Showing posts tagged with: custom window treatments

See Superior Results With Custom Window Hardware vs. Off the Shelf

by Amy Meinecke

03 20, 2023 | Posted in Education | 0 comments

    See Superior Results with Custom Window Hardware vs. Off the Shelf Many people don't realize the complexities of window hardware and how difficult it can be to install. The ease with which one can purchase curtain rods at department stores pales compared to the time and patience it takes to match decor and create the right look and feel for any room. Let's take a look at your custom window hardware options.  Window Drapery Hardware Basics You essentially have five components to drapery hardware.

  • Rod
  • Rings
  • Brackets
  • Finials
  • Wands
You could chose a straight or French rod, which curves back into the wall. If you use the french rod, you won't need finials, the decorative end pieces that complete the look and feel of your decor. If you want to avoid grommet or rod-pocket drapery design, you should hang your draperies from rings. And regardless of the type of rod, you'll need brackets. When you open and close draperies with a wand, you avoid tugging on the fabric. Over time pulling on the fabric risks damaging your draperies. And this is just the beginning.   Difficult Window Types and Shapes   Windows come in all sizes and shapes, and they don't always lend themselves to easy window dressing design! These exceptional cases often require custom window treatment hardware. Here's a list of some of the more difficult challenges you could face and a professional tip to help you out.
  • Wall of windows (leaving no wall space for rod brackets)
    • Tip:  Try a motorized ceiling track
  • Bay Windows
    • Tip: Try a curved or angled rod joined at the corners with hinges. This involves custom-cut hardware.
  • Tall, imposing windows
    • Tip: Most height issues are from windows on 2 story walls. Hiring a professional installer is highly recommended for this .
  • Slanted Windows
    • Tip: Choose medallion window shades.
  • Shuttered Windows
    • Tip: Try a pair of swing-arm rods.
  • Recessed Windows
    • Tip: Mount draperies just inside the nook, creating a pleasing sanctuary or haven.
  • Curved Windows
    • Tip: Try a custom curved rod.
  • Arched Windows
    • Tip: Shutters or honeycomb shades are an excellent option, but so is leaving it bare, with a light cafe curtain across the lower panes of the glass.
  • Arched French doors
    • Tip: Try curved rods
Although curved rods solve many difficult window treatment situations, they need to be measured and made to order from a custom hardware company. These companies don't typically sell to the public, so you need to contact a Window Treatment company or Interior Designer.   Are you facing a challenging window design?                      Call Window Works Studio for custom window hardware solutions!   Hanging Your Draperies Before you begin installing your draperies, you'll want to gather the right tools and resources to make it as easy as possible. Here are some items you should have handy.
  • Drill
  • Metal tape measure
  • Level
  • Pencil
  • Step Ladder
  • Wall Anchors
Read the installation instructions that came with your drapes or drapery rods, and check to see if you need additional resources before you get started. 4 Steps to Hanging Your Draperies Hanging draperies can be intimidating for uninitiated. So, let's take this step by step. Step 1: Choose the Height How high do you want your draperies? If you hang your rod directly above the window frame, you may end up with short, squat-looking windows. Step 2: Install the Rod Measure the space along the wall you intend to install the rod and mark off the bracket locations with a pencil. Use your level to check that your markings are even. Then use a drill to install the brackets and hang the rod on the brackets. Caution! If you're installing your drapery rods into drywall, be sure you're mounting the brackets into the wall frame (studs). If you can't find studs, use wall anchors. If you skip this step, you run the risk of loose brackets. Depending on the weight of your draperies, they could tear out of the wall. Step 3: Hang Your Drapery    You can hang some draperies directly onto the rod, but not all. So, let's outline different drapery types with step-by-step installation directions. How to Install Rod Pocket Drapery Rod pocket draperies are designed with a sleeve at the top of the drapery. Insert the drapery pole through the sleeve of each drapery panel before you place the rod on the brackets. How to Install Pleated Drapery The most common way to hang pleated draperies with pins and rings. Insert the drapery pins into the back of each pleat and insert into the curtain eyelets. Then hang the drapery on the rod. How to Install Grommet Drapery With grommet drapes, the rings are built into the fabric panels and reinforced with metal grommets. To maximize coverage, insert the rod into the first grommet with the excess fabric pointing inward toward the wall. Continue inserting the rod through the remaining grommets in an S-like weave. Window Works Studio's Tip for a Finished Look Once you've hung your drapes, train them! This involves steaming them to remove the wrinkles and make the drapes moldable. After steaming, shape the fabric with hands to help it form waves in and out according to the waves the pleats create. However, a word of caution: choose your heat settings carefully, so you don't damage the material. Outfitting your windows with custom window hardware and draperies may be a time-consuming, daunting task, but you'll love the results!    

