a large window with curtains on a traverse or curtain rod and leave the transoms plain or unadorned. Vertical blinds are another option but they may look too over powering for your decor. Try topping the blinds with a swag or a valance to soften the effect. Both of these options will still show off the shape or design structure of your windows and still allow you to have some privacy.
Another option is use a scarf or shears hung across the transom, which should block out enough sun to make the room feel comfortable again. Curtain shears would be hung over curtain rods secured at the top and bottom of the window.
Vertical blinds and cellular shades in specialty shapes would also work.
The simplest method would be a valance is a simple style like a chevron and could be hung on each transom.
Bay or bow windows can be treated as a group or by each individual window.
As an individual window treatment use matching shades, blinds or shutters to create a modern look.
Tied back curtains would give you a more softer style.
A bow window needs a curved curtain rod or hanging wire system, which should be installed by a professional. You could mount the rod on the wall above the windows instead of on the window frame.
Continue reading "Large Window Curtains" »
Posted on 02:45 PM | Details | Comments (0)May 31, 2006
About Curtain Fabrics
Curtain fabrics can evoke so many different things, depending upon its type. Certainly, brocades and tapestries are rich; velvets and wools are make a room feel warm, where lace and cottons give a light and airy feel. Whatever the fabric, it should be of good quality so that the curtain will drape smoothly, pleat well, and have more body. Yarn quality depends on how tightly it is spun, how many strands of fiber are used, and the length of the fiber.
The more you know about how a particular is is made, the fiber content of its yarn, how the cloth was dyed, and they it has been treated with a special finish will help you to select the right one for your window treatment.
The weight of a fabric also contributes to overall effect of a window treatment. And that sheers soften the shape of treatment and allow in light, while opaque fabrics give an arrangement form and add warmth to a room? Patterned fabrics do affect the way you see the proportions of a room.
Purchase samples, which will only cost a few dollars or they can be free. After you've checked how the samples look in at what you have had in the past in your home, it will give you a better idea about your choices.
Heavyweight fabrics, such as brocades and velvets whether they are light or dark in color, create feeling and keep out the sun.
More about window treatments can be found on this page.
There is a difference between decorator fabrics and clothing fabrics. Decorator fabrics have a higher thread count and are more tightly woven, so they will hold up better. Most are 54 inches wide, whereas garment fabrics are 45 inches wide. The wider the fabric, the less yardage you'll make your window treatment. But decorator fabrics are more expensive and so you may not notice any savings.
To make fabric, yarns are then woven on a loom. Yarns used lengthwise on the loom are called warp; yarns that run widthwise are called weft. The same type of yarn can be made into a number of different weaves. For example, cotton can be woven into a damask or a canvas. For a plain weave, the yarns are alternated over and under each other, from side to side, and from top to bottom. This is the most common type of weave.
A basket weave uses two yarn for each row in a plain pattern. A twill weave results ringbone pattern. A satin weave has a shiny smooth surface. A pile produces loops that are then ate a soft surface; velvet is a good example of this weave. A Jacquard weave requires a special loom do combinations of weaves, plain, twill, and satin.
Mixing patterns can be intimidating, in part because it's subject to experimentation, judgment, and "eye." responding to this fear, manufacturers provide an abundance of coordinated fabric collections, available through in-store design services.
Such collections selected by professionals, can save you a lot of legwork and still leave scope for your own input. If you prefer to mix your patterns, try to match the scale of the pattern to that area over which it is to be used.
The general rule is to use large prints on the largest parts of a window treatment such as the curtain panel; medium prints on medium pieces, such as a cornice or a valance; and small prints on accent pieces, such as borders.
To experiment with mixing patterns, start simply. Geometric patterns often mix well together, stripes with checks, plaids or dots. It is always easier to mix patterns that contain one or more common colors or have a similar level of intensity between the prints.
A solid-color companion that pulls out a hue shared by two prints provides another connection.
Exact matches are the backbone of manufacturers' coordinated collections. But to arrive at your own personal mix, you can interpret the principle loosely and experiment to see which pattern combinations work for you. Designers develop a knack for picking eye-catching combinations—and through experimentation you will, too. Look through magazines for ideas.
Remember, however, that it is important to give your eyes a place to rest. Be sure to add a solid-color fabric or trimming into the mix, as well.
