A

A/B Sheet

Orientation of how the electrical drapery track lies on the template.

AC

Alternating current.

AC motors

Require 120VAC of electricity which is found in a typical outlet in a home or office. AC motors are either plugged into an outlet with a standard AC plug or require wiring by a licensed electrician.

Aluminum Blinds

Horizontal aluminum blinds are made out of 6-gauge to 9-gauge aluminum, with the 9-gauge being the sturdiest and more expensive product. Other names; “mini blinds,” “macro blinds,” or “micro blinds”.

Angelica

Close to swags and cascade valances, but less formal in nature. Fabric is cut straight from fabric width (unless more than 3′ wide) and pleated at the top to create scallop or swag look. It represents an informal closed swag. Tails representing cascades are flatter and squarer in a layered fashion sometimes accompanied by rosettes on top.

Applique

Where a piece of fabric is an overlay onto a bottom fabric to form a decorative application or specific cut out pattern then sewn onto the bottom fabric for texture and depth.

Apron

The part of a window casing below the sill.

Arc Length

Actual track width of a curved drapery.

Arched Valance

A valance treatment that is arched along the lower edge.

Asynchronous

Do not move at precisely the same time.

Austrian Shade

Shade that is gathered and drawn by vertical shirring down both sides and possibly one or two other vertical areas of the shade to create folds of swag-like billowing of fabric folds from top to bottom. Usually made of sheer fabrics and used as an under-treatment or bathrooms over glass block. When is drawn make fabric folds tighter all the way to the top of the shade.

Avalon Valance

This valance resembles a cornice in that it has structured returns and fabric represents tightly connected swags that are tightly pulled on the outer end and tapered on a diagonal in the middle with one swag overlapping the other. Similar to a turban style – but with swaged fabric instead of gathered.

B

Back plate

Back panel of the roller shade to help block the light and or hide the roller from the rear view.

Batten

A stiffener or insert added to a panel of fabric to stabilize and help prevent twisting or cupping.

Banner Valance

(Handkerchief valance). A series of fabric triangles attached to a mounting board or threaded on a rod.

Balloon Shade

(Balloon Valance); Curtain window treatments of shirred or gathered fabric drawn up into billowy folds.

Bamboo Blinds

A roman-styled shade made of reeds.

Banding

To frame or border a piece of work with a contrasting or similar strip of contrast fabric to add interest to the finished work. Banding can be placed anywhere – sides to frame a window, top to bring the eye up, bottom to ground the work, inside two panels to add focus to the window, or diagonal to add abstract interest or focal point.

Baseboard

(Skirting Board); A narrow border that runs along the base of a wall where it meets the floor. It is made of wood or composite-wood.

Basswood

A premium wood with a smooth finish used for making wood blinds and shutters.

Battery Powered Motors

Battery Powered motors use quality lithium batteries as a power source and are perfect for smaller window covering or installations that are not near an outlet. Since they are batteries, there are no wires to conceal and no electrician is required of the drape.

Bay Window

A three-sided (or more) window that protrudes from the exterior wall of a house.

Bias Cut

Diagonal cut across the nap of the fabric, usually a 45 degree angle, allowing ease and “give” for curving and swaging and for bindings to curve around something without creasing or “denting”. This is used for formal structured swags as a rule, and for welting around curves. As well to add interest to straight welting on bedding or pillows with patterned fabric cut on the bias. Stripes particularly look amazing done this way. But some patterns do not look right cut on the bias. Up and down patterns in particular sometimes will not work. An example would be toiles with story pictures.

Bishop’s Sleeve Curtains

Extra-long straight panels of fabric which are cinched in the middle and puffed.

Blackout

Black Out Drapery or Shade; Custom Drapery or Shades that are manufactured using normal fabric with a Black Out type lining to block the light that filters through the fabric. Many times inner lining is used in addition to black out lining. This treatment will darken the room, also will shield against heat and cold coming through or leaking out; and can even work as a sound barrier between window and outside noise. There are different grades and types of black out lining.

Bleed Through

This is quite common on printed fabric or when two fabrics are used in layers. Sometimes the darker color of the bottom one will “bleed through” to the top one in the light and spoil the color and pattern of the top one. This can be corrected with the use of interlining in addition to lining.

Blind

A horizontal window treatment that is used both as a decorative window cover and also provide privacy and protection from sunlight.

Blind Stitch

This window treatment glossary term is a stitch is used on the side and bottom hems of drapery panels to make them hang straight. There is more fabric on the sides and bottom folds and this keeps the fabric neater and straighter than top stitching. It also looks more professional. You can tell the quality of a workrooms work just by looking at the sides of the panels. Blind Stitching is a much more desirable and professional finish.

Bottom Rail

It is a heavy horizontal piece of hardware that anchors your window covering on the bottom. Bottom rails are usually color-coordinated to match the rest of the window covering. The bottom rail weighs the window covering down and keeps it hanging straight.

Bow Window

A curved or arched window space projecting outward from the main walls of a building.

Box Pleats

Deep, inverted, tailored pleats which are flat on the right side of the drapery to create a classical boxy look.

Brackets

Installation parts that are mounted on the window frame or wall used to attach and install the head rail of a window treatment.

Braid

A flat decorative trim that can be used to embellish curtain window treatments. Gimps and woven ribbons can fall in this category.

Brighton Shades

It is a Balloon shades without the pleats, rings, and cords along the sides. It allows the sides to fall in relaxed tails.

Brocade

A woven fabric used for drapery and upholstery. Has both a matte finish and a shiny finish, and that is woven in the background. Most of the time there are gold or silver threads added in the weave, but not always. Shiny patterns give a raised-look effect, almost an embroidered look.

Buckram

A coarse cotton, hemp or linen cloth stiffened with glue or a glue-like substance used in the header of pleated curtains. Buckram can give lasting shape to a valance.

Bullion Drapery Trim

Very long thick twisted rope-type cording that is twisted and looped to attach to drapery, bedding, pillows, etc. for interesting trim features.

Bump

A thick blanket-like fabric that is often used as interlining for drapery for insulation and some sound-proofing with other liners and face fabric. It is placed between the face fabric and the lining and makes the window treatment thicker and more luxurious.

Butt master

It is drapery masters that “butt” into each other rather than overlapping one another.

C

Cafe Curtains

Short drapery to cover the bottom half of a window and can traverse or be stationary, pleated or gathered at the top; and usually accompanied by a matching or contrasting top treatment with the top part of the window being left bare.

Café Mount Shutters

Shutters that cover only the bottom portion of the window; generally the bottom half.

Cafe Rod

A slim curtain rod.

Calico

A plain-weave fabric made from raw unbleached cotton.

Cantonniere

A Cornice that has long sides that go to the floor framing the window usually made of wood and wrapped with fabric and some foam padding. Good for light-blocking; bedrooms and media rooms or theaters.

Carrier

Clip used to hold the vertical vanes inside the head rail of a vertical blind. Carriers are linked together and both tilt and traverse inside the head rail with external controls.

