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Alternatives to Vertical Blinds

2008-06-25T21:19:00.001-07:00

Wondering what to do with that large window or sliding glass patio door? Vertical blinds are the often the perfunctory choice for many would-be interior decorators, like myself; but there are other options.

I was in this situation myself recently. My wife and I moved into a new rental home that came sans window treatments of any kind. We have a very large sliding glass door with lovely views of Mission Bay in San Diego. By midday the sunlight pouring into our living room is almost blinding. I would like to preserve this view but limit the sunlight and heat build-up at these times.

With my limited interior decorating skills and experience my first response to this issue was to purchase vertical blinds. They work well, they look pretty good and they are generally affordable. My wife wanted something different which forced us to do a little research on possible options. Hereâ€™s what I found:

The first option I discovered was panel track blinds. Panel blinds, or sliding panels, come in a variety of materials including sheer, solar screen-like materials. This option limits heat build-up but still allows decent view-through. Panel tracks are kind of like vertical blinds except the panels are much wider and they roll or slide on an aluminum track. They offer a contemporary look, which is definitely a break from vertical blinds. But they are a little expensive, especially for a rental.

Option number two is vertical sheer shades. I donâ€™t think many people know what sheer shades are, specifically vertical sheer shades. These shades are a hybrid â€" a cross between solar shades and vertical blinds. The panels are sandwiched between two sheer fabric panels. They almost look like sheer drapes except that you can close the vertical panes inside the material for more privacy. This type of shades also comes with horizontal panels, which I believe are the more common usage. I really liked this option but again they are more expensive than plain-old vertical blinds. It was at this point that I realized that I was going to have to spend a little more. I figured that if we were going to stay in this rental for a few years, it would be worth it.

In my research, I also found that vertical blinds come in different materials besides vinyl. In fact, you can purchase verticals in fabric, faux wood, cellular, solar screen, and aluminum. The options that best fit my needs for this particular window were the solar screen and cellular option. The more affordable option was the solar vertical, though I did like the energy efficiency addition that the cellular verticals would offer.

At the end of my research, my wife and I narrowed down our options to the vertical sheer shades and the sheer (solar material) vertical blinds. I liked the look of both. The vertical sheer shades were the more expensive option but they offered the flexibility of greater room-darkening because you can close the vertical slats. The sheer vertical blinds were the most cost efficient choice but didnâ€™t offer the option of room-darkening. In the end, we decided to go with the more expensive sheer vertical shades, as it was only for the one window. And the verdict is â€" we made a great choice. Once installed our new blinds look great and function very well. If you were looking for a true room darkening option, these blinds are not the right choice but for windows with a view and minimal room darkening needs, they are a great alternative to vertical blinds.

If you are in the market for window shades and need an alternative to vertical blinds, consider sheer blinds, or sliding panels. - David Brooks

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How To Fit Curtains On Odd Shaped Windows

2008-06-25T21:18:00.001-07:00

Check this out to get some practical window treatment ideas for your own home. Guides to the do's and dont's. They should give you some food for thought before you leap in and get started. (the other option.................brick your window up and have done with it. What do you think?)

Answers to a Tall and Narrow window?

My window treatment ideas for this kind of window. Set the curtains wider than you would normally. This gives the illusion of a wider window. Make the rod or track around 30cm wider each side of your window. Rather than the usual 20cm. Then when you open your curtains don't push them back as far as you would normally.

Wide window causing a problem?

Window treatment ideas for this kind of window are to not set the curtains to wide off the window. Probably only 15cm at most. Even though you have a lot of fabric to stack back when they open. You can use tie backs to hold them off the window. Another option is to use a thinner fabric.

Another thing that works well to give the window height is a valance or pelmet. Only rather than the usual 20cm depth make it 30 -35cm deep and fix it higher on the wall. So with the curtains not set to wide and a deeper top treatment this gives the illusion of a squarer window.

The dreaded arched windows!

Best window treatment ideas for arched windows. Most folks find this style of window a real pain.

It can be as simple or as complicated as you want to make it.

The easiest thing to do is so simply fit a curtain rod straight across over the window and hang a pair of curtains. Just simply treat it like any other window.

If you want to work with the shape (talk about making life hard for yourself) and have curved top curtains that drapes back into tie backs, then this what you must do. On the width measure every 15cm across the window put markers on the window sill. Then note the full window width.

Next measure and make a note of both outside straight edges up to where the arch starts. Finally at each of the markers on your window sill measure straight up from the sill to where the tape measure touches the curve. make a note for a these vertical measurements. It's a good idea to make a quick sketch of the window and jot your sizes next to the places where you measured.

If someone is making the curtains for you just give them the sizes as measured. If your having a go at making yourself then (take a tranquilizer) you need to multiply all your width sizes by 2.5 to allow for gather.

What to do with a door curtain!

Window treatment ideas for doors. Normally you would have a single curtain drawing back to the hinge side of your door. It makes a lot of sense to have the curtain tied back. (otherwise your door curtain will end up flapping like supermans cape every time someone opens the door on a windy day)

Sometimes there is not enough room on the hinge side of the door for the curtain to stack back off the door properly. You can have the curtain draw back the opposite way as long as you have room to draw the curtain completely clear of the door.

If you only have a small space on the hinge side of your door and no room the other side. Then the best option is to have an eyelet curtain on a rod with 1.5 X width of the door. This will stack back into a very small space.

Kitchen window Ideas

Window treatment ideas for kitchens. Your over sink curtains should be a few cm's short of the work surface even if this means just reaching the window sill. Also generally tied back to avoid splashes. (your kitchen floor will still end up flooded when the kids wash up after dinner, but at least your curtains should stay dry)

Another suggestion is don't use curtains and if you need privacy then fit a roller blind with moisture resistant fabric.

Another thing to consider if you really do want curtains is having unlined curtains made of a good polycotton fabric. This will enable you to launder your curtains whenever they get cooking smells on them.

Great Ideas for you bathroom

Window treatment Ideas for your bathroom. If you have a window over a bath or shower. Then don't bother with curtains full stop. It will be a complete waste of time and effort.

Really the only practical thing to do is fit a roller blind with a moisture resistant fabric.

If your window is away from the bath or shower then go for it and have some curtains. Even still keep them short and have them unlined. also pick a fabric that will launder well and dry well if they become damp with steam in the bathroom. Polycotton fabric are very good for this.

One last idea is to have a polyester sheer curtain on a rod drawn right across your window and scooped back into a hold back arm that matches your curtain rod. Dressed properly this can look very soft and feminine. Whilst giving you some privacy.

Patio doors and French doors!

Window treatment ideas for patio and French doors. these are great windows to have allowing lots of light into your room.

One of the drawbacks can be lack of privacy on occasion, or the sun maybe a problem.

