DRAPES

Fabric dressing for windows or beds that play a key role in the sound and decoration of a room. Drapes (curtains) may be made from a vast choice of lightweight to heavy weight fabrics. Plain coloured drapes and see through ones  can take fullness of up to three times the width of the window, whilst curtaining with defined pattern or weave may be little more than flat, so that the design itself is the star. Those that sweep the floor are very elegant, but if the drapes do need to be sill length there are design tips that can help even then look good even when short. Several layers of draperies, or drapes with supplementary blinds, pelmets or swagged tops can be design together to create the perfect window treatment. Lining helps to protect the fabric from dust and sunlight, interlining absorbs sound and draught, unlined drapes can be sheer to soften light or swooshed and draped in an unfettered manner to show off the fabric. Drapes may be hung in a number of ways, the top  may be pleated, gathered, or tied,  fitted to a show rod or track or covered with a pelmet or other drapery.