Lance Crandell Lance Crandell

Custom or Store Bought Drapery

It all begins with an idea.

When you start your journey of decorating a living space drapery is not high on the list. Most people start by choosing the obvious things like furniture, wallpaper, rugs and lighting fixtures. After all of that makes a sizable dent in the budget you might consider drapery, but where do you buy it from? Custom drapery involves you choosing the fabric in bulk and then hiring a seamstress to make it into the style (pinch-pleat, ripple-fold, grommet) you want. This involves a lot of time and industry knowledge to do. Store bought drapery, also known as ready made drapery, has a much faster turn around from research to purchase but has limitations. Unlike custom, the ready made drapery typically only comes in certain widths and lengths. Cost is one of the biggest reasons people choose ready made vs custom but that comes with its own challenges like not knowing the quality of the fabric or the style of stitching used.

To wrap up my thought on this topic, I encourage you to research by visiting your closest textile store and ask questions about cost. Go online and try to choose drapery that fits your living space as close as possible using fabric you think you like. Budget, your time involved and your willingness to learn will ultimately be the deciding factors.

Have Fun!

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Lance Crandell Lance Crandell

Are Shutters a Good Idea

It all begins with an idea.

This question is one of the most asked questions by people building a new home. Window shutters can increase a home's value by improving curb appeal, energy efficiency, security, and privacy, making them an attractive feature for potential buyers. Shutters are considered a custom finish and a capital improvement by some real estate agents, and they can also lead to a quicker sale by making a home stand out from the competition.

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Lance Crandell Lance Crandell

Are Big Bold Draperies IN?

It all begins with an idea.

Big, bold draperies can be a worthwhile investment, especially for larger rooms or spaces with neutral decor. They can add drama, luxury, and personality, but may not be the best choice for small spaces or homes with minimal natural light. The value depends on your design goals and willingness to address potential drawbacks like cost and maintenance. 

Benefits of big, bold draperies

  • Adds drama and luxury: Rich, heavy fabrics like velvet, especially when hung floor-to-ceiling, create a grand, high-end feel.

  • Anchors a room: In a space with neutral walls and furnishings, bold drapes serve as an intentional focal point, drawing the eye upward and creating a "high-design" look.

  • Introduces color and texture: They are a low-effort way to add visual interest. Options include solid, vibrant hues or complex patterns like geometric or large-scale floral prints.

  • Frames your windows: Statement curtains turn windows from an afterthought into a feature.

  • Provides a cozy feel: Heavy drapes create a "cocooning" effect, making a space feel warmer and more inviting.

  • Improves energy efficiency: The thickness of the fabric provides insulation, helping to keep rooms cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.

  • Reduces noise: Heavy fabric helps to dampen sound, which can be useful if you live on a busy street.

  • Enhances privacy: For those who live in high-traffic areas, thick drapes provide an extra layer of protection from prying eyes. 

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Lance Crandell Lance Crandell

Why Hire a Professional Installer?

It all begins with an idea.

You should hire a professional drapery installer to ensure precise measurements and a perfect fit, achieve a polished and sophisticated look, avoid costly damage to your home or window treatments, and save time and effort on a task that requires specialized tools and skills. Professionals also handle complex installations, provide warranty compliance, and offer valuable design advice, leading to greater long-term satisfaction and a more elevated outcome. 

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