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Are Motorized Window Treatments Worth It?

by Alan Kirby

06 04, 2021 | Posted in Education | 0 comments

        A Quick Guide to Motorized Window Treatments and Their Benefits We live in a time of unparalleled engineering and technology. Many of the tools we use in our daily lives are conveniences we wouldn't have dreamed of a decade or two ago. Or, if they existed, we considered them novelties. Not so long, motorized window treatments may have seemed like this. Now, they're a popular seller. You may be wondering, though: Are motorized window treatments worth it? Keep reading to find out just how useful this type of window covering can be!    What Are Motorized Window Treatments? Motorized blinds for windows are probably just what you're imagining. They're window coverings with a motorized design. They can tilt open or closed, lift up or down, or slide back and forth with only the touch of a button. Many motorized blinds and shades are operated with a remote control, but some work through simple touch. For example, motorized blinds by Hunter Douglas feature a Soft Touch model that are moveable with a gentle push or pull of the wand. Many motorized blinds are battery operated, but some are hardwired for an electrical connection. There are even a number of options for solar-powered motorized blinds. Motorized Roman shades are another option. We custom design and fabricate Roman shades at our shop here in Jamestown, offering you the fabrics, prints, patterns, and colors you want for your home. Plus, we can then motorize and install the shades for you. If you prefer the look of drapery, but still want a motorized product, we can use custom drapery rods that open and close with the touch of a button. These custom rods can plug directly into your electrical outlet or work with a rechargeable battery.    Top 3 Benefits of Motorized Blinds and Shades While they may seem like a luxury, motorized blinds offer a number of benefits for any homeowner:   

  • They're child and pet safe. 
Window blind cords are notorious safety hazards for younger and furrier family members. Motorized blinds eliminate this concern.
  • They make it easy to operate blinds in difficult-to-reach locations.
If your windows are up high , it can be impossible to operate them without the aid of a ladder or other precarious options. Motorized blinds for windows allow you to adjust the window coverings to your liking, any time, from the comfort of your chair. Motorized blinds for skylights are also and option. Many people leave skylights uncovered because it would be difficult or impossible to reach them. But motorized blinds make the convenience of blinds possible even in this area of your home.
  • They allow you to customize the lighting in your home- without the hassle. 
If you want to darken a room for Tv viewing, a sleeping baby, or any other reason, you can immediately close motorized blinds with the touch of a button... then open them again as soon as you're ready. Or, you can connect the motorized system to your router and control your window treatments with your smart phone, as well as, pre-set times of day for the shades to open and close on their own. If lights-out periods are a common need in your home, you may want to check out motorized blackout blinds. Hunter Douglas' Lightlock blinds are a great option. And don't forget one of the largest areas of natural light in your home: your patio doors. Motorized blinds for sliding glass doors will open and shut from side to side.   Are Motorized Blinds Worth It For Your Home?  With the genuine benefits motorized blinds can bring to your home and lifestyle, choosing them may seem like a no-brainer. But with the variety of options available, the next question is centered on which style-or styles-to choose. A Window Works Studio, we can make that choice easy for you. We're window experts who are familiar with all of the available options, including motorized blinds installation. As a Hunter Douglas-authorized dealer, we can walk you through the different models they have and help you select the best one for you. Or, if you prefer a more customized look, we can create motorized Roman Shades or drapery for you in our shop. Give us a call today to get started!   Ready to bring safety and convenience to your window coverings? Motorized blinds and shades are the answer! Choose from a wide range of motorized blinds-and we can custom design your motorized Roman Shades and Drapery! Call us at 336-854-6085 to learn more.       