Cartridge Pleats

Often confused with a Goblet Pleat, a cylindrical fold of fabric lined with buckram to hold the cylinder shape at the top of a drape or panel. These pleats can range from just a few inches to over a foot long for great drama effects and at a tall window and be very narrow or very wide depending upon the height of the window treatment and how dramatic you want them to be. However, what separates the two is the tucking or tacking at the bottom of the goblet pleat. For a Cartridge Pleat – there is none. It creates a rolling effect of the fabric and the cylinder is stuffed to hold its shape. The goblet pleat has tucking or tacking at the bottom to add detail or trim to the drape.

Cascade

Side treatments to valances and/or cornices that is separate pair of end treatments with returns that fall in folds creating a zigzag effect, left and right framing the window, usually lined with contrasting fabric or self-lined with same fabric as front. Sometimes referred as; “side tails” or jabot.

Casement Window

A hinged window operated by a crank mechanism that can open in or out.

Casing/Frame

The structural case into which a window or door is set, usually covered by a wide molding.

Casing

A fabric pocket to encase a curtain rod or elastic for gathering. Usually made by folding fabric over twice and stitching. Hem with open ends.

Casual Swags

Free-form folds of fabric – usually gathered at the ends – cut straight on fabric – and assembled in a sweeping fashion on a pole or board that drapes into informal folds in a semicircle fashion. Usually have cascades and jabots to accompany the end of the swags or center.

Cellular Shade

A cellular shade consists of two or more sheets of accordion-pleated reinforced fabric which is bonded together. From the front, this appears to be a standard pleated shade, but from the side you can see that the multi-layered construction creates a single, double, or even triple layer of honeycombed air spaces. Most manufacturers will tell you that this affects the ambience of the light that filters through them or that it affects the colors of the top layer, but the real benefit is less obvious. The honeycomb construction of cellular shades creates multiple air pockets within the shade which have an insulating effect. In other words, hang one of these puppies in a drafty window and you just might save on your heating bills in the winter.

Center Open

When a treatment draw evenly from the center and stack evenly on both sides of the window opening.

Chenille

A beautiful soft fabric getting its original name from the caterpillar for the softness. This fabric is now made from synthetic materials also, but originally was cottons and wool derived. This fabric makes heavy rich drapery and bedding. Oftentimes found in deep paisley patterns or raised textures in single colors. Chenille and velvet can look different colors from different angles.

Chintz

A floral printed cotton fabric.

Ceiling Mount

Alternative mounts for window treatment.

Cellular Shade

Fabric shades that uses air pockets to maximize energy efficiency; insulating against heat, cold, and sound. Called “honeycomb shades”.

Cleat

A metal or plastic hook placed at the side of the window to hold the cords of a shade or curtain.

Cloth Tapes

Vertical strips of fabric, usually one to two inches wide that are used to hold a blind together. Tapes are not threaded through the slats like ladders; when the blinds are closed, the tapes will run straight down the front surface. Available on many wood, faux wood and 2″ mini blinds, cloth tapes improve light control and privacy while adding a decorative accent.

Closure/Flap

Piece used to close off a pocket to hide the roller from the room side when looking up.

C.O.M.

Better known as Customers Own Material – a window treatment glossary term you see frequently in the industry and not something that every designer allows. This is where the customer purchases their own fabric and supplies it to the workroom or designer to create the finished product. Good workrooms are particular about the quality of fabric, and for good reason. Some fabrics are just inappropriate for the design proposed. Better to leave this job to the professionals if you want a professional job done for you.

Composite

A mid-range material for manufacturing window treatments. Treatments made from composite have an alloy casing injected with grated wood and special adhesives, giving them thermodynamic properties superior to faux wood, but less than basswood.

Contemporary Drapery Hardware

Modern flair drapery fixtures have modern components, and are the current trend in custom drapery hardware. Sleek new shiny metals and composition jewels and unique knobs. These are styles “in the now”. They are fashionable today.

Continental Rod

Flat curtain rods that protrude from the wall to add depth and interest to rod pocket treatments. The most common widths are 2-1/2″ and 4-1/2″.

Continuous Cord Loop

A window treatment mechanism that uses a pulley system to rotate a clutch that raises or lowers a shade. The looped cord stays at the same length regardless of the position of the shade.

Controls

The mechanisms used to raise, lower and tilt a window treatment. Controls are usually cords or wands. When ordering a product, you will be asked to specify which side the controls will be placed on. Please note: all 1″ blinds come with wand control for the tilt, since the head rail size does not allow a cord.

Cord

A cotton or synthetic cable yarn that is used to hold together and lift/draw a blind or shade.

Cord Cleats

Used to prevent the cords of a window covering from pooling on the floor or window sill. Cord cleats are a safe solution to keep dangerous, dangling cords out of reach of children and pets. They are available for inside or outside mount applications.

Cord lock

Mechanism in the head rail used to hold a horizontal blind at the desired height by locking the lift cord into position.

Corner Pleated Swags

These are typical corner pleated swags commonly used to embellish stationary panels. Often use of tapestry or seasonal fabric used for these swags as they are easily changed through rings attached at each end of the panel. Width is usually the same with as the stack of the panels and fall down over the front of the drapery panels like a normal swag would. Can be either gathered or pleated at the ends where they are attached to rings.

Cordless

A window treatment mechanism that eliminates the lift cord for effortless raising and lowering of blinds and shades by pushing or pulling the bottom rail. Provides a less cluttered look and is a safe alternative for households with small children and pets.

Cornice

A cornice is a three-sided box, usually made of wood, which caps the top of a window. It is upholstered with a fabric that matches the curtains or blinds beneath it and is often padded to soften the edges and prevent the upholstery from sagging or wrinkling. It serves the same function as a valance, but provides a more formal presentation. It works especially well with an oversized window or a wall of equal sized windows.

Cornice Board

A horizontal board used to support the cornice.

Cornice Pole

It is a pole that has rings. Often used for heavy curtains.

Cottage Style Window Treatments

These are the counterpart to café curtains, these are over the top of café curtains with a valance and tied back on each side, exposing the upper part of the window to view outside. These curtains are usually unlined and lend themselves well to kitchen windows.

Cotton

A natural fiber fabric made from fibers in the boll of the cotton plant.

Coupler

Mechanical device that connects two tubes together to run as one system.

Crank Casement Windows

A casement window is any window that opens on a hinge rather than sliding in a groove. There are two basic kinds of casement windows — standard and awning. A standard crank casement window is hinged on one side and opens from the opposite side, while an awning casement window is hinged at the top and opens from the bottom. Both feature screens on the inside of the window.

Crinoline

This is essentially another word for Buckram. It is a stiffened fabric that is layered between two fabrics to keep them firm and from bending and standing up, like the ruffles of a pillow or the header of drapery. Has the feel of heavily starched fabric.

Cupping

Is when a fabric panel curls on outside edges.

