Learn the Language of Drapery

Custom drapery is the only window treatment where you can truly design each piece of it for your personalized style. When you choose the fabric, pattern, and type of drapery, you’re creating a masterpiece that is as unique as you! At Window Products serving Connecticut, our talented seamstresses and experienced designers can help you create your custom fabric drapery. You may already be familiar with the language of drapery, but if not, take a look at these simple terms below.

Drapery or Curtain?

First and foremost, people often ask, what’s the difference between drapery and curtains? Though these terms are sometimes used interchangeably, they do mean different things. Curtains tend to vary in length, while draperies usually fall all the way to the floor. The term “draperies” also can refer to lined or backed curtains with a fuller and heavier feel.

Puddling. Puddling refers to an amount of extra drapery length that is spilled or “puddled” onto the floor. This design technique is most popular with drapery panels. Drapery that is opened and closed regularly doesn’t work well with the function or style of puddling.

Break. The break in a set of drapery is the length at which the fabric hangs past the floor. From a design perspective, the floor is a visual break that causes a fold in a fabric. A 3-inch break is popular.

Hem. A hem is any bottom, side or top portion of the drapery fabric folded and sewn toward the back of the treatment. A 3-inch bottom hem is most common. Larger hems have a more high-end look.

Tieback. A tieback holds each drape away from the center of the window. Tiebacks can be bands of matching fabric, braided cords, or tassels. This drapery accessory can be as toned back or dramatic as you’d like it to be.

Leading edge. The leading edge is a sewn fabric edge at the opening of your custom draperies. This part of your drapery can be coordinate with a secondary color in your decor and used in other accents, such as pillows or throws.

Inside or outside mount. Mounting drapery or other window treatments on the inside of your window frame creates a more contemporary look. Mounting on the outside of your window frame is more popular, and allows you to create window coverings that are longer than your actual windows, making the windows look bigger.

Custom Drapery in Connecticut

At Window Products, we’ve been serving Connecticut since 1994. We offer the full line of Hunter Douglas window fashions, a nice selection of screen shades, and a wide variety of awnings and shades. Our personalized service, quality products, and professional installation services ensure you’ll find the perfect window treatment or awning for your home or business. Contact us for more details.