An easy way to solve this is to fit a sheer curtain on its own rail fixed in the window recess behind your proper curtains. You can then open and close them to suit.

Panel track blinds a really great idea for large windows like this. They are very modern and contemporary. They can be opened and closed by moving the panels by hand or by pulling a cord. Just like a standard corded curtain rail.

The proper panel tracking system is a fairly pricey piece of kit. There are other ways of getting a similar look. I am sorting out some info on this and will put a new article out very soon

I hope this helps you with your "odd" shaped window.

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French Door Curtains Now Offers Trendy Look

2008-06-25T21:17:00.000-07:00

Door curtains serve dual purpose of adding elegance and controlling light into your home. Door curtains are now coming with the more modern designs and in the some of designer door curtains come with the window panels are placed inside the doors itself giving your home a wonderful look. With the passing of time, French door curtains are coming with the more new styles and different designs to suit the installation of window panels on the doors. French door curtains are now emerged as a demanding market where the team of designers and manufactures are working hard to create new styles, patterns and designs to produce unique edge styles in the curtains.

Before purchasing a curtain, the measurement for a curtain should be taken properly. Various designs included in a French door curtain are: solid color fabric panel doors, white sheer fabric door panels, soft stripe leno panel doors and unique sheer fabric door panels. The easiest way to search for the curtains is to search vial online where you can search out for various patterns, styles, designs and a range in the price and one can choose one according to taste and style. If an individual is planning a party, one can go for the themed curtains, which would perfectly match with the décor and give your interior arrangements a cool look. The curtains are used for various purposes and are designed accordingly to meet the needs of residents. One of them is custom shower curtain, which is an ideal curtain for your bathroom. It provides a good décor and beauty to the bathroom and gives it a feel of individual personalization. It is available in all kind of fabrics of your choice.

The price of the curtains varies with the variation in size and fabrics used in it. Some largely used curtains are designed with waterproof liners. Some people prefer to have curtains, which match with towels and bathmats. The curtains are also designed in patterns of pet animals, with photographs of beloved persons and other attractive images on it to give a different décor to your bathroom. Famous wordings, drawings of kids and attractive sayings can be included in custom curtains apart from luxury shower curtains.

The other essential curtain needed in your home is kitchen curtains. It is important to ensure that the curtains should be in coordination with the countertops and shelves and therefore not to lose a sight of the overall perception of the kitchen. The things you should keep in mind while choosing the perfect curtains for your kitchen are its textures, colors, and shape or size of the curtains wisely. They together give your kitchen an awesome look.

French window curtains include window coverings that are treated with rich color and are gorgeous. A window with classy coverings adds a final look to the room and gives a pleasing finish to the eye. The design of French door curtains reflects the hues and colors of the French countryside, and it is now have come and available to your home, so why wait?

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3 Ways to Save Big With Solar Energy

2008-06-04T06:57:00.000-07:00

Solar energy isn't just for electrical gurus or families able to make a large initial investment, it's for everyone. As the price of solar panels comes down and solar technology more efficient, solar energy is quickly becoming a way for the average family to save big on their monthly energy bills. Keep reading for 3 ways you can save a lot of money in your home with solar energy.

1. Go solar in the garden.

You pay nothing for electricity that comes from the sun, so why not use it in your home's sunniest spot - the garden? Several manufacturers offer solar-powered exterior lights that can illuminate porches, pathways, stairwells and gardens. Some are even bright enough to provide security lighting.

These extremely efficient solar lights use electricity generated by sunlight falling on photovoltaic (solar) cells, which is then stored in a rechargeable battery for use at night. Separate units that have a self-contained solar panel usually need to be placed in a sunny spot during the day, but lights with independent solar panels can go anywhere while you attach the panel to the roof or another sunny location.

2. Harness the sun to heat your water.

If you live in a sunny climate or can back up your solar system with a small, on-demand heater, this could be an ideal setup to save a lot of money. You'll save big on energy costs by installing a simple solar water heater to supplement your conventional water heater. Overall, a solar hot-water system is about 50-85 percent less expensive to operate than electric water heaters. The savings over gas heaters are less substantial, but there are still opportunities to reduce your energy consumption.

Before investing in any solar hot water system, have a heating consultant evaluate the potential savings and determine the system type and capacity best suited to your family's needs.

3. Harness solar power through your windows.

Opening your home up to light can dramatically reduce your heating and lighting costs. When renovating a home, always consult a lighting expert on the best window placement for the longest amount of daylight allowance.

If you're unable to invest in new windows, try simply opening the shades on a cold winter day or brightening a dark room with light paint and sheer curtains that allow the light to come in. For little to no expense, you can save a few dollars every month on your lighting bills.

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What Is Bespoke - And What Does It Have To Do With Curtains

2008-06-04T06:56:00.000-07:00

Bestow A Groom Stare To Your Room:

Bespoke is an English idiom that is used a lot. Curtains are also used for light control to prevent glare, for sleeping during the day, or watching TV etc. Opaque curtains are suited for light control. For partial light control sheer or net type curtains are better suited. Curtains are also used for increasing the aesthetic appeal of a room. A pleasing to the eye curtain to the highest degree increases the aesthetics of a room and gives an affluent look. On the divergent dirty or under the weather matched curtains give a room a depressing glance. When the window looks onto a street it is better to give thought to the underside of the curtain as the curtain can be seen from outside and will read aloud the appearance of the accommodation.

Likely the brand of curtain that youâ€™ll most often perceive is a section curtain. This is the variety of curtain that is hemmed at the top and bottom, and is hung by hooks or rings and simply hangs in a natural fold, which gives the window very petite of a formal look. This type of curtain is popular for dining rooms and/or bedrooms, and often harmonizing up with blinds or shades.

A different type of curtain that is hung actually at the center of the window is called a CafÃ© Curtain The tiered curtain has manifold panels which have usually a couple of panels covering the top of the two base panels. So, the bottom half of the windows are covered by the base panel, with the top half being covered by the outer panels, as well as overlapping the base panels. For more formal areas in the home such as dining and living rooms, lined drapes and custom window treatments provide an elaborate look. A lining allows the curtain to drape nicely it also has insulating properties and is better able to filter out light for room darkening. If tie backs are used make sure to add extra inches to the measurements depending on how much framework gathers above the twine.

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Choosing The Best Window Blinds For Your Needs

2008-06-04T06:55:00.000-07:00

Window blinds come in such a vast array of styles, colors, materials, fabrics, and sizes; it is almost too much to think about! They come ready to hang in the store, custom made to order, and ready to hang with your own alterations. They also come in a variety of slat sizes from mini to 2 inches wide.

The most popular style these days, due to the variety of colors available, price, and ease of use, is the mini blind. Typically they are made of a plastic material, but can be found in metal as well. Yes, they are easy to hang and use and cleaning is a breeze, but from a decoratorsâ€™ point of view, there are much better window blind choices that cost only a little more.