Curtains

Usually a short drape and unlined; but can be long, and hung from a curtain rod over a window. Usually unlined, short and comes in pairs of hemmed and finished panels.

Curtain Drop

It is the length of the window treatment from the hanging system to the bottom edge.

Custom Drapery

Custom Made-To-Order Drapery and specific to each measured window to be an exact fit and manufactured in a drapery workroom.

Cut Drop

The finished bottom of curtain window treatments, plus allowances for hems and headings.

Cut Length

The length plus allowances for hems and seams or headers.

Cut Width

The width plus allowances for side hems.

Cutouts

Decorative silhouettes cut out of the panel of a shutter, offering the ability to further customize pair of shutters; usually crafted into the uppermost panel on each side.

D

Damask

is a fabric that has pattern on both sides. It can be reversed with the designs woven into the fabric. Originally used for fine table linens, graduated to window treatments, also. Fabric is solid color and textured from the weave but reflective in nature of the weave.

Decorative Hardware

Showy pieces of drapery rods and accessories that hold drapes, shades, valances like finials, scarf rings, medallions, twisted poles, tiebacks, etc. They are made from wood or metal with special details.

Depth

Front to back measurement of a window.

Divider Rail

Divider rails add both beauty and strength to shutter panels. With a divider rail in place the separate sections of louvers operate independently of each other. The default placement for the divider rail is in the center of the panel; however you can off center it.

Double Cell

A type of cellular shade construction that offers increased insulation by using two layers of cellular fabric.

Double Fullness

when the width of the fabric is double the width of the curtain rod

Double Hem

A heavier bottom drape using twice the hem fabric to double it in equal amounts. This adds weight to the bottom of the drape so they stay in place better. Many workrooms add drapery weights to the bottom of the drapes for the same reason. Some use drapery chain weights.

Double Top Header

This is similar to double hemmed – only at the top of the drapes and not the bottom. This gives a sturdier top for pleats and hanging purposes and makes the drapes look nicer from the back because this is a finished like the front fabric that hides the buckram and lining.

Double-Hung Window

The most common type of window, consisting of an upper and lower sash. These windows that are raised and lowered rather than cranked open. “Double hung” refers to the system of counter weights on either side of the window housing which attach to the bottom pane and prevent it from closing when opened. Once discarded in favor of crank-opened casement windows, double hung windows (new varieties are much better insulated and energy efficient) are regaining popularity in today’s homes. Double hung windows feature screens on the outside.

Dowel Rod

A slender rod placed inside the fabric pocket to raise or lower a shade.

Drapery

heavy weight fabric panel. There are many ways to hang a drape, from simple rod-pockets to metal drapery hooks which insert into the pinch-pleats of more formal draperies. Curtains usually lined, , and extend to the floor.

Drapery Accessories

Classified as any decorative item that enhances or enriches the drapery treatment as an embellishment.

Drapery Hardware

Any fixture that supports drapery or shades that are hung on windows like rods, rings, hooks, brackets, etc.

Drapery Hold Backs

decorative hardware accessories mounted to sides of window to hold back drapery panels to expose more of the window and afford more light into the room.

Drapery Rings and Hooks

the hardware for holding drapery either to the rod or to the window can vary in style, color, and type vastly. Everything from custom iron drapery hardware, chrome, wood drapery rings, decorative knobs and creative hooks, are just a few of the endless supply. The drapery rings allow the drapes to move freely on the pole and hooks keep stationary scarves and swags in place.

Drop Length

The distance from the top of the object to where you want the fabric to end.

Duo Shade

Two shade fabrics are combined in one treatment for complete versatility in light control and privacy.

Dye Lot

Fabric that has been manufactured all at once with a particular color or pattern has a specific dye lot. Another “batch” may have a different dye lot. They may vary in color and not recommended unless physically compared for color before ordering. Best to get a sample of both and match them physically yourself.

E

Edge Binding/Banding

A decorative fabric accent around the sides and bottom of a woven wood shade. It is available in both solid and decorative patterns to complement your home d?cor and provide a truly finished look.

Energy Efficient Window Treatments

There is a wide assortment of energy efficient window treatments available. These home energy saving window treatments have great benefits in addition to energy efficiency – eco-friendly fabrics, recycled materials, and low emissions, too. Learn more about them here.

End Cap

Plastic cap placed on the end of the head rail or bottom rail.

Extension Brackets

For installations requiring additional space between the blind and the mounting surface, so that the blind will clear obstructions such as window cranks or trims.it is available for outside mount applications only.

Exterior Hemb

A visible aluminum bar; painted white, which is used as weight or decorative reasons.

F

Fabric Panel

The result of all fabric widths sewn together to make curtain window treatments.

Face Fabric

this is the color or pattern of the fabric that faces the room – not the side that has lining applied to it. This is usually considered the “right” side of the fabric; but many designers use both sides of fabric. Sometimes the back of fabrics is prettier than the face of the fabric.it is depends on the fabric and the use.

Facing

A piece of fabric, that is strengthens the main piece of a fabric.

Factory Deductions

The reductions taken from the width and/or length of inside mounted window treatment. Deductions are necessary for the treatment to fit and operate inside the casing

Fan Folded

This is customarily done at workrooms when they finish drapery panels – it is the vertical fold of accordion action of the fabric that creates folds and helps hold the drapery to the form intended for pinch pleats, etc. Many European masters don’t believe in fan folding – this is more of a modern tradition than old world style. Without that, the drapes will “flair” a bit at the bottom, or have larger folds than the top.

Fascia

A vertical board that covers the curtain heading.

Feng Shui

according to Wikipedia is an ancient Chinese system of aesthetics believed to use the laws of both Heaven (astronomy) and Earth (geography) to help one improve life by receiving positive qi. Qi rides the wind and scatters, but is retained when encountering water. The term Feng Shui literally translates as “wind-water”. Learn more about Feng Shui and the five elements of yin and yang, and how they affect your work and play, your comfort and beauty, and many more areas of your life. It’s a “feel good” experience that you can learn more about with the addition of some beautiful Ionic Salt Lamps.

FESTOON

Similar to a valance. Rather than hanging straight down from a horizontal rod, however, it is draped from one corner to the opposite. Not really intended to be used on its own, try coupling with jabots or panels in a matching color to create the effect of a single piece of fabric which has been artfully arranged on a curtain rod.

Finial

Decorative pieces that fit over the end of a drapery rod that is usually plain and made for limited spaces. Takes the place of a finial and keeps rings from sliding off the ends of drapery rods. They can be plain, decorative, wood or metal.

Finish

A product that is applied to fabric as a protection against water marks and fading

Finished Length

is the length of the curtain after all the hems and headers are sewn.

Finished Drop Line

is the place where the curtain stops.

Fixed Louver

Any louvered shutter in which the louvers are stationary and do not move/pivot.

Flame Retardant Fabrics

Treated fabric so it will not catch on fire. There are two processes: Either it can be manufactured with flame retardant fiber, or it can be treated after it is milled with a flame retardant product that will make it stiffer and makes the fibers flame resistant.

