CURTAIN & BLIND GLOSSARY

• Austrian blind: This type of blind has several rows of rings sewn on the back. When blind is open a scalloped effect is formed along the bottom.

• Architrave: Wooden surround of a window or door.

• Bed valance: A decorative, made to measure, cover for a divan base.

• Blackout lining: Dense heavy lining that blocks light.

• Braid: A woven ribbon for trimming or edging curtains, cushions & other accessories.

• Cleat: Type of hook used to hold open a Roman, Austrian, London or Festoon blind.

• Double pleat: Double pleats are formed by pinching fabric twice. This is a good alternative to a triple pleat.

• Drop heading: Also know as stand-up heading. Creates a frill at the top of the curtains.

• Drop weight: Can also be called an acorn. It is a weight tied to the end of the blind cord.

• Chain system: This is an alternative to using string to operate blinds & does not require a cleat or drop weight.

• Festoon blind: This is similar to an Austrian blind but with additional vertical gathers.

• French pleat: Also know as pinch or triple pleat.

• Fringe: A decorative edging with hanging threads or tassels.

• Holdback: Metal or wooden decorative bracket used for holding back curtains. Used as an alternative to tie-backs.

• Interlining: A soft yet thick fabric that adds bulk to and improves the drape of curtains, pelmets, swags & tails. It also acts as a layer of insulation.

• Inverted pleat: Reversed single pleat.

• Lining: Plain cotton available in a ranged of colours used as a backing for curtains blinds etc. Helps with the drape of the curtains & protects the fabric from sun damage.

• London blind: This is a fuller blind that has inverted pleats creating a swag & tail effect.

• Pattern repeat: Length of the pattern before it repeats itself.

• Pelmet: An upholstered piece of wood fitted at the top of the window used to support curtain track.

• Piping: Decorative edging to a “finish” cushions, pelmets & tie-backs. Can be used as well as or instead of trim.

• Pinch pleat: Also know as triple or French pleat.

• Roman blind: This is a flat piece of material with horizontal rods allowing blind to open in folds.

• Venetian blinds: These blinds can be made from wood or metal.

• Window valance: A pleated decorative band of fabric that hangs at the top of the curtains or blind to hide curtain track.

• Single: Single pleats are formed by pinching fabric once.

• Swags & tails: This is the design style that most people associate with grand ballrooms, elegant dining rooms as well as stately homes. Swags and tails are surprisingly versatile and are easily adapted.

• Rope/tassel tie-backs: used as an alternative to fabric tie-backs.

• Tie-backs: A decorative band of fabric used to hold open curtains.

• Triple pleat: Also know as Pinch or French.

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