Drapery Panels

Drapery Panels

Understanding Drapery Styles
By Chris R. Stanley - Ezinearticles

Most people aren't aware of the variety of drapery styles available. From rod pocket drapery to ring top drapery - with clips or rings - to French pleat drapery and grommet drapery, there are styles to complete the look of any interior design. The following five styles are among the most popular:

* Rod pocket drapery panels are designed so the curtain fabric wraps around the drapery rod without any clips or grommets. The drapery pocket sewn into the top of the fabric will accommodate any drapery rod up to 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Each rod pocket drapery panel comes with fullness so enter the size area you need to cover. Just as with textiles, some drapes are made overseas and some are hand sewn in the USA. Check with manufacturers if you prefer products made in the US.

* Ring Top Drapery Panels have clip on rings. The rings then attach to the drape and fit over a drapery rod. Most rings are made of either wood or metal finishes. Rods are also available in wood and metal frames and a variety or finishes - matted metal, different color stains and more. Liners are usually available as an upgrade.

* Ring Top Drapery comes with sewn in drapery rings. Rings are available in a variety of finishes to accent the drapery hardware and rod. Drapery rings are included with choice of either metal or wood rings. Metal rings generally accommodate a drapery rod up to 1 1/2 inch in diameter while wood rings usually accommodate a curtain rod up to 1 3/8 inch in diameter.

* French pleat drapery panels bring a European flair to any home. The tucked pleat in the front brings a quaint charm to any room. These blinds are attached with a clip on the back that hooks into a pin. The fabric appears to sit above the rod, concealing most of the rod except the ends. Decorative ends can be used to dress up the curtains.

* Grommet drapery panels have a grommet or bronze ring sewn into the fabric. The hole in the ring is what goes over the curtain rod. Grommet panels are fairly common.

Consumers will be happy to know there are window treatments and drapes that are sewn exclusively in the United States.

Drapes are some of the most versatile window treatments in terms of fabric choices. Fabrics may be heavier silks and satins for a more formal look, or they can be lightweight linens for a clean, soft look. Some drapes are embroidered for added detailing in decorating, while others offer simple lines for background ambiance.

Drapery Panels

Curtain rods also come in a variety of styles and finishes. Rod ends can be purchased in standard wood or bronze, or to excite things, blown art glass and ceramic ends can finish off a room nicely. Drapery styles offer privacy, protection from glare, but most importantly, they bring style to a home.