A

  • 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. A wonderful 80's floral look but its coming back!

  • Architrave

    Wooden surround of a window or door.

B

  • 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.

C

  • Cleat

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

  • Chain system

    This is an alternative to using string to operate blinds & does not require a cleat or weight. Must have safety clip to hold in the place. Available in white, chrome or brass.

D

  • Double pleat

    Double pleats are formed by pinching fabric twice. This is a good alternative to a triple pleat. Can be finished with a button.

  • Drop heading

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

E

  • Eyelets

    Round metal rings are "punched" into the top of the curtain allowing it to be threaded onto a pole. A variety of finishes are available.

F

  • 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.

G

  • Goblet

    A stuffed rounded single pleat, can be finished with a button. Can be known as a cartridge pleat too.

H

  • Holdback

    Metal or wooden decorative bracket used for holding back curtains. Used as an alternative to tie-backs but looks great with tiebacks too.

I

  • 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.

L

  • Lining

    Plain cotton based fabric used as a backing for curtains blinds etc. Protects the fabric and helps it to drape better.

  • London blind

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

P

  • 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. Can be a variety of shapes and finishes.

  • 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.

R

  • Roman blind

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

  • Rope/tassel tie-backs

    Used as an alternative to fabric tie-backs.

S

  • Single

    Single pleats are formed by pinching fabric once. Good for limited stack back.

  • Swags & tails

    Not just for stately homes. Swags and tails are surprisingly versatile and are easily adapted to the modern home.

T

  • Tiebacks

    A decorative band of fabric used to hold open curtains and keep them dressed in place.

  • Triple pleat

    Also know as Pinch or French.

V

  • Venetian blinds

    These blinds can be made from wood or metal.

W

  • Window Valance

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