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6 Ways Energy- Efficient Curtains Improve Your Home

by Alan Kirby

05 10, 2021 | Posted in Education | 0 comments

  Homeowners are always looking for information on how to save money on heating and cooling. So, today we’re going to address six ways that energy-efficient curtains can improve your home—and reduce utility costs.    #1: Energy-Efficient Curtains Help You Save Money on Utility Bills   Insulating material is rated by R-values. The higher the value, the more insulating effect you achieve. Most energy loss occurs through the windows of your home. This is because windows have a lower R-value than walls. And older homes with original windows cause homeowners much discouragement as cold air seeps into their homes during winter. So, how to make your home more energy efficient ? Window treatments are a great place to start. To achieve better energy efficiency, you need window treatments that exceed an R-1 value. Professionally installed thermal curtains can achieve up to R-6, significantly reducing heating and cooling loss—which equates to savings on your utility bills.      Cold Season During winter, most homes experience heat loss and cold air influx through windows, which attract heat then transfer it from the interior surface to the exterior. As warm air escapes, your home heating bill increases.    Hot Season During summer, homes experience the opposite. Cool air, often cooled by central air conditioning, collects on windows. The windows, in turn, transfer that coolness from their interior surfaces to the outdoors. As your central air works harder to maintain the cool temperatures in your home, it needs more energy. Your energy bill increases, and your central cooling system’s life expectancy decreases.    Are you considering energy-efficient home improvements? Schedule a consultation TODAY to discuss the best energy-efficient curtains for your indoor AND outdoor spaces.      #2: Drapery Can Save Energy and Reduce Noise Want to block traffic noise while you’re trying to sleep? In addition to keeping your home warm or cool, drapery and thermal liners add a noise-reduction layer to your energy-efficient curtains for bedroom windows and more. Cellular Shades Manufacturers have copied nature to create these highly effective, energy-efficient window treatments. The cells, which resemble a honeycomb, trap air inside their pockets. This trapped air provides a layer of insulation that prevents windows from transferring warmth or heat from inside your home to the outdoors. Shutters Shutters are an attractive addition to your interior décor that also provides another layer of insulation for your windows. Installed securely to the window frame, shutters close gaps that tend to allow indoor air to escape and outdoor air to infiltrate your indoor spaces. And closed shutters provide the same benefits as light-blocking curtain liners.  Solar Shades Do you wish you could bring the outdoors indoors? Solar shades allow you to see the beauty that surrounds your home without compromising energy efficiency. This solution blocks UV rays with an opaque and sufficiently transparent material that satisfies your desire to incorporate your unique view or landscape into your interior design.  Roman Shades Created with a thick insulating material, roman shades present another opportunity to save money on your energy bill while beautifying your interior. Appropriate for modern or classic design, roman shades with thermal backings provide a uniquely stylish energy efficiency that you can match to your room’s décor.   #3: Interlining Adds Luxury and Protection Draperies often include an interlining between the outer layer and the backing. These inner linings can be made from flannel, cotton, or even silk. They provide volume and fullness to your drapes, creating a luxurious look and allowing the drapes to fall elegantly over the window. Plus, they also add to your draperies’ energy efficiency. Does your home include stylish bay windows? Do you know how much energy your home loses through those gorgeous French doors? Enhance your home’s beauty and improve energy efficiency with luxurious interlined curtains for bay windows. And energy-efficient curtains for French doors can help stop those energy dollars from escaping your bank account.   #4: Blackout Liners Protect Your Curtains from Fading Do blackout curtains save energy? They do if they’re thermal blackout liners. And that’s not all. Liners behind your main curtains serve even more functions that improve your home. Have you ever noticed that patio cushions fade at different rates? That’s because if you don’t rotate them around your patio table, the pillows that stay in the sun the longest fade faster than those that get more shade. Well, the same thing can happen to your curtains. Lining them with blackout liners can block the sun’s rays. This will extend the life of your curtains and ensure that they’ll fade more slowly and at the same rate.    #5: Drapery and Blackout Liners Block Light One distinct advantage of energy-efficient curtains shows up in bedrooms. Energy-efficient curtains designed with thermal blackout linings not only reduce your utility bill but also block sunlight. You can make your child’s bedroom a cozy little den during the day, which helps induce sleep!   #6: Blackout Liners and Drapery Add Privacy You also experience additional privacy with energy-efficient thermal linings. Sure, any curtain can help maintain your privacy, but blackout liners further add to your privacy. You can use them as a standalone treatment or behind curtains for living room, kitchen—or anywhere.   Plus, Layering Can Provide Optimal Energy Efficiency   Just like layers of clothing, layering your window treatments can improve energy efficiency. One popular solution is to layer blinds, shutters, or shades underneath draperies. You can also layer roller shades under roman shades.   And layering provides a lot more control over your environment. For instance, dual shades allow the flexibility to take advantage of daylight hours to let in sunlight from one type of shade. Then, you can pull the other shade down for privacy and block streetlights at bedtime.   Outdoor Curtains Add Another Energy-Efficient Layer   Do you have an outdoor patio? Outdoor curtains can provide an insulating buffer between the outdoors and your home. This approach also enhances privacy and brings luxury to your outdoor patio space.   And what leads to that patio? You need curtains for sliding glass doors as well in order to create privacy and stop the energy drain from your wallet.   It’s time to make a change that both improves your energy efficiency and positively affects your cash flow. Explore your options with Window Works Studio for stunning window treatment décor that saves energy in your home.   Window Works Studio designs and installs custom curtains that beautify your home AND improve energy efficiency.                           Call us TODAY! Your Local Energy Efficiency Experts for Curtains — Greensboro, NC  

