BLOG, Drapes

Harlequin refers to a stylish pattern of curtains named for their pattern reminiscent of the 16th and 17th Century harlequin. The unique ‘harlequin’ pattern first graced the stages of the Italian commedia cellaret, an improvisational stage comedy that was popular in Italy during this time. The harlequin character was a buffoonish caricature (sort of like England’s court jester) who traditionally wore flamboyantly coloured diamond-patterned tights and an ornate mask. The harlequin pattern of bright diamond checks was made popular on curtains and valances during this time and is still popular today. Harlequin curtains and window coverings are still featured in ornately decorated rooms in loud diamond patterns of 3 or more contrasting colours – purple, gold and green were popular harlequin hues. Harlequin curtains are often fixed with bejewelled or silk cord tiebacks for added garnish. Authentic harlequin curtains are made of 100% Venetian silk.

Sharkskin material is most identifiable by its smooth finished texture and two-toned twill weave fabric that is most commonly found in curtains, worsted suits, lightweight women’s sportswear and gentlemen’s coats. Sharkskin curtains are said to resemble a basket weave pattern. Sharkskin yarn strands are alternately white and coloured which results in the coloured lines running diagonally opposite to the white lines. Sharkskin curtains are most commonly found made of acetate or rayon, or in a blend of the two. This material is very popular for making curtains because it launders well. However, sharkskin material has a tendency to yellow with age, especially in white or pale sharkskin curtains.

A drape is an old-fashioned, fancy term used to describe heavyweight fabric curtains. Drapes are often featured in a home with a large front window. Drapes, like curtains, are hung from simple rod-pockets or metal drapery hooks which insert into pinch-pleats. But unlike curtains, floor-length drapes can be attached to a traverse rod and opened and closed via a cord mechanism that hangs to the left or right of the window frame. Draperies used with traverse rods work best with large windows with plenty of space surrounding. In the past it was considered unacceptable to hang drapes without a pair of polyester sheers underneath, but today interior decorators achieve a romantic look by hanging heavy velvet drapes in a bare window. Tailored, pleated drapes made of woven jacquard fabric, velvet, damask or silk generally lend a more traditional appearance to a formal entertaining area such as a living room; while lighter drapes of cotton, linen or cotton blends lend a more les a fair feel to a room.

Have you ever find yourself standing in an empty room and one of the first things your eyes will be drawn to are the windows including their shape, size, and the light that shining through them. Windows offer us panoramic views to the outside world. Window treatments can completely change the mood, look and feel of a home. For something that takes up so little space, window coverings can control atmosphere. Your choice of window covering will be largely dominated by your chosen colour and style, however a window covering will determine how much sunlight enters the room, and the size of a window covering can add or lessen the height of a room or create an aura of formality or comfort. Then that’s where we end up with Window Treatments.