Friday, May 24, 2013

Curtain Valances in the Decorating World

There are terms that are used in the decorating world that leave one wondering if the designer has a firm handle on things. How many regular people have ever heard of a hanging swag, or would know instantly what a finial is used for. Yet these are real words used to describe different items that are regularly hung as decorative accessories on everyday window treatments. One that is often misunderstood is the window valance.

Yet it is a staple in window coverings that decorators use to enhance the look of a variety of different types and styles of room decors.
Swags are considered very similar to valance curtains but are hung in a way to offer window treatments differing effects. Valances for windows are hung straight across the top of the curtain rail while the swag is a much longer piece of material and is hung in such a way that it drapes down on the sides as well. You might pair them with panels of different lengths to achieve several intriguing looks. Another phrase that may leave you feeling that you're left out in the cold is the scarf.
This does not mean the one grandma sent you for those winter sledding trips, rather it is a piece of fabric that is draped artistically over the window. It is more free-flowing than the typical valance and is often hung in a more casual variety of forms and materials. Each of these methods of window enhancement has their place in the ever more advancing world of interior design. It really is up to the decorator to decide which one makes the cut and which is inappropriate to the situation. The nice aspect of valance window treatments over swag is that it fits neatly into more room themes. Contemporary, retro, and Victorian can all be enhanced with these style choices.

The weight of the curtain fabric, colors, and prints will make a huge change to a room. Matching the throw pillows to the window treatment is a standard technique that ties it all in together. This can also be done by covering the tables with corresponding colors. It is as varied as it seems. And it all began with what you put on your windows.

Learning what is what, as you start to decorate your home, will get easier with exposure to the terms that are out there. Magazines, decorating shows, and on-line video clips will make this learning curve faster. Remembering them all will come quicker if you write them down. Keep in mind, the one found to go well with most curtain designs still seems to be the valance and you can mix and match for your perfect room.

Ellen Hunter enjoys writing and sharing informative articles on all aspects of decorating and furnishing a home. For more great information on using valance curtains and finding the best curtain fabric for your home visit CurtainsGalore.net.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ellen_Hunter
 
 

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