Continue reading "About Curtain Fabrics" »
Posted on 07:34 PM | Details | Comments (1)April 26, 2006
Window Shutter Styles
Six basic configurations include single and double-panel, bi-fold and bypass panel, plus single and double-hung cafe style.
Hurricane - Protect your windows from high wind storms and flying debris.
Interior - A new indoor decorative window covering idea. Indoor shutters are made of the finest quality hardwood polished to a fine furniture finish. The 2 1/2 inch louvers offer you Custom Made Plantation Shutters at an affordable price. Wood Blinds are available in matching colors to help you coordinate your home. The interior styles also come in faux wood. Outdoor styles are made of polypropylene copolymer and are U.V. stabilized with molded-through color making them maintenance-free. Styles to fit on the outside of your windows come in sets with louver or raised panels.
Exterior Styles - High quality, kiln dried wood alleviates warping, tongue and groove joints add strength and durability, special tension springs keep louvers in position, and double doweling and glue at each corner insures stability
Plantation Styled - offer a deep wood grain texture without the worry and maintenance of wood. American brand shutters are an elegant way to add warmth and sophistication to any home.
Is it time to replace your old windows
Sooner or late you will have to replace the windows in your home if you live their long enough or if you buy a older home. You can save yourself some pretty big headaches and damage costs if you know when to buy replacement windows for your home.
The points below will help you decide if your old wood framed or metal framed windows are neat the end of their life span.
If you windows are hard to open and close or sound like they are dragging. If air leaks in or out around the frame. Windows that fog up or condensation starts to collect between the glass panes. ( seals are gone)
Safety is a factor when windows are hard to open or jam or if they had to be nailed shut, this may prevent a safe escape during a fire.
Examine all around the frame and glass for chipping, deterioration and water stains. If you see water stains on the frame and wait too long, dry rot and mold could begin growing and then you have real problems.
If you are having maintenance problems and cleaning is a big hassle or replacement parts are hard to find or are non-existent, you should probably invest in new ones. ( more about this topic here)
Posted on 10:46 AM | Details | Comments (0)April 24, 2006
Review of Bali blinds and shades
Bali is a company that produces and sells one of the most beautiful collections in window blinds and window shades. There are 6 basic categories that you can shop from.
Bali fabric shades - three basic styles: that you can buy for allowing just a little more light into a room but still require the privacy.
Pleated shades offer fashion flexibility for your window treatments with many fabrics, colors, and textures to choose from.
Roman shades are a beautiful blend of today's popular window treatment decorating styles, colors and textures.
Energy efficient cellular shades come in a wide array of soft, colorful window treatment fabrics to complement any home décor
Bali vinyl vertical blind window treatments give drama and dimension to patio doors and large windows.
Soft vertical blinds are beautiful window treatments that combine the traditional look of sheer panels with the functionality of vertical blinds. They are also easy blinds to operate.
Bali natural shades of Rattans and straws, sisal and grass cloths, reeds and bamboos create relaxed atmospheres of casual elegance or simple sophistication. Bali Natural Shades are the natural decision for cultural decorating influences—tropical, southwestern, oriental, and African themes.
They feature an extensive offering of options—including valances, decorative trims and finishes, fabric edge bandings, privacy liner and Bottom Up/Top Down—making them naturally versatile.
Bali wood blinds are crafted of fine quality North American hardwood as the natural insulating qualities of wood blinds that keep rooms warmer in winter, cooler in summer.
Faux wood blinds combine the look of real wood with the features and benefits of vinyl window treatments. But are still affordably practical. Bali horizontal blinds are durable, versatile, easy to operate window treatments – Bali aluminum mini blinds add color to your life. Bali vinyl mini blinds are a perfect choice for your window treatment decorating needs.
Bali Blinds and Shades Buy Bali window blinds here and review other manufactures to compare prices
Lowest Price Guarantee -Free Ground shipping
April 21, 2006
Replacement Window Styles
Windows come in many shapes and sizes today, allowing you to make distinctive statements and complement many styles of shapes and designs.
What style of window you choose will define how much daylight you want to bring into your home.
Casement windows, which are more contemporary in style and offer a larger view, are more common in newer homes and are typical in the western part of the U.S./
Awning windows are pretty much the same in design to casement windows, but are wider than they are tall. Awning type windows are mostly used for ventilation when placed above or below a window or door. They provide more light and are often used in homes with traditional, double-hung windows.
