If you are in fact considering having custom drapery made. Here are a few points to ponder.

“Pattern repeat”. Fabrics with a “pattern repeat” are generally fabrics with a small pattern to a large or bold pattern. The larger the pattern the more fabric is wasted on matching the pattern, the more expensive it will be. Calculations are made to account for the pattern repeat. Not only will you need more yardage of fabric, but take into consideration the way the pattern will ultimately look when it’s rippled. 

The pattern that was lovingly chosen may not look the same as it did when it was lying flat in the sample book or on the bolt.

When a patterned fabric is chosen with a box or inverted pleat heading the pattern may not sit at the top as you pictured. At worse, the pattern may look jumbled. Don’t let this discourage you from that bold pattern.   If you get to this point and you’re unsure, consider hiring a pro to help you make these decisions as they can be costly mistakes.

Here’s a note about the lady who sews all my drapery.

Meet Dora.

Dora is an accomplished seamstress.  She grew up with it around her. She tells me her mom was a seamstress for Sears when Sears had a custom drapery workroom in Kitchener.

Dora has been in business since 1986. When she’s not working she enjoys spending time with her kids, travelling- favourite destinations are NYC, Cyprus, Bahamas to name a few.

She enjoys comedy shows and live music and of course watching Jonathan (her son) perform whenever possible.

I asked her what her favourite draperies are?  Her favourite drapery, right now, are panels- lined full size panels. “Working with quality fabric and decorative trim is my absolute favourite”!! 

“Most of my contacts are in the design community”.

When my seamstress of 20 years retired I had to look for someone new. I haven’t known Dora for very long. My experience with Dora has been very positive, she’s professional and always willing to explore new ideas and possibilities. This is important to me because new designs and ideas  are only as good as the person who will execute them. I value her input and would recommend her to anyone.

Here is her contact.

https://draperiesbydora.ca

Follow her on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest.

Bay and Bow Windows

Bay windows are very special. If you’re one of the lucky ones to be blessed to have a bay window, dress it accordingly. Use the same general rules as with a standard drape. Keep in mind the height in which the drape will be mounted and the directions or stack back of the drapes when they are opened.

A bay window rod is a little different, it should be a continuous rod with an elbow or a moving joint that will allow for the exact angle degree of your bay or bow window.  I’ve seen drapery mounted on the outside of the bay; the drapery did not conform to the window but went straight across the outside of the entire window. This is a shame because not only is the drapery robbing you of space in the bay but it also covers up a beautiful architectural element in the room. 

In the end, beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Try thinking outside the box. If its well made with quality fabric, most likely the turnout will be a positive one.

Lastly, avoid buying your drapery for a space that’s been well thought out and planned from a store where you buy your groceries, drywall and screws!

Please send me your comments or questions, I’d love to hear about your drapery ideas, please send me photos too!