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7 Super Easy Tips to Make Your Windows Look Bigger

by Alan Kirby

03 05, 2021 | Posted in Education | 0 comments

 Nothing draws the eye in a room like large, beautifully dressed windows. But what if your windows are lacking- or, they simply don't live up to the proportions of the room? No need to worry! We have some super easy hacks on how to make your windows look bigger!   Try These Simple Tricks Making windows look bigger often comes down to creating a trick of the eye. With the right fabric, rods, or even furniture arrangements, you can create an impact without investing in a renovation. Try these seven tips for big results:  

  1. Re-Hang your curtain rod, cornice board, or lambrequin.  Instead of hanging it just over the window, move it up and out. Interior designers have varying opinions on just how far to go, but most agree that four to eight inches in either direction can create the right illusion without looking out of place. For a more dramatic look, feel free to push the limit.
  2. Invest in longer, wider curtains or sheers. With your hardware extended, you'll likely need bigger curtains to cover the added real estate-ensuring the window covering extends all the way to the floor without draping, and reaches the edges of the new width boundaries. Your new dimensions may create unconventional sizing requirements. So, choosing custom window treatments will allow you the advantage of having curtains made to your exact specifications.
  3. Consider a new for color your window coverings. Light colors, in general, can make both your windows and room look larger. To really create a visual perception of more space, consider  window coverings that match the color of the walls-as long as it's not a dark color. A dark shade will make the entire space look smaller.
  4. Choose patterns that emphasize direction. If you want to add a perception of height to your windows, go with a window covering that has a vertical pattern. If it's width you want to accentuate, go with a horizontal pattern.
  5. Don't skimp on fabric. Flimsy sheers and drapes can draw attention to the extra space you've created between the window and the curtain rod, cornice board or lambrequin. Go with a thick, sturdy fabric for a professional look that draws attention toward the curtains and away from the optical illusion you've created.
  6. Reorganize your room.  Don't crowd your windows with furniture-ensure there's plenty of room for the curtains to hang properly without furnishing against or directly in front of them. Framing the outer edges of your new window area with side tables or arm chairs can also visually extend the width of the windows. One of our favorite tricks is to hang a large mirror on the wall across from the window. This lets more light into the room, giving the illusion that the windows are bigger.
  7. Go fabulous. No one will notice the size of your windows if you have beautiful, high-quality window coverings they can't take their eyes off of! Window Works Studio can help with that. We create custom window coverings that complement your particular space and design aesthetic, while adding a Wow! factor.
  Want More Advice on How to Make Your Windows Look Bigger?  For over 11 years, we've worked with homeowners, interior designers, and design  consultants to create breathtaking window coverings in any space. We have the experience, instincts, and resources to achieve any effect you're looking for. And, once your new window coverings are ready, we can install them to your exact specifications.                                                            Want to make your small windows look bigger?                                                                      Let us help you transform your space!                                                      Call (336)854-6085 today for your free consultation.         

