ModalSimilar to viscose, a manufuctured fibre from natural cellulose. OverhangDescribes the amount by which a pole or track extends beyond the sides of the window opening. The greater the overhang, the more the curtains will clear the window when open, but if you make the pole too wide, you may need extra curtain widths to cover the opening. Pattern MatchThe way in which the fabric pattern matches to the next piece of fabric. Usually a "straight match" - that is, horizontally aligned across the fabric, but sometimes a "half-drop" where the join is half way up the pattern, or "staggered", where the join is at some other interval. The type of match will affect your quantity calculation. Pattern Repeat (Horizontal)The measurement between any point in a fabric's pattern and the point at which that same point in the pattern is repeated across the width of the fabric. Pattern Repeat (Vertical)The measurement between any point in a fabric's pattern and the point at which that same point in the pattern is repeated along the length of the fabric.

When furnishers refer to pattern repeat, they usually mean vertical pattern repeat. PelmetDeep cover boxed over the top of curtains which disguises the track and curtain head. Made by covering plywood, buckram or thick board with fabric. A soft gathered version of this is sometimes called a valance. Pelmet BoardBoard attached to the wall for mounting curtain track under and pelmet on front. Pencil Pleat HeadingGathered looking small pleats to the curtain heading. Made using the most common heading tape, usually about 7.5cm (3") deep is sewn on the back of the curtain at the top, and gathered into pleats using gathering strings set within the tape. There are usually 3 hook pockets to allow the curtain hooks to be set at different heights. Penny weightsTraditional weights for sewing into the curtain hem. We put these in the corners and at each seam. Pinch Pleat HeadingThe curtain heading is stiffened with buckram then pleated into fixed pleats to a predetermined width.

Usually triple pleats, but sometimes double pleats for less full curtains. PipingFabric sewn around a length of cord then sewn into a seam to create a decorative edging. PolyesterA man made yarn. Polyester content in fabric often causes the fabric to drape less well. PuddlingCascading of curtains onto the floor rather than hanging just to the floor. Also known as "Crashing". RailroadingUsing fabric on its side, i.e. using the width as the length. bamboo beaded door curtain jesus christSome fabrics such as wide voiles and a few upholstery cloths are designed specifically to be used sideways.levolor curtain rod extender ReturnThe part of a curtain or pelmet that "returns" back to the wall on each end. the tortilla curtain critical analysis

Returning curtains to the wall helps exclude light and gives a tidy finish. Return EdgeThe back edge of the curtain that remains fixed when the curtain is drawn across the window. RevealThe opening into which a window frame is fitted. Roller BlindFabric on a roller fixed at the top of a window and pulled down to cover the window. Roller blinds can be operated by a spring mechanism or by a chain and ratchet system.ikea mariam orange curtains Roman BlindPanel of fabric with strung horizontal rods attached to the lining on the back of the panel, such that when the strings are pulled up, the panel is raised to hang in tidy concertina folds.kaili curtains SeamSewn joint between two pieces of fabric.whiteheads judy blue curtains

SelvedgeThe narrow strip down each edge of a fabric, sometimes has printed info such as design name. The Selvedge can form part of a seam allowance but is not useable as a visible part of the fabric. SheerLightweight fabric with some degree of translucence, sometimes used for privacy as well as decorative purposes. SidewinderChain mechanism that attaches to a blind headrail for raising or lowering a blind.blinds and curtains harpenden SillThe board or plaster "shelf" at the bottom of the window. Slotted headingChannel sewn into the top of a curtain which threads over the curtain pole. SoffitUnderside of the top of the reveal (opening) into which the window frame fits. SplayedAs in splayed reveal. Where the sides of a window reveal are angled, admitting more light and improving the outlook from a window. Split BattenBatten that is sawn through at an angle to form a simple and effective two-part fixing for hanging things on walls.

StackbackThe width of curtaining when the curtain is in the open position. The wider the window, the greater the amount of fabric required to cover it and so the greater the stackback. When planning track or pole size, allow a greater width to preserve light if you will have a large stackback. StrutsLegs, supports - as for headboards. SwatchSmall fabric sample or cutting for checking colour, texture or design. Swags and TailsHighly ornate fabric treatment over a pair of curtains to give the illusion of a length of carefully draped fabric. A decorative alternative to a pelmet. Tab Top HeadingFabric "straps" are added to the top of the curtain and these are threaded onto the curtain pole. TiebacksRope ties, commonly with tassel decoration, wrapped around the curtain to hold it back to the side. Originally traditional loops of stiffened lined fabric. Tieback hooksHooks attached to the wall to take tiebacks, for holding curtains back.For example a curtain track can be face-fixed (to the wall or window frame) ot top-fixed to the ceiling or soffit.