Flannel

is a flat soft fabric that is beautiful for drapery and window treatments as well as bedding and upholstery. The fabric is made from fine wool and can be very colorful and have fabulous designs.

Flat Fell Seam

A seam that gives extra strength to a seam.

Flat Roman shade

this is a more tailored style shade that is flat and soft pleats form at the bottom as shade is drawn. It is very plain and simple.

Flush Depth

Depth required for a window treatment to fit completely inside the window opening without projecting into the room.

Flush Mount (Product Depth)

Depth required mounting blind so that it is fully recessed inside the window frame and no portion of the blind protrudes from the window frame.

Forging Iron

Old world style of blacksmiths to force shape iron and other metals with high heat and hammer

French Country Window Treatments

French Country reminds me of just that – the country in France – simple, feminine, lots of flowers and French lace mixed with pottery, canisters and roosters. Lots of pastels and toile fabrics and Waverly Fabrics are perfect for this d?cor. Not too fussy but definitely not plain vanilla either. A nice blend of floral and stripes with lace curtains underneath.

French door

Doors with multiple windowpanes.

French seam

A way of stitching fabric together with the seam hidden from view. Used on sheer fabrics.

Fullness

This window treatment glossary term makes a great deal of difference in the finished look of the drapery panels or other window treatments. Depending on the style, the fullness can be 2 or 3 times fullness or even up to 8 times fullness for things like sheer rod pocket curtains. This is the width of the window times the cuts of fabric width to give the finished product fullness. You can use less fabric to get the results, but it may not look as professional as using the ‘standard’ widths designated.

G

Galvanization

The process of applying a coat of zinc onto the surface of metal to prevent rust and decay.

Gather

Bringing fabric into a tighter position to add fullness.

Gathering Tape

this is a heading tape that creates a ruffle effect.

Gingham

Plain-weave cotton cloth with a checked pattern.

Goblet Pleats

A pleat that is pushed out and filled with curtain lining instead of folded inward.

Grain

The direction of threads in a fabric. Can be crosswise or lengthwise.

Grommet

Metal (usually brass or chrome) rings that have a front and a back and fit into each other to be placed on fabric to form a ring hole that will slide over drapery rod for ease of movement for the drapery. Usually matches the other hardware for the treatment.

Groover

A vinyl vertical vane with clear grooved channels on the edges to hold fabric inserts. Fabric vertical blinds are available without this option (‘free hang’), or with a groover (‘inserted’). The groover acts as a backing to the fabric material, providing total privacy and light control while still allowing for the fabric to be visible to the interior. You may need to select the color of the groover vane, which will be visible from the outside.

H

Hanger

when using an existing pocket, the hanger connects on the front side so the closure has an attachment point.

Hardware

the entire component for installing a window treatment.

Haute Couture Design

this is one of the most mist-used terms in the industry. Many THINK they are qualified to call themselves haute couture – but very few are qualified for even half of that term. This term was originally reserved for the clothing industry and donned proudly by such names as Chanel, Dior, Givenchy, Armani, and Valentino. It was exclusive and trend-setting, and was ruled the term could not be used unless certain quality and other criteria was met. Today, the term is used loosely; and by the drapery and upholstery industry by a few who may or may not have the same integrity and ethics of high-quality, expensive fabric, great perfection in detail, and made to order; but rather instead of those things, it is used to garner a higher return on their wares and allow them to cover charge for their services.

Heading

the top of the drapery is the header and how it is finished is called the heading. It can be pleated, gathered, shirred, tie or tab top, rod pocket, etc. It can be plain or decorative like smocking or shirring.

Header

The extra fabric above the curtain rod pocket.

Head rail

The hardware at the top of the window treatment that contains the mechanical operational parts.

Heat-sealing

it is Used when splicing two fabric panels together and when enclosing the hem- bar at the bottom of the fabric. (Also called seaming)

Hem

Turning under and stitching a raw edge.

Height

Refers to the vertical measurement

Hobbled Roman Shade

Roman shade that has permanent soft folds that layer when shade is fully extended or drawn. This is also called a soft fold roman shade.

Holdback

An ornament used to hold curtain window treatments off the window when open.

Hold-Down Brackets

Hold-down brackets prevent blinds from swaying. It is recommended for doors and in windows subject to wind exposure. Brackets must be unfastened from wall/door before shade can be raised. They are available for outside mount applications only.

Honeycomb Shade

A hollow, cell shaped fabric, made of seamless, extruded material designed to cover the glass and fold off to the top or bottom

Hopper Windows

Windows that are hinged at the bottom and open inward from the top

I

Individual Control

Individual Control is when multiple motorized window covering need to receive separate signals in order to raise or lower individually. This is available with Radio Technology Somfy® products such as handheld remotes, timers and wireless wall switches as well as with infrared controls.

Inner Designer

We all have an inner designer inside of us – its what you dream, create in your mind, wants, needs, and desires make up your inner designer in yourself. It might not be windows – it could be something else you are passionate about – but all your own thoughts – your inner designs.

Interior Decorator-Interior Designer

the basic difference between an interior decorator and interior designer is education and accreditation. Anyone can call themselves a decorator – no credentials required here; but REAL interior designers are Allied Members of ASID and have had special training and must maintain that accreditation membership on an ongoing annual basis, I believe. Many who are just decorators call themselves interior designers. This is just wrong! It’s like being a handyman-carpenter calling you an architect!

Intermediate Position

this feature allows users to save a preferred position for their motorized window coverings. This memory feature provides quick access without having to fine tune the position of any given shade each time. Save it once and it\’s always available. The intermediate position is accessed with the MY button on the Telis handheld remotes

Interlining

is a soft layer of fabric placed between the face fabric and the lining that helps protect the face fabric, makes the fabric “beefier” and have more body, it can insulate and sound proof by using fabrics like bump and thermal linings; and generally makes drapery window treatments look much more luxurious and expensive in look and feel.

Interior Designer

the basic difference between an interior decorator and interior designer is education and certification. Anyone can call themselves a decorator – no credentials required here; but REAL interior designers are ASID graduates and have had special training and must maintain that license yearly on an ongoing basis to call themselves an Interior Designer (though many do illegally and unethically) Ask to see their renewal with ASID before you buy.

INSERT

1) a small panel used between a pair of swags or jabots. 2) The fabric that is inserted into a groover of a fabric vertical

Inside Mount

A type of installation that refers to hanging a window treatment inside the window frame, so that it is recessed with the window.

In-Wall Wired

This is an available power option for most Somfy motors in which the motor is wired directly to the home or building\’s electrical system. This option requires a licensed electrician and offers Maintenance-free operation.

