Understanding Drapery Terms
With multiple choices in fabric and patterns, custom drapery offers one-of-a-kind style. At Altra Home Décor trained consultants can help you create a drapery masterpiece that’s sure to complement your style and home. To get started, check out some of the terminology we often use:
Curtain or Drapery
Curtains come in varying lengths, and draperies are typically fully floor-length. We might also use the term “drapery” to refer to a backed or lined curtain that has a fuller or heavier feel.
Tieback
A band of matching fabric, braided cord, or tassel, a tieback holds each drape away from the center of the window. You can choose this accessory to be as toned down 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 coordinate with a secondary color in your décor and can also be used in other accent pieces in the room, such as pillows or throws.
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.
Puddling
Many draperies—often drapery panels—have extra fabric that is spilled or “puddled” on the floor. If you plan to open and close your draperies often, puddling will not work well for you.
Break
In a set of drapery, the break 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. The most popular break is a three-inch one.
For More Information
If you’re interested in adding draperies to the windows in your home, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’ll be happy to help you navigate the terminology and the choices so you can have the perfect style for you.
Custom Drapery in Phoenix AZ
Altra Home Decor located in Surprise, AZ is your source for window treatments, custom drapery, flooring, and more! We serve the greater Phoenix area, including Peoria, Sun City West, Glendale, and Scottsdale, with a showroom in Surprise. Stop by our locally owned store to view our full-size window treatment displays and sample books. Contact us today to schedule an in-home design consultation!
