Creating Moods with Fabrics

When fabric panels outline the edges of a window, the space becomes more comfortable and inviting. The fabric chosen should reflect the mood a room conveys. Faux silk fabrics reflect formality and enhance the richness of dark woods and silver accessories. Lush textures such as velvets and suede’s and micro fibers not only evoke feelings of grandeur but have insulating qualities too. On the other hand embroidered sheer or textured linen conveys a sense of casualness, offering a relaxed, kick off your shoes feel. When the drapery panels are meant to be the main attraction, opt for a splashy print, plaid, or stripe. If the panels are meant to serve as a supporting role, a solid or subtle print that fades into the setting may be better.

Making Statements with fabrics

Drapery panels appear as large expanses of fabric in a room, so the fabric must be selected carefully for the right visual effect. Keep the following tips in mind while fabric shopping.

1. Prints will look like splashes of color when the panel is gathered or pleated. Scrunch fabric together and view it from a distance to see how it will look when hung on a curtain rod.

2. Bold stripes can become lost when a panel is pushed open, the colors will randomly appear in the folds of the panel. Try the scrunch teat before hanging.

3. Prints with dark background colors, such as black will make a statement and become immediate focal points in a room.

4. The larger the print, the more attention the panels will receive. Toiles, floral prints and plaids make excellent choices for drapery panels.

5. Keep the scale of the room in mind when selecting print size. A flamboyant print can overwhelm a room with many windows. A small print may appear out of place in large rooms.