You have to consider your room - size, dÃ©cor, and architectural style - in order to choose the best window blinds for your room or house. For instance, if you want a room where you could just relax and re-energize, you would probably want to look at wooden blinds with a larger slat. These window blinds will add a special touch to the room, one of warmth and rich natural beauty. Cleaning of real wood will limit your choices, as dusting is the only recommended method.

If you really canâ€™t afford real wood blinds, consider faux wood window blinds. They have the look and feel of real wood, but are less expensive and will allow you to create a popular, clean, contemporary look. These blinds will never warp making them durable and perfect for high humidity areas. These can be cleaned with a damp cloth or simply dusted.

If you like that Zen-like feel to your room? Then panel track blinds are for you! They are modern and contemporary and will relax you with their clean simple lines. They allow you to create that Zen-like feel in your special place; that feeling of peace and harmony you crave after a busy stressful day. They are available in warm inviting colors to set the mood in your room, while still coordinating with your room colors and dÃ©cor. These sheer window blinds come in a variety of â€˜opennessâ€™ to give you just the desired amount of sun and light while still providing you with privacy and a beautiful view. Periodic cleaning with a feather duster or vacuum with brush is recommended and they are easily removed for dry cleaning.

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Alternatives to Vertical Blinds

2008-06-03T06:18:00.002-07:00

French Door Curtains Now Offers Trendy Look

2008-06-03T06:18:00.001-07:00

How To Fit Curtains On Odd Shaped Windows

2008-06-03T06:17:00.000-07:00

Adding Windows To Your Garage Door

2008-06-02T11:18:00.001-07:00

We all love to improve our homes. We spend untold hours [and dollars] on the weekend doing this and that to improve our homes. Adding windows to garage doors is the latest fad.

Garage door windows are generally small and serve the purpose of lighting much more than of allowing vision to the outside. The reason for this is that when you can see out the window, it means that intruders can see inside as well. The garage is a very likely source of a home invasion and you do not want to make it easy to see what is stored inside. On the other hand, lighting inside the garage is important. Windows also tend to add to the decorative appeal of the garage door.

Windows are usually mounted high on the doors, but also must be fitted to the panels in multi-panel sectional garage doors. Since these panels fold up and ride into the garage ceiling when the door is opened and unfold and straighten when closed, the ability of the windows to survive this process must be taken into consideration. This is another reason that garage windows tend to be smaller.

Many consumers are interested in finding window styles that harmonize with the overall window designs of the main house. Since the garage door is an alternative entrance to the home, it is also important that the windows of the garage door harmonize with the window arrangement of the main entrance doorways. This creates a balanced look to homes where the garage is attached to the home and is most important when the garage doors and the entrance door is in a line across the front of the home.

If a window is going to be added to an already existing garage door, it is best to have it installed by a professional. Unless you are a very advanced DIY type of person with experience in setting windows, a professional is needed to insure the window is properly set and can withstand the opening and closing of the door. Although the window may need to be actually installed by another, you should retain the final say on the size and style of the window. There is such a wide variety of options available that you should be able to get your garage door window exactly how you wish it to be.

Since much attention is given to insulation in garages through insulating panels on the garage door and threshold seals where the door meets the floor, it would be foolish to offset the conservation gain with large windows that allow energy loss. This should be an important consideration is the window selection process. You should insure that your choice is not offsetting the gain from other forms of insulation.

Looking for garage door repair companies in your area? Visit http://www.GarageDoorRepairCompanies.com for an unbiased set of listings.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Aazdak_Alisimo

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Custom Window Shutters

2008-06-02T11:17:00.001-07:00

When buying custom window shutters, it is important to know the difference between a customized and custom-made window shutters.

A customized window shutter is a pre-made stock that was cut to fit a certain size. On the other hand, a custom-made shutter is defined as making something new from raw material available.

Customized interior shutters are cut down and hinged from a pre-made stock that is usually poorly fitted. Also, the panels are not proportionate in size to the size of the window. When a lot of the window shutters are cut off, it may compromise integrity.

A common technique for installation used in custom window shutters is the mounting of the shutters by hanging strips to the inside of the window opening. The size of the hang strip is adjusted to the window opening. However, the hang strips decrease the operating space of the louver and are not needed in proper shutter unit.

Synthetic shutters normally have pre-cut stiles, louvers, and rails for quick production, resulting in an imperfect fit and disproportionate panels and components as compared to the window.

Window shutters that are really custom-made are already constructed from the start for certain window openings. Some companies sell high-quality window shutters made to the one sixteenth of an inch of each individual opening. The stiles and rails are also uniform throughout. The rail sizes are adjusted to the window opening's height and the spacing of the louver.

Custom interior wood window shutter units may be assembled and ready to install by certain manufacturers. You may choose between plantation and traditional shutters.

Before you buy custom window shutters, choose a company that fabricates custom-made and not customized window shutters. It is important to remember that windows are different and their dimensions are unique.

So choose a custom window shutter that adds unique style to your room but won?t make a huge dent in your budget.

Window Shutters provides detailed information on Arch Window Shutters, Custom Window Shutters, Exterior Window Shutters, Hurricane Window Shutters and more. Window Shutters is affiliated with Window Roller Shades.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Steve_Valentino

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Window Treatments - The Finishing Touch To Your Home Remodel

2008-06-02T11:14:00.000-07:00

Sounds obvious enough, right? And, in a way it is. I have seen many beautiful examples and many not-so-beautiful examples. The trick is to match up the decorating themes of a given room with the appropriate window treatment. The other choices are color, insulating properties, light control and privacy. By the way, I take window treatments to mean almost any window covering: blinds, shades, shutters and drapes. There doesn't seem to be much consensus on what a window treatment is so I am taking the broadest definition.

Choosing the right blinds and shades can get a little more complicated than these few choices. For example there are motorized blinds, cordless, valance options, wand control and more. But for the purposes of this article I will stick mostly to the major themes as mentioned above. Once you have chosen the appropriate blind, shade, shutter or drape, you can decide if you want to add any of the convenience options offered by the manufacturer.

First, let's lay out the main choices. In the window blinds category you have mini blinds, plantation shutters, vertical blinds, wood and faux wood blinds and finally, panel track blinds. In the window shades category you have roller shades, sheer shades, pleated shades, woven wood shades (also known as bamboo shades), roman shades, cellular shades and solar shades (also called solar screens). Then there are drapes.

The drapes category can be huge depending on how you choose to categorize them. But for the purposes of this article I will label them as custom and pre-made. Custom drapes are made-to-order drapes cut to the appropriate size of your window and usually with a built in 2 to 1 fullness. These are generally higher quality and made from a variety fabrics from silk to cotton. Made-to-order drapes are generally less expensive and can be picked up at many major retailers.