J

JABOT

– Pronounced zha-bow. This is a very impressive French term which means bird’s crop. A jabot is a small panel, usually folded into deep pleats at the top and cut at an angle at the bottom. This causes it to fall into gentle waves at the bottom, exposing both the front and back of the fabric — a great opportunity to showcase complementary colors or patterns. A jabot is usually hung from the top of the window on either side. Since it does not extend across the width of a window, it is largely ineffective as a window treatment on its own and is commonly coupled with an insert or placed beneath a festoon or valance.

Jamb

The molding around the window.

Jacquard

it is similar to damask in that it is solid color and woven designs in the fabric make it reversible.

K

Kick Pleated Valances

Similar to box pleats, but the pleats are spaced further apart

Knotting

A method for fastening or securing linear material by tying or interweaving

L

Ladders

Thin cords that are threaded through each slat that hold a blind together. In some cases, you may be able to substitute a cloth tape for a ladder.

Lambrequins

Lambrequins are much like a wood cornice box with longer “legs” or sides. They usually block in the window but don’t go all the way to the floor like the cantonniere.

Lath

The top of a shade is fitted to this piece of wood, which is usually 2″ x 1″. The lath can be attached to the wall, ceiling, or window frame.

Leading Edge

Where the curtain panels overlap in the center of a two-way traverse rod.

Length

See “Height.”

Lift

The control, usually a cord, which raises and lowers the blinds or shades. Special lifting mechanisms are available including cordless, continuous cord, top down/bottom up, and motorization.

Lift Cord

Nylon cord used to hold together and raise and lower a horizontal blind or shade.

Light Control

The ability to control the amount of incoming light. Blinds or shutters that use slats or louvers provide the best light control. Shades with a Top Down/Bottom Up option also have the ability to control light.

Light Filtering

it is a shade that allows light in while the product is fully lowered. The more opaque a fabric is, the less light will be filtered into the room. Darker-colored fabrics will filter out more light than lighter-colored fabrics.

Light Leakage

A term referring to the amount of light escaping through or around a blind, shutters or shade.

Light Stop

Framing around a shutter panel, added to prevent light leakage.

Liner Options

Light Filtering Privacy Liner: A light-filtering privacy liner applied to the back of the shade providing additional privacy.

Lining

A fabric that is placed behind the face fabric to insulate and protect the fabric from fading and damage. Makes the front fabric have a richer fuller look when lined and adds an element of finish to a drapery treatment. It can be very sheer lining or very heavy lining like black out for sleeping.

Lithium Batteries

All Somfy WireFreerM motors are designed for use with lithium batteries. Lithium batteries offer a greater heat tolerance, which is especially important in window applications. Additionally, Somfy\’s patented battery technology allows the motors to save energy when they are not being used; this technology is based on the use of lithium batteries.

Long Point

Long Point and Short Points are words used for the measurements of length on curved, tiered, or uneven window treatments to determine a long measurement and a short measurement. For instance, a swag valance with cascades would be measured in length at the longest point first – that would be from the top to the bottom of the cascade. This would calculate the “long point” length and the shortest measurement from the swags connecting to each other, or the shortest length, would be called the “short point” length. View Them Here

Louver

An integral part of a shutter that is used to control the amount of light that goes through, similar to the slats of a blind. Louvers are available in 2 ½” and 3 ½” sizes.

Louver Direction

The positions of the louvers tilt; historically, louvers tilt toward the house when shutters are opened.

Louver Pitch

The degree of the angle at which the louvers are positioned

M

Made-to-measure

this means that every one of the treatment is made to the unique requirements.

Max Square Feet

The maximum area (width times height) the blind or shade may be in feet

Mini Blind

Hard window treatment consisting of 1 wide horizontal slats held together with a nylon cord. Blind can both lift and tilt.

Minimum Depth

Minimum depth required to mount the treatment inside the window frame typically, at this depth, the treatment will project slightly

Mitering

it is a diagonal seam that joins two pieces of fabric at a corner.

Modern, ContemporModern, Contemporary Look

A modern contemporary look is simple elegance with straight lines and sleek styles – many are monochromatic in nature and minimalist in style. It is clean, serene, and no fuss.

Moiré

A beautiful silk fabric with a curve ripple effect woven in the fabric as though it were pulled from one side or the other giving it a moir? effect, or blurring of a fine ribbing on a curve in the fabric.

Molding

A shaped strip of material, usually wood, used to decorate a window opening.

Monochromatic Color Tones

several tones of same color base mixed with textures & patterns for added beauty & interest

Motorization

Battery or AC powered option for raising or tilting blinds and shades. Motorized tilt options rotate the slats of a horizontal shade open or closed for light and privacy control at the touch of a button. Motorized lift options raise or lower the entire shade. Motorization offers convenience and ease of operation for almost any window application and is especially useful for hard to reach or large windows.

Mortise

A hole bored into the stile joint to accommodate the tenon.

Mount

Mount refers to whether the blind will be mounted within the window frame (inside mount) or on the wall surrounding the window (outside mount).

Mounting Board

a wooden board installed inside or outside of a window frame to which certain types of window treatments are attached

Mullion

The vertical strip of wood that separates the panes of glass in a window.

Multiple blinds on one head rail

Large blinds can be difficult to raise and lower. Breaking a large blind into two or more smaller ones makes it much easier to operate, and will extend the life of the lifting mechanism. Because the blinds share a single head rail, the window will still have a unified appearance. Please note: there will be a small gap (about 1/2″, but will vary by product) between each of the segments of the blind to prevent them from rubbing together.

N

Nap

A fabric with a texture or design that runs in a single direction

Natural Shades/Natural Woven Shades

Roman style shades made of natural material such as wood, fibers, bamboo, and grasses.

Non Directional Fabric

Fabric that can be rotated at 90-degree intervals and the fabric prints will still be right-side up

Non-Operative Drapery Panels

Stationary drape panels that are attached to either short individual rods, one large pole across the window, or attached to wood fixed to the wall with L-Brackets. These panels are for decoration purposes and do not open or close.

O

OB

Outside bracket, referring to the way the window covering is going to be mounted.

Odor Eliminating Fabrics

these are special fabrics that do not absorb odors from either indoor or outdoor elements like smoke, pets, etc. They are developed of non-absorbent materials like metal, glass, stone, etc.

Opaque

A non-reflective surface that blocks up to 99% of outside light. Opaque is the best choice for bedrooms, children’s rooms, and media rooms.

Openness Factor

It is the percentage of the open fabric dependent on how tight the weave of the fabric is. It is determines the amount of light filtered through the fabric.

Outside Mount

A type of installation that refers to hanging a window treatment on the wall surrounding the window, so that the window treatment overlaps slightly with the wall.

Overlap

The amount added to the window opening size to adequately cover the opening when an outside mount is desired.

Over The Pole Open Swag

These are open swags, either formal or informal, that are open at the top to see through to the wall, window, etc. and are draped over a pole swag with peek-a-boo crescent shaped openings at the top. These window treatments are usually accompanied with cascades and/or jabots. Can be a standalone treatment or used as a top treatment over drapery or panels

P

Palladian Window

A series of windows with an arch on top.