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Window Treatment Trends for 2021

by Alan Kirby

01 25, 2021 | Posted in Education | 0 comments

  Want to make your home a stylish sanctuary? Ready to leave behind the old and move forward with the new?   After the ups and downs of 2020, now’s the time for a fresh start! Window treatment trends for 2021 reflect that. They also demonstrate the ways in which we’ve changed our attitudes toward home life and how we’ve adapted to new ways of nesting. Find out what’s new — and what’s holding strong — in window treatment trends this year.   2021 Trending Colors Between remote work and the skipping of social events, Americans are spending more time than ever at home. As a result, many are creating environments that are both soothing and comforting. This means we’ll be seeing plenty of calming blues and greens in window treatments. Pantone’s choice of “Ultimate Gray” this year may mean shades of gray will also continue growing in popularity.   Bright & Airy Colors, Fabrics & Prints Speaking of Pantone… they released not one but two colors of the year for 2021. In addition to "Ultimate Gray" the other color  is “Illuminating,” a bright, vibrant yellow. You may want to choose window coverings in this shade—or a floral retro pattern—to develop a more optimistic attitude about the days ahead. And don’t forget Boho-inspired neutral color palates and botanical-themed patterns in fabrics, which continue to be hot sellers. Increased natural light is also an important part of this trend. So, look for minimalistic window coverings in semi-opaque fabrics. Sheers, in particular, are making a comeback as standalone curtains in some rooms.   There are also many Roman shades and honeycomb shade designed with natural light in mind. Hunter Douglas Designer Roller Duolite shades are another great option. With dual shades, you can pull one down during daytime hours to let sunlight through; then, pull the second one down at night for light blocking during bedtime hours. Outdoor Influences in Materials Too much time inside is giving many people a desire to be in the great outdoors. We saw this reflected in many of the fabric and texture trends of 2020. Now, it’s carrying over into the new year as well.

  • Woven blinds made of bamboo and other natural materials
  • Linen and muslin draperies
  • Textured fabrics
  • Wood blinds
  More environmentally friendly materials will be big. Likewise, farmhouse-inspired washed wood in blinds and shutters will remain popular.     Smart Blinds & Automation As homes become smarter and more technology driven, we expect remote-control and automated window treatments to continue growing in popularity. Ask us about PowerView Automation that will allow you to control window coverings either through an app or your smart-home system.     Embrace 2021 Window Treatment Trends If you’re as ready as we are for fresh changes, let us help you transform your home into a space that’s not only on-trend but that’s also perfect for moving forward into a brand-new vibe.       2021 window treatment trends can transform your living environment — and your attitude!   We have a wide selection of popular window covering options.   Give us a call today!      

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Cool Custom Window Treatments For Unique Windows

by Amy Meinecke

10 02, 2020 | Posted in Education | 0 comments

If you can dream it, you can do it. In the world of home design, this is more than just a mantra — it’s a ticket to a world of possibilities. In the world of window coverings, such creative thinking leads to some unique shapes, styles, and types of windows, which need to be draped with similar creative panache. The good news is that when you work with customization experts like those of us here at Window Works Studio, we’ve seen — and created — it all. From shutters to skylights — from arches to french doors — we can fabricate or find you window treatment solutions for anything your mind — and home builder — can throw at us. We’ve combed the archives to find some of the most creative custom coverings, and wanted to share some design ideas that could inspire some unique thinking for your unique window shapes and styles.