Segregating by room type, here are my recommendations. For kitchens, faux wood shutters and faux wood blinds are often an excellent choice. They often match up well with wood cabinets and can withstand the often hot and humid environments of kitchens. This is also true for bathrooms. But, other choices for bathrooms would be pleated shades, which you can think of as the non-insulating version of cellular shades. The nice thing about pleated shades for bathrooms is they pair well with the top down/bottom up feature which is excellent for privacy. Less expensive options for these kinds of rooms would be mini blinds, woven woods or roman shades. Mini blinds are a better choice for rooms with a more modern decor whereas wood finishes are best with wood-type decors. A simple rule of thumb is to match your window treatments with the overriding color and materials of the room: wood with wood, fabric with fabric, metal with metal and all in complimentary colors.

For living rooms and family rooms, the choices are pretty wide open. For large windows, like sliding doors, vertical blinds are an easy choice but don't overlook panel track blinds. Don't forget that vertical blinds come in more than just vinyl; they also come in faux wood, fabric, cellular and aluminum. Plantation shutters, though expensive, are a time-honored window covering choice. You almost can't go wrong with these, unless your house is very modern and contemporary. In that case, I would recommend aluminum mini blinds or vertical blinds.

For bedrooms, privacy and light control are usually the big factor. So, I would look into roller shades, cellular or pleated shades with a blackout liner, or woven woods and roman shades, again with a liner. The one you choose will depend on the overall décor of your room. If you want more insulating properties from you shades, go with the cellular option.

For dining rooms, I would recommend drapes or maybe roman or woven wood shades. If you like the roman shades, consider the pleated or tear-drop option for a more luxurious appearance.

For rooms with views and lots of sunlight, consider solar shades. These come in various levels of opacity, i.e. how much light they block. The nice thing about solar screens is you can still see out of your windows with out as much solar heat build-up as well as a greater level of privacy from the street view.

There you have it, the non-definitive guide to window treatments As a side note, consider checking out one of the how to measure for window blinds videos available on the internet, they can help. - David Brooks

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dave_Sean_Brooks

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Sheer Cover Makeup To Protect Your Looks

2008-05-24T08:01:00.002-07:00

Over the time, one of the best and amazing developments in the make-up technology is the Sheer cover makeup. Since it is easy to use and looks natural, it is becoming popular. More and more companies are shifting their product lines to incorporate more sheer makeup products.

Many women don't like to wear make up because of how heavy, wet, and unnatural it looks. It takes a lot of time to apply coats of foundation each morning, followed by pressed powder to set everything. The touch ups required throughout the day are endless. The phrase "putting your face on" gives a good idea how much effort it was to make yourself look presentable. Forget all of that when you're using powder foundation.

Sheer cover makeup that is of good quality and value is hard to find. Expensive make up counters at department stores make a fortune selling bottles upon bottles of their product to women. Sheer make up is quite the opposite of this! A bottle of mineral makeup can cost as little as $10. To find the cheapest sheer cover makeup, check out discount stores, drug stores, and even supermarkets.

One of the greatest thing about this new type of make up is that sheer naked mineral makeup is not nearly as irritating to some women as traditional types of make up are. They are usually made without perfumes, alcohol, additives, or preservatives found in liquid foundation make up. As a result, women with allergies and other sensitives rarely have a problem with powder foundations!

Sheer makeup also includes the added sun protection. Sheer makeup is also a great alternative to sunscreens, because they have high SPF factors between 15 and 30 and they will not clog your pores like the oily sunscreens. In fact, there may not be a need at all to use sunscreen if you are using sheer makeup.

Heavy makeup can feel like a mask over a woman's face. Sheer cover makeup doesn't have this problem. Many women say they can't remember that they're wearing it at all. The reason sheer makeup is lighter is that it doesn't settle into pores and wrinkles the way heavier makeup does, resulting in a superior experience you've got to try to believe.

Sheer cover makeup is one of the best advancements recently made by the makeup industry. It's easy and fast to apply, doesn't cost a lot, and looks excellent. For example, a powder foundation allows one to forget the normally time-consuming process of "putting on one's face," and a bottle of naked mineral cosmetics may cost as little as . Mineral makeup also won't affect those with allergies in the way that traditional cosmetics might, and it protects one from the sun without feeling like a heavy mask over one's face. All in all, this makeup is definitely an improvement from traditional cosmetics.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Samantha_Steiner

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A Summary Of The Types Of Window Blinds Available

2008-05-24T08:01:00.001-07:00

Panel Blinds

The panel blind is the new and innovative shading solution for larger windows and patio doors and look fabulous in both contemporary and traditional interior design schemes.

Also stunning as a stylish room divider, the panel blind is available in a diverse range of colours and designs.

What makes the panel blind unique is the wide panels that reflect and filter daylight so effectively.

When open, the panels stack neatly behind one another allowing maximum light into the room. Sliding the panels into the closed position creates a complete fabric screen providing light control and increased privacy.

Venetian Blinds

Venetian blinds are available as pleated and traditional venetian blinds and can be designed to fit uPVC windows and doors including tilt and turn style and skylight windows.
Venetian blinds offer the following features:

* stylish and contemporary appearance

* quick and easy installation

* no holes drilled into windows or doors

* controls sunlight

* enhances privacy

* improves insulation

* easily removable for cleaning

* leaves window sills clutter free

An advantage of the Venetian blind system is the fact that the amount of light can be varied with raising or lowering the blind. Venetian blinds also give a degree of privacy whilst still allowing light into the living space

Vertical Blinds

Vertical blinds offer a similar light control function to Venetian blinds. Light can be continuously varied whilst provided a degree of privacy to the living space.

Pleated Blinds

Pleated blinds can be tailored perfectly into both rectangular windows and skylights or into those awkward spaces in conservatory roofs. With pricing very similar to ordinary fitted pleats, these high quality blinds will add grace and value to your special room.

Roller Blinds

Roller blinds are available in a very wide range of fabrics, colours and designs.

Many designs are available with sculptured lower edge that create a pleasing shape when partly lowered and give the blind a more finished and attractive appearance.

Roller blinds can be fitted to most types of window and conservatory.

Pinoleum Blinds

Roman blinds have a larger and bolder pleat. When raised, the pleats lie behind each other giving a very distinctive look.

The clean, modern outlines of Roman blinds has made them very popular for today's interiors, offering a stylish and economical alternative to roller blinds and pleated blinds.

Pinoleum Blinds

An exotic collection of woods and bamboos that filter the light into your room to create a calm, soothing ambience that can be adjusted as the climate changes.

The range of woods and bamboos are specially selected from sustainable forests around the world.