PANEL

A fairly generic term used to describe any four-sided window hanging. Tab-top or rod-pocket are the most common method of hanging.

Passementerie

Fancy decorative trimmings such as tassels, tiebacks and ribbons

Pattern Match

This is where random pattern repeats are matched vertically at the selvage edge to selvage edge so that pattern lines up horizontally at the leading edge of the fabric for the entire treatment to be uniform. Naps of fabric should be matched as well.

Pattern Repeat

The distance between identical motifs in a pattern. It is the total measurement of one complete design. Knowing the distance between the pattern repeats on the fabric is vital in order to join patterned fabric and also is key in determining how much extra fabric to buy.

Pelmet

A panel that covers the top of a curtain. Also called a cornice.

Pencil Pleats

Pleats created using a special tape sewn to the heading of a valance or curtain. When the tape is drawn up, it creates a narrow row of folds resembling a row of pencils laid side by side.

Picture Window

A large window with fixed panes.

Pike Insert

Felt strip used in the side and sill channels to block light.

Pinch Pleats

A style of pleat, usually triple folded, used at the header of curtain window treatments.

Piping

A decorative edge made from bias-cut fabric strips that cover a cord.

Pleat

A fold formed by doubling fabric back upon itself and then pressing or stitching into shape.

Pleater Tape

A ready-made strip sewn to the top of curtain window treatments and attached to the Hanging system.

PLEATED SHADE

Shade made of single layers of crisp, evenly spaced pleated fabric. They are a less expensive alternative to cellular shades, but provide less insulation..

Poplin

A finely ribbed fabric made from silk, wool, cotton or synthetics

Pre-Made Take-Home Draperies Outlet

These are the ready-made drapery you buy that are only a few sizes ready to hang and no customization done on these. Usually sold without lining, but sometimes they do have it. You can adjust the length by raising or lowering the drapery hardware that holds them. Many panels can be placed together on the same pole for extra width or sewn together to eliminate gaps. Usually sold very inexpensively because they are ready made draperies and not custom.

Privacy

Refers to how much of a view is blocked when the window treatment is fully closed. Sheer fabrics do not provide any degree of privacy, while blackout fabrics would be considered fully private

Projection Brackets

see “Extension Brackets”.

Puddle

A puddle is at the bottom of a drape or panel that is excess fabric that lays on the floor around the base of the window treatment and fanned or gathered to form a pool of fabric in a formal environment. This can be a very elegant addition to a otherwise simple window treatment. Puddles can be gathered like a balloon shade at the bottom for a very regal dramatic look, or just lay flat and swirled on the floor. It is usually an additional 10-20 inches more fabric is needed to puddle.

Q

Quick Ship

Denotes a product with limited options that is designed to be fabricated and shipped within a shorter timeframe than other retailers offer.

R

Railroad fabric

This is when bolts of fabric are used “side to side” or used as the width of the bolt will actually become the length of the treatment. It is used often to eliminate seams in sheers. Selvage edge becomes the hem. Railroad means to turn sideways to use.

Railroading

Turning fabric on its side so the width becomes the length. It is used to eliminate seams for sewing valances, cornices, or ruffles.

Ramin Wood

A less expensive hardwood than basswood, Ramin wood is used for many value priced wood blinds.

Raw Materials

Raw materials can be anything nature made like cotton, linen, silk, stone, metal. They came from the earth and in their original finish – rough, raw, edgy, nubby, warm, and unfinished looking in nature but when worked with to form drapery and drapery accessories, portray the richest of any out there. Pure natural beauty..

Recess Window

A window set back into a wall. Curtain window treatments are often hung inside the recess.

Relax Factor

an allowance taken to compensate for the gap that is created when a window treatment that has rings, pleats, or tabs causes a fabric to narrow from the finished width

Remote Control

When a motorized lift or tilt option is selected, a remote control is necessary to operate the blind. One remote control will operate multiple blinds; if ordering more than one motorized blind, you can choose to order only one remote control for all of the blinds in a room.

Repeat

One complete pattern of a fabric measured vertically and/or horizontally

Return

The measurement from the front of the rod to the wall.

Reverse Draw

Vertical blind that draws and stacks away from the controls. It is convenient for use in corners and hard to reach places.

Reverse Roll

Roller shade option where the fabric rolls off the front of the shade, preventing the backside of the fabric from being seen and creating a more streamlined look.

RF

Radio Frequency (RF) Control A remote control medium that utilizes radio waves (similar to garage door remotes)

Right Side

The finished side of fabric

Rod

A metal fixture that holds curtain window treatments instead of a pole.

Rod Pocket

A style of window dressing whose name makes reference to its method of hanging. They have a pocket stitched into them to slide a curtain rod through. Oh, and that extra panel above it? That’s called a “header,” and it’s meant to create a gentle ruffle that softens the top of the panel and draws attention away from the curtain rod. The flat casing that runs the width of the panel. The curtain rod is in the rod pocket.

Room Darkening Privacy Liner

A room-darkening privacy liner applied to the back of the shade providing maximum privacy.

ROLL-UP SHADE

it is sheet of vinyl that hung from a spring-wound tube at the top of the window. Now they are available in a variety of fabrics and translucencies, from sheers to total light blocking, and with a boatload of interesting hardware to choose from. They are still available in white vinyl.

Rolled Curtain

Curtains that roll up into neat bunches of fabric at the top of the window via hooks, loops or ties

Roll pleat/Stack pleat

A pleating method by Graber (also known as Ripple fold by Kirsch). The ripple-like folds of the fabric are created by special track hardware that uses carriers snapping to the top back of the drapery to create this heading style.

Roman Shade

A window shade made from fabric that hangs flat when down but folds like an accordion when raised. Traditionally a fabric shade with wooden slats inserted horizontally at intervals down its entire length. It is raised and lowered via pull cord as with other blinds, but gathers soft folds as it does so. Newer variations include lighter fabrics and pleats without wooden slats, so the folds drape more dramatically when the shade is raised.

Room Darkening

Decreases the amount of light passing through a shade to darken a room. For bedrooms or media rooms where light is a major concern, consider installing the blackout shade using an outside mount. Keep in mind that there is no window treatment that can completely black out a room, but it can reduce up to 99% of the light from passing through.

Rosette

Decorative trim shaped like a rose.

Routeless

Optional slat design for horizontal blinds such as wood, faux wood and mini blinds, in which the cord holes through the slats are offset. This provides increased privacy and light control, tighter closure, and a sleeker look.

RTB

Rod Top and Bottom ; Mostly used for French doors, but indicates a pocket at the top and bottom of the fabric where a rod slides through and fabric is gathered on the rod then stretched between the two rods and attached to the door frame. Sometimes these hourglass panels are used and tied in the middle to give it an “hourglass” shape. These pockets can either be clean or have a header that will create a ruffle when gathered on the rod.

Ruching

A narrow pleated strip of decorative fabric

S

Sash

A frame for holding the glass pane(s) of a window or door, especially a sliding frame. The sash is the frame that holds the smaller rectangular units of a window.

