Sheers on a window
Window treatments are an important part of design. Not only do they give the homeowner some privacy from the outside world, but they also help to control the amount of light inside and, of course, help to finish up the decor of a room. Knowing the many different options available for window treatments is a good way to start. Does this Spark an idea?
Blinds
Blinds are the most basic of choices for window covers. They are inexpensive, easy to maintain and come in many different colors and sizes. Blinds are available in either vertical or horizontal configurations, so they can be used on both windows and sliding doors. They also come in a cellular version, which is similar but does not use actual panels to block out the light. Rather, cellular version blinds utilize pleated fabric "cells" to diffuse the light.
Roman Shades
Roman shades do use vertical panels to block out the line, just as traditional blinds do. However, Roman shades use fabric panels rather than plastic, vinyl or aluminum panels like those of traditional blinds. When the cord is pulled to raise a Roman shade, the fabric lays in neat folds.
Curtains
Curtains are stationary window treatments that can only be adjusted by using tie-backs. Curtains may be made from nearly any fabric and can be slipped over a rod with a pocket sewn at the top, hung as flat panels with tabs or mounted with rings. They should not be confused with drapery.
Drapery
Unlike curtains, draperies are movable window treatments. Like curtains, however, they can be made from nearly any fabric. They are often hung from a rod or decorative pole using rings, though they may also feature loops or tabs at the top that allows them to be hung from the rod without any additional accessories. Draperies are generally sewn into pleated panels, though this is not always true.
Sheers
Sheers are similar to curtains and drapery, however they utilize a sheer, lighter weight fabric. Sheers can be hung in the same manner as either drapery or curtains, but will not block out all light during the day or offer total privacy during the evening.
Cascades and Swags
A piece of fabric that is draped over the top of a window using a pole is known as a scarf or swag. Swags are often combined with cascades, also known as jabots, which are also stationary pieces of fabric that "cascade" down the sides of the window. Cascades and swags are often combined with sheers or another type of window treatment to ensure privacy. This type of window treatment is generally considered more formal than most other types of treatments.
Valances and Cornices
Valances and cornices are both mounted across the top of a window. A cornice differs from a valance only in the fact that it is a board, either stained or covered in fabric or wallpaper, that stretches across the top of a window. Valances, on the other hand, are made from fabric and hung on a rod above the window. Both options can be combined with another window treatment to ensure privacy and proper light control.
Lambrequin
A lambrequin is an extended version of the cornice, usually made from a solid board cut in a decorative shape and either painted or stained or covered with fabric or wallpaper. It includes extensions that come down on both sides of the window, allowing it to cover more of the window frame. Lambrequins can be combined with other window treatments, such as blinds or sheers, to ensure privacy and for better control over light.
Tags: combined with, made from, window treatments, ensure privacy, across window, block light, cellular version