Natural weave blinds can be made to satisfy any style or shape of window. Roman style blinds are specifically designed for conservatory roofs and shaped windows.

http://www.toplinewindows.com

enquiries@toplinewindows.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bob_Sutton

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Home Lighting - Creating Illusions with Window Treatments

2008-05-24T07:59:00.000-07:00

Windows come in all sizes, shapes and construction. You can create illusions using standard curtains or other window dressings available today. Long drapes are more formal, short curtains tend to be more casual. You can use different styles to add to your interior decorating, such as country, with wide tidebacks and ruffles.

Curtains can help the following problems:

1. Small window – extend the rod beyond the window frame. This will create the appearance of a larger window. More light will filter through the opening.

2. Large window - Attach your rod in the normal position. Try using tiebacks on the curtains. Use a valance.

3. Short/Tall windows - For short windows attach your rod above the window frame. Taller windows will appear shorter if you use a draped valance. It will soften the window.

4. View – If your purpose is to hide the view, match the window color to your wall covering. It will reduce attention to the window.

Today there are so many choices - Vertical blinds, miniblinds, wood blinds, curtains, material and fabric shades, and shades of all types. You can keep it simple or layer the materials. Investigate the choices before you finish your room. If you give this some forethought, you can design your area to allow for changing window dressings each season.

Nan is an Accountant, Real Estate Professional and Business Writer. She has an information site online

HomeLighting and a blog for BusinessTips

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nancy_Woodward

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Window Curtains Ideas - Matching Colors and Coordinating Fabric

2008-05-23T09:12:00.001-07:00

Using Window Curtains Ideas: Matching Colors and Coordinating Fabric as a Room Focal Point

One of the secrets to decorating is to define a focal point in a room, and many rooms are just plain boring, lacking a focal point like a fireplace. Use your window curtains to turn your windows into the missing focal point. By using an eye catching pattern or color, you can relatively inexpensively dress up a room. The options for your window curtains are almost endless. You can add a valence or cornice with coordinating fabric draperies, use swags, blinds or shades to add interest.

Window Curtains

Set the Mood Use sheer curtains and laces to set a peaceful, light mood. Use bright colorful fabric for a playful mood. Use contrasting colors for a dramatic mood Use intricate patterns with brushed antique brass curtain rods for an elegant mood. Soft window curtains set a mood of comfort and luxury. Silk window curtains are classically formal while cotton and linen are more relaxed. There are limitless possibilities when choosing window curtains. Whatever your theme and mood for the room, reflect it with your window curtains.

Window Curtains: How to Match Colors

If you struggle with matching colors in your decorating endeavors, here is a tried and true secret which will have you decorating like the pros. Take a quick trip to the paint section of your local hardware store. You will find paint chips in different hues of one color, and paint chips with several complimentary colors. These colors where chosen by interior designers as tried and true color combinations. You can trust that these colors will go beautifully together! Use the paint chip to choose your wall paint color, coordinating pillows, furniture, and window curtains. You can't go wrong.

Another color coordinating tip is to create balance with contrast. Match floral fabric patterns with stripes. Contrast dark colors with light colors, large patterns with small patterns, and lines with circles. You can also contrast hot colors (like red, orange and yellow) with cool colors (like green and blue). For instance in a room with all cool blue walls and fabrics, a bright red throw pillow may be just the added to accent touch for a perfect balance. Contrasting colors include Purple/Orange, Green/Red, and Blue/Yellow.

Using these matching color guidelines to choose your window curtains will ensure a well decorated room that will please you for a long time.

Nancy is the author of this article. For more information about Decorative Curtain Rods, Please visit http://www.curtainrodstore.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nancy_Hardey

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Fabric Window Blinds - Dress Your Windows in the Latest Style to Impress Your Guests

2008-05-23T09:11:00.000-07:00

Are you looking for a new way to dress up your windows without replacing your curtains? Consider all the advantages that fabric window blinds have to offer:

Fabric window blinds can soften up any room of your home. In a room that has all hard and cold materials, fabric window blinds can make the room feel more cozy while maintaining the atmosphere of formality. Try adding fabric window blinds to your great room that has wood floors and leather furniture to give the room a softer feel.

Fabric window blinds can add new texture to a room. In a room that has all the same fabric materials, you can choose fabric window blinds of a contrasting texture. For example, in a room that has dark, soft microfiber furniture as the dominant fabric type, try adding fabric window blinds made of coarse linen or a transparent lace material.

Fabric window blinds can add new color to a room of your home. Windows are the perfect place to introduce splashes of color into a room for increased visual interest. And there are many colors to choose from when it comes to fabric window blinds, actually any color you can think of that fabric can be.

Fabric window blinds are versatile. Fabric window blinds can be used with any style of decor, from modern and contemporary to rustic and country to traditional and Victorian. Because of the multitude of different fabric coverings available, there is no problem encompassing each of these decorating styles.

Click on the link to learn more about fabric window blinds. They come in a variety of sizes, textures, and colors. They can be made to fit just about any window and can be purchased online. Click on the link to get all the facts and info at http://www.window-shutters-and-blinds.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Amanda_Taylor

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Window Coverings of Vinyl Blinds or Fabric are Beautiful

2008-05-23T09:07:00.000-07:00

When it comes to creating window treatments, it can be fun when done with a little knowledge! The choice of fabric will determine the extent of the decorative effect your window coverings will have. When you have a problem and you create window coverings to solve that problem, it is always a plus. Window coverings can serve a variety of purposes, ranging from decorating a room to hiding an unsightly view or filtering harsh light. When you've accomplished one of the above, your project is a success.

If you decide that wooden shutters or faux wood blinds are not on the agenda, you may want to settle for some modern light-weight sheers. These amazing window coverings will accomplish all three tasks and will give a pretty look, pleasant light and privacy. Sheers are manufactured today with a variety of embroidered designs integrated into the fabric. These embroidered designs will add interest to an otherwise plain organza, cotton or chiffon background.

If you have an irregular-shaped window either within your home or window with exterior vinyl shutters, mini blinds are sometimes a good choice as they are versatile and can be fitted to almost any regular shape. If you would like added privacy and have decided to go with sheers and you were using this fabric in a powder room, only one layer is necessary. This type of sheer is not transparent so light filters in and the room remains private. This can be very effective for other areas in your home as well. You can use looped cording that is attached to the top hangs and upholstery tacks to keep it in place. Even though sheers are an old-fashioned idea, when properly done it will add a regal air of aged sophistication. Sheers can be used in numerous different room designs and can be tastefully done in kitchens, sun porches and other areas where you would like the room to remain private. They are a good replacement for vertical blinds or wood shutters.