Satellite Eye

It is used on motorized blinds only. The satellite eye is a tiny sensor that detects the remote control. You will be asked to specify which side you want it on. If there is more than one motorized blind in a single room the receiver eye for each blind should be positioned on opposite sides of the blinds for independent control.

Satin

A tightly woven silk that has a lustrous finish that makes it shiny on the top while the underside stays a matte finish. There are cheaper versions in cotton and wool called sateen

Scallops

Deep round curves. It is often seen at the bottom edge of cafe curtain window treatments.

Scarf Window Treatment Idea

One of the easiest and most versatile window treatments, using a long piece of fabric draped over medallions or a decorative rod, or sconces can be used and the fabric pulled through to form an informal swag in the center and two side panels; short or long depending on how long the fabric is. Fabric is usually held in place with two-sided tape once positioned on the hardware. This treatment can stand alone or be a top treatment to underneath panels or drapery. There is little or no sewing on this fabric, as the selvage edge is used on both sides and the fabric chosen may or may not need to be hemmed at the ends.

Seam

The join where two pieces of fabrics are sewn together

Seam Allowance

An extra amount of fabric used when joining fabric

Seamless

This term is used when talking about the width of fabric where it can be turned sideways and “railroaded” making an endless seamless width panel.

Self-Lined

this is when the front fabric is also used as the back lining – or doubled. This is done many times with sheer fabric and sometimes on cascades when no contrasting fabric is desired.

Self-Styling Tape

a stiff tape with woven-in cords used to create pleated and shirred curtains

Selvage

A finished edge that runs the length of the fabric piece.

Selvage Edge

Selvage edge is the outer edges of fabric (the horizontal edges) that come from the factory/mill that are special very strong and durably stitched to keep them from fraying. It is often the “white” edge with no pattern or color given to the fabric along the selvage edge . It is usually considered the left and right sides of the fabric.

Semi-Opaque

Fabric that provides moderate light control, allowing images and shapes to be seen, but not details.

Sconce

A wall-mounted fixture that is great for draping fabric through.

Self-Pelmet

A piece of fabric stitched to the top curtain window treatments to make it appear to be separate.

Sheers

Curtain window treatments made with sheer fabric that allows daylight in while providing limited privacy.

Shirred Curtains

Curtains stretched tightly and gathered on rods at the top and the bottom

Shirring Tape

shirring tape is used to make tops of treatments uniform and consistent in the distance between each pleat, gathers, etc. Often used for pencil pleats, goblet and cartridge pleats, and box and inverted box pleat. Just pull the “string” on the specific shirring tape and it will measure perfectly between pleats for exact placement.

Short Point

Short Point and Long Points are words used for the measurements of length on curved, tiered, or uneven window treatments to determine a short measurement and a long measurement. For instance, a swag valance with cascades would be measured in length at the longest point – that would be from the top to the bottom of the cascade. This would calculate as the “long point” length and the shortest measurement from the swags connecting to each other at the pole to the shortest drop of the swag, or the shortest length, would be called the “short point” length. See the Difference between Short Point and Long Point Here

Shrinking

it is the decrease of fabric size over time due to its elasticity.

Sill

The narrow shelf running horizontally at the bottom of some windows.

Sky Light Shades

A shade provided with special hardware that is mountable to a ceiling window or skylight.

Slats

An integral part of a horizontal blind that is used to control the amount of light that goes through.

Spacer Blocks

Used to add an extra 1/2″ or 1″ of depth to the head rail. Spacer blocks are usually used to avoid obstructions such as molding around a window. It is available for outside mount applications only.

SHUTTER

Wooden hinged or solid panels that may be folded across a window to diffuse light and add privacy. Shutters for windows are also a great way to add architectural interest to a room and look great either painted or stained. The shutters with adjustable louvers function in much the same way as venetian blinds in that they may be opened to admit light and allow a partial view outside while maintaining a fair amount of privacy inside. Shutters with louvers that are over two inches wide are sometimes referred to as “Plantation Shutters.”

Silk

A very strong, yet soft fabric made from threads produced by silkworms.

Smocked Heading

A diagonal puckering to resemble the old fashioned smock frocks at the top of drapery, curtains, valances, and also used on decorative pillows and bedding ensembles. Similar to shirring except the pleating looks more like puckers and forms diamond shapes in the puckered fabric.

Smocked Pleats

It is a heading that resembles a hand-worked smocked pattern.

Splice

Metal bar that is used to join two pieces of drapery track together to form one larger drapery track.

Spring-Tension Rod

An adjustable rod that fits inside the window frame. The internal spring makes it possible to adjust this rod.

STACK-BACK

It refers to the amount of space a panel or drape will take up when pulled back to open the window. For example, a lightweight silk taffeta panel may only have two or three inches of stack-back, but a well-lined floor length velvet drape may have up to seven or eight

Stagecoach Valance

A panel of fabric mounted on a board, and attached to the inside frame of a narrow window

Stationary Side Panels

Creates a tailored casual look that is immobile, or stationary, drapery treatment of panels on either or both sides of a window to frame it and decorate it but has little else use. Sometimes side stationary panels are used to block light gaps between blinds and shades and the window frame. Sometimes stationary side panels are accompanied by a top treatment of swags, valance, or cornice box.

Straight Grain

The lengthwise threads of a fabric, running parallel to the selvages

Stretching

it is the Increase of fabric size over time due to its elasticity.

Style

it is style simply means the patterns, textures, types, and designs of window treatments that appeal to you. In style or out of style, if you don’t like it – it has no style. Your opinion is the only one that counts in your home.

Sunburst

A fabric treatment that is usually arched, semi-circle, or circled that fabric is shirred around the outside of a wood frame to form the shape then gathered in the center like a fan. The fabric is usually a sheer fabric so light can travel through it; however, if it is in a bedroom; some workrooms cover the back of the sunburst with black out lining to block the light from passing through. It is Very commonly used in arches and port holes to dress up the area and also filter the light.

Support

A pole or track that holds a curtain window treatment or shade.

Swag

Curtain window treatments that can be hung on a rod or attached to a mounting board. A length of fabric loosely draped over a rod can be dressed to form a casual style swag treatment

Swag Panel Drapery

This is free-form single panel (sometimes using bed sheets).This is a single width of fabric per side that is self-lined and flat like for draping. Usually there is paddling on the floor of the excess fabric and the free-form panels are bound to make casual swags then continue to casual gathered panels. It can use ties or knots. This is a common treatment for tall arched windows.

SWAG SET

It is two piece swag. It may also be combined with an insert — a short valance of complementary color or fabric which is hung between the two half-swags.

Swatch

This is a small piece of fabric or slat that we’ll send to you if you request a sample.

Swing Arm

A type of drapery rod specifically used for French doors and inward swinging windows. The rod is jointed at the base by a hinge so the French doors may be covered or uncovered by the swinging motion of the rod at the hinge. Usually finished in a sheer fabric, but must be finished on both sides of the fabric treatment due to both sides exposed with the swing.