  • Bay Windows: These three-dimensional windows feature a projection that goes beyond your exterior wall - creating the possibility of a nook or alcove surrounded by glass on three sides. Coverings work best here — anything from one-inch blinds, cellular shades, and pleated shades will achieve the desired results.
  • Bowed Windows: Similar to bay windows, these create a pleasing curve that offers a wide view of the outside. Custom hardware provides the ability to hang the draperies from a curved rod making the drapes simple to open and close. Bay or bow window treatment
  • Casement Windows: Because these swing inside or outside — much like doors — and use a crank to open, there may not be much mounting space. Again, outside mounting products — particularly those with a high rise — will likely do the trick.Casement Window treatment
  • Triangles, Circles, and Curves: For those accent windows that reach the highest peaks, we recommend inoperable cellular shades, perhaps using a soft fabric to allow light to come in without being blasted with direct sunlight. For lower windows, you can even use plantation shutters to provide the appropriate amount of privacy. Curved window treatment, Heritage Shutters
  • Sidelights: We see a lot of these in the South — small panes of glass that allow light in astride doorways. To make your grand entrance even grander — and also to protect your entire home from being on display 24/7, consider mini-blinds, shutters, cellular shades, or even roman shades. French Doors with Sidelights, blinds, and draperies
At Window Works Studio, we can turn your decorating dreams into reality. For residents of Greensboro, High Point, Winston-Salem, and the entire Piedmont Triad call upon Window Works Studio to create and design your home dreamscapes Window Works Studio also is an authorized Hunter Douglas dealer. Visit our Hunter Douglas site to begin your search for the best blinds or contact our team today to get started.

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Designing Custom Window Treatments for Multiple Rooms

by AmyB

04 06, 2020 | Posted in Education | 0 comments

Have you struggled to come up with the right window treatments for each room in your home? You want to have a consistent look throughout the home, yet be able to address the individual needs for each space and the individual styles of those living in the home. In this Summerfield, NC home, we took on the task of designing multiple window treatments throughout. We considered the privacy needs and individual style of each space, as we assured a consistent flow through the home.  

Drapery for Child's Room

In this customers son's room, our client wanted window treatments that would grow with him. Choosing something neutral, and character free helps to accomplish this. These drapes were made in a fun neutral horizontal stripe, that can easily be transitioned into teenage decor. These custom curtains were made with a blackout lining, and designed to close across the windows, providing a room darkening option for quality sleep. During the day, the drapery can be opened to let in lots of light for play. Son's Custom Drapery  

Drapery for Guest Room

In this guest room, we selected Helser Brothers custom iron hardware in a French pole style. This style hardware is sleek and stylish in its simplicity. The drapery are fabricated with a soft linen fabric complimented with a simple, taupe colored tape trim along the leading edges. This style of trim adds interest and pulls color from the room to the neutral drapery.

Window Treatments for Teenagers

In the customer's teenage daughters room, we designed custom, black out lined roman shades. The crisp white linen fabric is spiced up with a colorful woven trim along the bottom to coordinate with her fun, vibrant bedding. The trim is hand-sewn, so it can be removed and changed to a different color and style in the future, if desired.    

Master Suite Window Treatments

Elegant and functional drapery were called for in this master bedroom. The room had light colored bedding and lovely blue wall. Our job was to select fabric to compliment the existing colors and style, while providing room darkening for sleep. We chose the same white linen we used in the other bedrooms and featured a tape trim banding that incorporated the pretty blues from the room. The drapery was made to close across the window and because we used a blackout lining, provide room darkening when needed. Once again we used custom iron hardware by Helser Brothers to make a statement and provide consistency through the house. For the master bath, we used Hunter Douglas Vignette Modern Roman Shades. Their semi-opaque liner keeps the room light while still providing privacy. The fabric was chosen to compliment the room without distracting from the stunning copper tub! Master Bedroom Master Bath It is possible to highlight personal style, while addressing functionality and the aesthetic of the home. Choosing to have custom window treatments gives you so many wonderful options.                      

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