By Terry Price- Remember to visit- http://www.best-window-blinds-shutters.com/viny-blinds.html -Exterior wood shutters will add market value to your home! http://www.best-window-blinds-shutters.com/124-exterior-wood-shutters-design.html

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Terry_Price

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Making Your Own Contemporary Fabric Curtains

2008-05-22T08:04:00.001-07:00

Adding contemporary fabric curtains to your windows can be a lot of fun. You will find that when you make these yourself, you are going to get a great pair of sheer fabric curtains, and you will also get the satisfaction of making something decorative for your home all by yourself. There are two ways that you can make your contemporary fabric curtains, you can purchase a pattern to make them, or just measure the window you are wanting them for, and make them yourself with no pattern. This is not hard to do, and in just a few easy simple steps, you will have curtains hanging in your windows that you will love.

The first thing that you need to do, is measure your window. Measure the length as well as the width. Then you should decide how far you want your curtains to hang. Wether you want them to stop right below the window, or hang and puddle on the floor. Add these inches into your window measurements. Next you should decide on the rod sleeve, and the hem. You will need to allow inches for both of these, and you will find that the larger the hem on your contemporary fabric curtains, the better the curtains will look.

Once you know how much yardage of fabric you will need per window, you will be ready to go and buy the fabric for your curtains. You can have them cut each panel for you, so that you can just come home and sew, or you can cut them yourself once you get home. You also need matching thread, and you will be using a serger and a sewing machine.

Once you are home, press your fabric carefully. Be sure that you do not scorch it, but you want to get all of the wrinkles out of it as well. Next, decide where the sides are to the curtains, and just serge up the raw edges. This will give a finished edge, and you can then turn that under, and sew it done with the sewing machine. Be sure that you use thread that matches in your sewing machine, because one side of the stitching will be seen on the curtains when you are done.

Next you will pin up the hem at the bottom of the contemporary fabric curtains, and sew that into the fabric. Again the stitching will be seen, so use matching thread. Now it is time to serge the top, so that you can make a sleeve. Just serge the raw edges, so that your fabric will not come unraveled on you, and you can then pin the sleeve for the rod to slide through.

Make sure that you leave enough room in the sleeve for the curtains to slide easily over the rod. If the sleeve is too tight, you may end up stretching and tearing the fabric for your contemporary fabric curtains. Once you have made the sleeve, press the fabric once more, and you are ready to hang your new curtains.

Making contemporary fabric curtains is so easy to do. You will find that you will get great satisfaction out of making them yourself, and you will love completing a project on your sewing machine.

Mariette is an independent manufacturer of sewing products in her local community. She is also a freelance writer for numerous of quilting and sewing pattern books. Visit http://www.joannesway.com to learn more about contemporary fabrics and other innovative creations.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mariette_J._Wingeier

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Window Treatment - 5 Ideas For Arched Windows

2008-05-22T08:03:00.000-07:00

Arched windows are a bit of a challenge to decorate. Unlike regular windows, there is an extra element that you'll have to consider when picking the appropriate window treatment. There are certain things you can do to maximize the beauty of an arched window and enjoy the view it provides. Here are some ideas you can try:

1. Downplay the arch

Install a curtain rod across the top portion of the window and hang draperies. Pull back the fabric using decorative tiebacks that skim the lower line of the window's arch. This offers a subtle definition of the arch without making it stand out too much.

2. Hang curtains and draperies

Use curtain rods made from dark metal and hang curtains and drapery panels. The vertical line this creates helps promote a sense of height and is especially helpful if you want to impress the eye with the size of the arched window. This makes your arched window a focal point of the room, with the window treatment providing a simple accent that does not steal the scene from the window itself.

3. Swag the window

Swags reiterate the elegance of arched windows. Install one that barely skims the window's upper trim. Allow drapery to hang from the swag and work well with the window's natural curves and shape. If privacy is a concern, use sheer fabric for curtains to cover the lower glass panels.

4. Use blinds.

Blinds provide great coverage for arched windows and provide a good measure of control. You can adjust them to let in enough light or shut it out completely. Choose vertical or horizontal blinds, depending on the look you want for your arched windows.

In terms of material, you can pick from aluminum, vinyl, wood, faux wood and fabric. There are lots of colors to choose from and you're sure to find one that is a perfect fit for your home's particular color scheme.

5. Motorize your window treatment

If you have exceptionally large and white arched windows, a great window treatment to use are motorized blinds that come in different materials, including vinyl and fabric. Motorized blinds are usually custom-fitted and can provide a great view or much needed privacy at the touch of a button. They also make manipulating the window treatment a lot easier.

To learn more window treatment ideas, visit http://www.windowtreatmentideas101.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tim_Lee

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The Six Questions You Must Ask When Choosing Window Treatments

2008-05-22T08:00:00.000-07:00

In my previous articles, I discussed some of the basic window treatment types, and when to use them. From sheers to shades, blinds to shutters, the article gave you a solid understanding of the basic types of window treatments out there.

But now what? Each of these window treatments has their own unique benefits (not to mention endless fabric, color, and function options), so how do you find what is right for you?

Try this: take one window (or set of windows) at a time, and ask yourself the following questions. This will give you an idea of where to start your quest for your home's perfect window treatments.

How much privacy do you need?
We all want privacy when in the comfort of our homes. But some rooms need more privacy than others (think ground-level bathrooms, rooms that look out onto busy sidewalks or streets, etc.). In these rooms, above all else, you want a shade that can function as a barrier between you and the outside world.

So, look for opaque window treatments. Roman and roller shades typically use vinyl or polyester fabrics that can offer full, solid coverage.

Pleated and cellular shades can also be useful in providing privacy, provided that they use non-sheer fabrics. If you go this route, I'd recommend finding shades with blackout (or room-darkening) fabrics and even a duofold (top-down, bottom-up) option. Duofold shades allow you to open your shades from the top down, letting light in at the top, while maintaining your privacy at the street level.

Wood blinds and shutters will also provide a highly private environment.

If you like the look of sheer window coverings, you should know that they are less likely to give you full privacy, but it doesn't mean you have to rule them out. Simply find curtains or draperies that can be layered over the sheers when privacy is needed.

How much light do you want to flow in (and how much should be kept out)?
In a child's nursery or a media room, you may want the ability to block a lot of light for easy napping or just to reduce glare. In a small room, or even just a lively room, you may want to maximize light to keep the area open and airy. Window treatments can achieve both of these things.

For maximum light control, you'll want to find shades that use blackout fabrics. You might also try sunscreens, which are specifically designed to reduce the glare that incoming sunlight causes. Metal or wood blinds can be tilted to keep the direct sun out, while still affording some view and light.

On the other hand, when you want to increase the light that flows into the room, sheer window shadings are a great choice. Whether you choose sheer blinds or a drapery sheer, the window treatment itself will accent your window, and the sheer nature of the fabric will gently filter light into the room.