Swivel Bracket

Special brackets used only for cellular shades. Swivel brackets are used to ease installation when a window does not have enough depth to accommodate traditional mounting brackets.

Synchronous

It is moving at precisely the same time.

T

TAB TOP

A style of window treatment whose name makes reference to the method of hanging. A tab top panel is a panel with flat fabric loops at the top. These provide a great opportunity to make use of decorative curtain rods and finials. Be conscious of the fabric when choosing tab tops. Heavy twill will maintain a fairly rigid shape and give your windows a tidy, contemporary feel, while cotton gauze will have a pronounced drape and impart a light, airy feel to a room. A fabric that drapes more may also reveal the top of your window, so watch the height of your curtain rod.

Taffeta

Silk fabric that uses two different colors of thread making it appear a different color depending on how it is held in the light or how folded. It is Tightly woven luxurious fabric. Can also be crushed with permanent wrinkles, casts both colors used in the thread weaving.

Tail

The fabric that hangs from the end of swag.

Tapes

Vertical strips of fabric, usually one to two inches wide that are used to hold a blind together. Tapes are not threaded through the slats like ladders; when the blinds are closed, the tapes will run straight down the front surface. Available on many wood, faux wood and 2″ mini blinds, cloth tapes improve light control and privacy while adding a decorative accent.

Tapestry

Hand woven wools or silk that denotes a scene usually or floral or paisley patterns. Usually bold in nature and very heavy Used mainly for upholstery pieces or scarves over fine drapery. Machine-woven fabric that looks hand-woven.

Tassels

The plastic or wooden bead placed on the bottom of the lift cord. Also the nylon ornament attached to the poles of a roller shade.

Telescoping

Lateral movement of a panel as it rolls up or down.

Tenon

A projection on the end of a rail made to fit into a mortise, thereby creating a joint.

Thermal Lining

Fabric that is layered with aluminum on one side for insulation.

Tieback

Fabric, rope, ribbon, trim, or other mate

TIERS

These generally consist of four short panels, each about the length of 1/2 the height of the window in which they are to be hung. One pair is hung at the top of the window and the other halfway down. The bottom pair may then be opened to admit fresh air or closed for privacy while the top is opened to let in sunlight. These are similar to and often interchangeable with Cafe Curtains.

Tilt

The position (and mechanism, if applicable) of the control that tilts the slats of the blind open and closed. It is usually most convenient to have the tilt control and the lift control on opposite sides of the blind

Tilt Cord

Used instead of a wand tilt to tilt the treatments slats open and closed.

Tilt Wand

Wooden or plastic wand used to control the tilt mechanism in a horizontal blind.

Tilter

Mechanism located in the head rail used to tilt the slats of the treatment open and closed.

Toile

it is usually cotton in nature; fabric is usually one color on white or beige background depicting a scene that is randomly repeated all over the fabric. It is very common in drapery and bedding, is an ageless choice, always fresh looking.

Top Down

A shade option that opens from the top down instead from the bottom up. When completely open, the fabric stacks at the bottom of the window.

Top Down/Bottom Up

It is a versatile shade option that opens from the top down and from the bottom up.IT uses a set of lift cords to open either from the top down or from the bottom up, or both at the same time. This option is very good for protecting your privacy while still allowing light in.

Top Treatment

This is used in conjunction with Valances and Cornices – sometimes referred to as “toppers” – these treatments can be standalone window dressing or accompany drapes by framing the window top to add a more finished look to drapery ensemble. They also hide unsightly hardware and installation brackets.

Transformer

A device used to transfer electrical energy from one circuit to another. In motorization, transformers are used to lower the 110 VAC current from a standard electrical outlet to either 12VDC or 24 VDC depending of the type of motor being used.

Traverse Rod

Adjustable drapery rods that open and close the window treatment by pulling a cord

Triple Fullness

A fabric panel that is three times the width of the window

Trim

A decoration or adornment on a window treatment

Triple Cell

A type of cellular shade construction that offers superior insulation by using three layers of cellular fabric.

Two or more blinds on one head rail

Large blinds can be difficult to raise and lower. Breaking a large blind into two or more smaller ones makes it much easier to operate, and will extend the life of the lifting mechanism. Because the blinds share a single head rail, the window will still have a unified appearance. Please note: there will be a small gap (about 1/2″, but will vary by product) between each of the segments of the blind to prevent them from rubbing together.

V

Valance

A top window treatment that can stand alone or be mounted over curtains.

Vanes

The slats or louvers made of plastic or fabric and mounted onto a headsail for vertical blinds

Velvet

A luxuriously thick fabric for drapery with a deep pile that is cut during weaving two face fabrics together then separating them by cutting in two, or cutting the loop of one fabric to make a thick deep pile. Silk and mohair are the more popular but can be done with linen and synthetic fabrics, too. Like Chenille, it can look a different color depending on the direction; can look iridescent even though iridescent threads were not used

Vertical Blinds

An ideal window treatment for patio doors and wide expansive windows. The vanes work as excellent insulators under light and extreme temperatures.

Voile

Light plain-weave cotton fabric often used for a sheer curtain window treatment.

W

Wall Mount

A standard type of installation for verticals, in which the head rail is mounted on the wall surrounding the door or window.

Warp

the direction threads run in a fabric. Warp runs the length.

Weft

The direction threads run in a fabric. Weft runs across the width

Weights

Small metal discs placed in the hem of curtain window treatments to make it hang better.

Width

1) It is the distance between the selvages of all fabrics.2) Refers to the horizontal measurement of the blind in inches.

Window Covering Designs

Window covering designs is a compilation of many stages of design. One must have a thought in order to design a window covering. First the thought, then transfer it to paper, and then make sure all the elements of the drawing can actually be fabricated. What is on paper cannot necessarily be produced. But the actual idea put on paper is the actual window covering design.

Window Seat

The area where the shutter rests in the closed position.

Window Toppers

this term is used very loosely today, but it really does have a specific definition. These are drapery valances and rod pocket valances that are mounted to a board and are mounted above the window by L-Brackets. These are non-operable valances due to their stationary nature. Topper Styles are commonly balloons with a pouf at the bottom, box pleated with returns wrapping on the ends, and a mock roman or hobble with multiple horizontal folds resembling a roman shade except it is non-operable and sometimes accompany ties on the ends or borders

Wired Technology

A control technology that has a switch wired directly to the motor; this option requires a licensed electrician.

Wool

it is an excellent fabric for drapery and upholstery. It is usually made into other fabric finishes like chenille or damask. Wool is often used for tartans of very colorful patterns claimed by countrymen an individual pattern to belong to that clan. It is a very strong and soft fabric when worsted or combed. A few different kinds include cashmere, alpaca, mohair, and angora.

Wrong Side

The back of the fabric that is less finished and may have stray threads or a more rough look to it