Double-hung windows project a more traditional appearance than casement windows. They are common in older homes like victorian or English Tudor styles in the eastern part of the U.S. and are a great choice if you want to maximize the amount of wood on the interior of a home. Double-hung windows come in larger widths up to 45 inches and may help save you money by allowing you to put one larger double-hung window in place of more smaller ones.
A great way to capture a beautiful view is through the use bay or bow windows. Bay windows are typically three windows joined together. The center window is often fixed with operating double-hung or casement windows on the sides.
Bow windows consist of four or more casement windows joined together to form a graceful curve. Options in bow windows include fixed windows that can't be opened, vented windows that can be opened or a combination of the two.
Fixed windows are those that cannot be opened. They are available in a range of sizes, in rectangular and custom shapes, and in a variety of standard, and custom exterior cladding colors. They can be used by themselves or with other window types. Fixed frame windows are available in sizes up to 48 square feet.
These semi-circular windows are designed to fit over other windows and doors to add a decorative touch. Or use them as lovely accents on their own.
What comes first - window treatments or wallcoverings
One would normally think that you want to change your wall coverings first and then redecorate your window coverings. Most decorators would probably say do the paint and wallpaper first. Not me because I am that husband that has to shop for the next 3 months for just the right fabric color or color of blinds because my wife's choice in paint and wallpaper doesn't quite go with the choice of window decor. That is why I am a big believer in choosing the wall coverings last.
Because you can color match any type of paint these days as long as you have a sample and the choices in wall paper are just as big. I have been doing it this way for a lot of years and it works for me and may work for you.
Before you decide on the design or style of wall coverings have a general look at your home inside and out. Take note of the colors you have used and your furnishings. Write down what you like and what you don't like. Include colors that you have used in the past, even if they are outdated. Then go buy a few home decorating magazines and see what tickles your fancy.
Note::
about outdated paint and wallpaper designs and colors that you have used as a wall covering before
if magazines say this or that color is outdated and show you say a new kitchen with new colors in paint and wallpaper - yes it probably looks modern and really nice. But how many of us can go out and buy new updated appliances, countertops and dining areas to make the wall treatments stand out. Your choices in colors and designs are not outdated if they match your furnishings and home decor
April 15, 2006
Framed Art Project
A very cool idea I came across from www.womansday.com was to make your own glass picture framed nature scene using grass and leaves.
You could use just flowers or anything your imagination can come up with. Today it's leaves, grass and flowers.
Materials needed:
Picutre frame of any size.
2 panes of glass the same size as the inside of the frame.
Collage materials - leaves, grass and pressed flowers.
Paint or stain for the frame.
Thumb tacks or other picture frame screws to hold back covering.
Screw eyes and or nails.
Hanging wire or fishing line.
2 heavy books.
Finally a couple of paint brushes if you need to paint the frame.
To see how this crafty art project is put together go here to home accents wall art the picutre is a view through two panes of glass propped up against a window so you can still see outside and allow light to come in.
You can do this framed art in an afternoon. It stands alone as a piece of wall art and is a neat craft idea to get your children involved.
Posted on 04:56 PM | Details | Comments (0)February 03, 2006
Choosing replacement windows
I was asked by someone to help them decide on what type of window style to install when they go to replace their old windows.
The style of your window really affects the look of your home and greatly influences your choice of window treatment. Without out going into great detail a group of three windows with an arch over top is called a palladin window, it can have more than one arch. This type is for when you want the window to be the focal point of the room. Used mostly when you have a nice view outdoors.
A picture window sometimes called a bay window is also for great views. It normally is one large window with 2 smaller sizes beside it. The main difference is that this style has angles and juts out of a room. The curved bay window is called a bow, both styles will add approx. 4 feet of extra room.
For natural light you would use what is called a celestory. It is a line of horizontal windows that allow more light in but still gives you a good amount of privacy. Just remember natural light brightens up a room because it reflects mostly off the floor and furniture, not just because it is shining in the window.
Elliptical and arched types often are placed above double hung and fixed windows. They also work well for small bathrooms. A cameo window is a circular shape that you see alot of on narrow staircase landing to allow more light in during the day. The more modern shapes are trapezoidal or triangular with the combination making a cathedral style window.
Posted on 10:36 PM | Details | Comments (0)