What does the room need?
Did you know you can look to your window treatments as problem-solvers? If you have any of the following concerns, the right shades or blinds may help:

Energy efficiency
Did you know that window treatments can actually insulate your home, trapping in warm air in the winter, and trapping in the cool air in the summer? Energy-efficient cellular shades add an extra layer of insulation to your home, saving you money on energy bills. If you like the benefits of cellular shades, but the look of drapery-style fabrics, try insulating roman panel shades. Covering a sliding door? Try Ovation.

Hard-to-reach windows
Consider how you'll operate blinds installed on very high windows. A variety of technology options exist today that can help you: remote controls, timers, you name it - raising and lowering your shades can be as simple as the click of a button.

Small room
You can actually place window treatments so that they create the illusion of height and depth in a room. An above-the-casement mount refers to window treatments that are placed higher than the window casing itself. It will create the look of height that you are looking for in a smaller space.

Do you have small children?
Long draperies and dangling cords can be a tempting plaything for small children, and even pets. So choose a window treatment that doesn't put them at risk. Cordless cellular shades are a very stylish option for families with small children - without dangling cords, you can feel confident your children are safe.

Some corded cellular and pleated shades are also safeguarded with cord connectors - this component snaps open when pressure is applied to the cord loop should a child become entangled, keeping them safe.

You might also try cellular verticals operated by a tilt wand. Not only are these verticals child safe, they are energy efficient and easy to operate. And if they don't have weights or chains, they're safe for children and pets alike.

What's your design style?
Style is the fun part of window treatments. Here is where you can choose fabrics, colors, and styles that will add your "personal design factor" to the room. It's where you pick out window treatment styles and options that make your house feel like a home. But where to start?

There are a number of design styles; from traditional to contemporary, you'll probably find, that while you like characteristics of many of the styles, most of your preferences will fall into one category. Discover your design style and read about recommendations for incorporating that style into your home.

Have you considered the environment?
If you're committed to living an environmentally-conscious lifestyle, your window treatments don't have to be an exception. Cellular shades are energy-efficient and will reduce energy use in your home. And if you buy wood alloy blinds, or faux wood blinds, you can often get a product that is made of recycled wood.

If you answer those six simple questions, you're well on your way to discovering the perfect window treatments for your home.

Stacey Wiktorek is a member of the in-house professional home design team at BlindCrafter.com, where she provides expert decorating and design advice for anyone looking to beautify their home. For tips and home design ideas, or to receive their monthly Customer Club newsletter with trends, advice, and exclusive coupons, visit their website at http://www.blindcrafter.com/kristinasdesignstudio.cfm

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Stacey_Wiktorek

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How To Clean A Really Dirty Stained Glass Window

2008-05-21T06:08:00.002-07:00

Once, I left a window to be cleaned for over a month. It was made with clear antique glass, so all imperfections showed up and the flux that had sat on the panel left the glass looking cloudy after a normal cleaning. I was really worried because I had done this to several windows and faced having to build them all again from scratch. Flux should be cleaned off of a window as soon as possible to avoid this problem.

I went to the grocery store and bought all the different types of cleaners, the orange stuff, regular blue cleaner, anything that might clean the fogginess away. I was desperate and nothing worked. Finally, in despair and not even thinking it would work, I went back to the way I had seen a friend clean a window years ago. It worked and the windows were saved.

To view the pictures that go with this article go to http://www.betterstainedglass.com/Newsletter/Archives/2006Nov-heavyclean/heavyclean.htm

1. This window was a good candidate for this cleaning method. It had flux on it, silver marker which is hard to clean and mold and mildew that grew when an artist friend had to leave it to sit for a long period in a damp environment due to health problems.

2. Start with a liberal application of your favorite cleanser. You'll need more than you think to absorb all the mess and get everything clean.

3. Use a hard bristle brush to scrub the window. A wallpaper brush can be used but we find a good cleaning brush is best.

4. As you scrub you'll find that the cleanser breaks down into fine particles. Just sweep them into a pile and scrub in the area where the pile is. And move the pile around the window in a methodical pattern. Add more cleanser as you need it.

5. In each section, on each piece of glass you need to brush in all directions. Back and forth,

6. Up and down,

7. And side to side. It also helps to use circular scrubbing motions. Before long, your arm will be feeling like it wants to fall off. Don't despair, just keep going over the entire window, one piece of glass at a time, getting it clean and moving on to the next.

8. As you clean, you'll notice that the cleanser turns from white to gray because its picking up debris and a fine layer of lead. So it's a good idea to wear a dust mask and do this in a well ventilated area.

9. The window fairly glistens from the scrubbing, but it's covered with cleanser dust.

10. In the summer, we just hose the panel off, in the winter we wet it down with rags and buckets of water. The secret is to wash it several times or flood it with a lot of water.

Here is the cleaned panel. We applied patina after the cleaning process above and then cleaned the window again using the method we described in last months newsletter, it takes a lot of effort and elbow grease to clean using this method, but the results are worth it.

For more articles on stained glass visit http://www.gommstudios.com/stained-glass-articles/articles.htm

David Gomm started building stained glass windows professionally back in 1983 and has become an expert at many aspects of stained glass building, design and repair. He writes a monthly newsletter at his better stained glass website.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Gomm

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The Window Treatment - Trends In Windows

2008-05-21T06:08:00.001-07:00

Trends come and go in fashion, but one that’s common today is the trend in furnishings to mimic the trend in fashions. Window treatments are striking a familiar color chord and picking up the flavors of details found in clothing, from bold prints to color pairings. In all, windows are heading in some interesting directions that provide more choices for homeowners at better than ever prices.

The new black

Far from dull brown, the new black is brown. But this isn’t your grandmother’s brown; it’s rich, deep dark chocolate brown. Paired with blue, teal, mint green, orange or apricot (it just sounds delicious), brown is coming back onto the window scene in a strong way. Brown evokes the color of tree bark and nature itself, making it a comfortable and relaxing color that has a strong presence without being overbearing the way black sometimes can. Brown is friendly and it’s a color most men love.

Cues from nature

Another strong theme in window treatments continues to be the use of natural materials. This can range from bamboo curtain rods, to reed shades, even bamboo fabric home items. Bamboo fabrics are showing up in clothing and in home furnishing lines, such as towels, blankets and sheets. Wood elements are also showing up in decorative accessories and elements. To bring a current twist to window treatments, try adding a small border of hand-carved wooden beads. This may be all it takes to make a window topper or panel feel more current.

Bold and beautiful

Strong patterns with bold color are another window trend that’s coming into fashion. Taking a bold pattern into a panel doesn’t make much sense, though, because the folds of the panel will make the bold pattern disappear. To make the most of bold, bright patterns, apply the fabric to window shades set inside the window openings. These look especially good in rooms with little color or pattern going on because the strength of the pattern on the window really pops against the plain walls. Or, apply a bold or busy pattern on a cornice – another window treatment that’s coming back into fashion again. Cornices allow for a big punch of color and texture without becoming a deluge. Paired with simple panels, a brightly colored or bold patterned cornice will add real design zing to a dull window.

