What is the difference between Custom and Ready-Made Drapery?
There are many factors that separate Custom Drapery from Ready-Made. Here are a few things to consider when making comparisons:
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Lining and Interlining - Generally, Ready-Made Drapery is not lined, or if it is, the lining is of very poor quality. Custom Drapery is always lined (unless a specific design requires otherwise) with top-quality white or ivory satin lining. Quality lining gives drapery treatments greater body, and also extends the life of your drapery fabric. Interlining, or Bump, is best used with silks and more delicate fabrics, as it gives fine fabrics more fullness, and also acts as insulation in cooler climates. You will never find interlining in Ready-Made Drapery.
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Panel Widths - Ready-Made Drapery comes in single-width panels. If you wish to cover a larger window, you will need multiple panels and they will not be attached to each other. If the panels have a pattern, the pattern will most likely not appear in the same location on each panel. Custom Draperies are made to order, so no matter what width you need, your panels will be sewn together, and patterns will seldom be interrupted or broken. Custom sheers can be without seams for up to a width of 134 inches.
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Fabric Selection and Quality - There is no doubt that the quality of fabric used in Custom Drapery far surpasses that of Ready-Made Drapery, and your selection is only limited by your imagination. Add to that, the many choices you have with regards to styling, fabric combinations, dimensions, and trim, and it's easy to understand why Custom Drapery is far superior to Ready-Made.
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Workmanship - This is the 'apples and oranges' of Custom vs. Ready-Made Drapery. Besides the differences mentioned above, Custom Draperies will meet the following criteria:
4" Double-turned heading with crinoline for shape and stability
4" Double-turned bottom hem, blind stitched for added body
1 1/2" Double-turned side hems, blind stitched for smooth edges
Weighted hems when needed
But most importantly, when you purchase Custom Draperies, you also receive the services, knowledge, and expertise of a Window Professional.
How much can I expect to spend on Custom Window Coverings?
Custom Window Coverings are exactly that - CUSTOM! The price depends on the size of the window, the cost of the fabric selected, the style of the treatment, whether or not trimmings are used, and if the complete treatment has one layer or several layers. With that said, let's look at a rough guide that we call 'Good, Better, Best'. All ranges are based on a standard 3' X 3' window.
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Good - This is a single layer treatment, such as a blind, shade, or valance. It can solve a basic functional need such as light and privacy control, or can add a decorative touch to a window that already has that function covered.
$200 - $600 per window -
Better - This option is more decorative. It can control light and privacy, but may also contain some fabric. There will be a greater variety of products, styles, colors to choose from, such as a woven wood shade with a valance or side panels. This more personal touch will reflect your personality.
$600 - $1200 per window -
Best - This is a complete window design. It will address privacy and light control, plus give you tremendous variety of product, styles, and colors, as well as unlimitied designer choices. Unique and distinctive designs combined with embellishments and design details will be a strong reflection of your personal style. An example of a treatment like this could include a blind or shade, a decorative fabric valance, side panels (either stationary or traversing), and maybe even sheers.
$1200 - $3000 per window
What is a reasonable amount of time needed to complete and install my new window treatments?
Generally, custom window treatments take 4 - 6 weeks to complete, from the time we receive all fabric and trim. Blinds and shades can be ready to hang in about 2 - 4 weeks.
I have never worked with a decorator before. What will my first appointment be like?
Your first appointment with a prospective decorator should be like making a new friend. It is important that you like the person you hire, and that you feel the professional is really listening to your needs, and not merely plugging their standard design into your project. You need to be honest about your budget and time frame, and it is best if all decision makers are present at the first meeting. You should never have to pay for your initial consultation. This is a meet-and-greet opportunity, and there should be no fee associated with that first meeting.
It is helpful for the designer to see the entire house, even if you are only doing one room or window treatment. Continuity is key, and it will be helpful for the professional to see where you're headed, what you like about your home, and what you don't like. It is also very helpful for them to understand how you live - your activities, how you use each room, who inhabits the home, and find out what's on your wish list. Let the designer know what's important to you. It should be fun, educational, and ultimately, when the project is completed, you will have made a new friend.