Touch of luxury

Texture is also a key design trend in window fashions and luxury fabrics stand at the front of the line. Many are looking for privacy and old-fashion movie theater drama in their home theaters and velvet is the perfect option. The rich opulence of velvet is hard to beat except by one fabric and that fabric is silk. Nothing says richness like silk. Why? The drape. Silk floats unlike any other fabric and has tremendous body without feeling heavy in the room. Top that with the luxuriant luster of silk, and silk has a combination that’s hard to beat. It also says you are a fan of quality that nothing is too good for your windows.

Affordable windows

Window treatments used to be hard to find and were very high priced even for so-called inexpensive lines. But with the Internet and online shopping, now even silk and velvet window treatments are available to consumers at prices that won’t cause financial hardship. Some good options for luxury curtains online includes halfpriceddrapes.com or Crate and Barrel (crateandbarrel.com). The consumer faces an ever-widening field of window treatment options and choices. It’s nice to know that these choices also range in price that also matches the wide variety of window treatment styles today.

Kathryn Weber is a home and decorating columnist who welcomes your comments and questions. For more information, go to http://www.kathryn-weber.com or email questions to Kathryn@kathryn-weber.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kathryn_Weber

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Metal Awnings

2008-05-21T06:03:00.001-07:00

An awning, when installed over a window, a terrace or a balcony, provides protection against direct sunlight, wind drafts, rain or ice, without shutting out the surrounding view. The view of the house is enhanced when its doors and windows are covered with awnings of an appropriate color and style. Terraces, decks, and balconies can be converted into large covered areas that become airy attractive additional rooms with the proper use of awnings.

Metal awnings are usually made of aluminum, copper, iron, or steel, depending upon the architectural requirements of the building. Usually, vertical metal panel awnings and window or door awnings are of solid, stationary construction of strong ribbed heavy gauge materials, for all-weather durability against wind, rain, and sun. Depending on the individual shape and configurations, the awnings may or may not have distinguishable sides. Aluminum awnings are available in solid or striped styles and in several attractive colors. Metal awnings are available in several distinct types, depending on the functional requirements of the individuals.

Horizontal window panel or louvered awnings have an angled slat design with space between slats that enable the person inside the house to see out but prevent anyone from seeing in. Overlapping slat design also allows the sunlight to filter in indirectly. Aluminum slats are usually made of heavy gauge with a baked-on enamel finish that resists chipping, cracking, and peeling.

Retractable or roll-up metal awnings are usually constructed from flexible horizontal slats without any visible space between slats when the awning is in open position. They are controlled with a hand cranking device or cord pull. Storm awnings are specially made of heavy-duty materials and can be pulled down to cover and protect the entire window during a storm or worse, a riot.

Aluminum door awnings are designed for installation over the door to help keep stairs, entries, and landings free from excessive rainwater. They have to be installed with enough head clearance to allow the door to open. Copper, iron, or steel rigid type awnings are excellent for protecting doors and windows from the elements.

Awnings provides detailed information on Awnings, Retractable Awnings, Canvas Awnings, Window Awnings and more. Awnings is affiliated with Lattice Patio Covers.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alison_Cole

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Interior Window Sills

2008-05-20T07:28:00.002-07:00

Interior Window Sill

An interior window sill is that portion of the window ledge that stretches or protrudes into the interior of the room. The window ledge is horizontal and the interior window sill, which is horizontal and is next to the window sash when the window is closed. The interior window sill is also referred to as the window stool. Window sills may be made of wood, PVC, slate, granite or marble and even blue limestone.

Interior window sill use

Interior window sills may just be part of the décor or may be used for display. Artifacts, curtains, flower vases or even dolls to suit your style of decoration. Potted plants may also be kept on the interior window sills if they do not require too much watering. Adding thick curtains to the window enhances the effect window sills have on the interior decoration of the house and can also come handy when placing little trinkets or treasures.

Interior window sill types

Interior window sills are made of different materials. They are available in slate, limestone, granite, marble and the traditional wood. Modern day interior window sills are also made of synthetic materials like PVC. Old wooden boards can be replaced with new PVC window sills, which could have rounded, or straight angles. You can also use decorative end caps to give your interior window sill a designer look.

PVC interior window sill features

Modern day interior décor combines safety with aesthetics. Besides giving your home a designer look, PVC interior window sills also combine other important features. These PVC designer interior window sills are water resistant and fire resistant as well. Being easy to clean and maintain, these interior window sills also do not peel off or chip off like in wooden interior window sills. These window sills are also comparatively light in weight when compared with marble or granite window sills

Interior window sill care

Interior window sills must be cleaned and maintained to keep giving your home a clean look. You must not clutter up the window sill and remember it is not a dumping ground for your stuff. Keep it looking new and clean and dress it up well with curtains or plants or may be a doll or two.

Trevor is a leading home improvement author and writes often for http://www.homearticle.info. There are also more window sill articles on that site.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Trevor_H_Kronk

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Window Cleaning Tip- It's Window Cleaning, NOT Window Washing

2008-05-20T07:28:00.001-07:00

Whether you already own a window cleaning company or you are looking at starting your own window cleaning business. One of the first things you need to get squared away in your head is that you are a ‘window cleaner’ and in the window ‘cleaning’ business, NOT a window washer in the window washing business. You may think that the distinction is silly, but I guarantee you it is important.

While some people may think that “Wallys Window Washing” is a cute name, many people associate window washers with the guy who jumps on the hood of your car at a stop light with a squirt bottle and a rag offering to wash your windows. This is not the image I want to cultivate around my business.

The image you want to present to your customers is one of professionalism, legitimacy and competence. Whether in your business name or while talking to people, always use ‘window cleaning’ or ‘window cleaner’. Window cleaning sounds more professional and people associate it with educated, more refined people…the kind you would trust in your house.

Now window washing on the other hand sounds more common, less educated, and very fly-by-nightish. Think of it this way; If someone was looking through the phone book for a window cleaner and they see two companies:

Wallys Window Washing

Or

Reflection Window Cleaning

Who do you think that person is going to choose? Well statistically 9 time out of 10 that person will choose the more reputable sounding name.

The choice is ultimately up to you, but I promise you this little detail will make big a difference in your window cleaning business. Anybody can wash a window, but not everybody can clean a window, which is why you are able to make good money as a window cleaner.

Tanner Larsson is a window cleaning expert and the author of two bestselling books on teaching you to start your own window cleaning business. He also publishes the Window Cleaning Success newsletter. A free ezine dedicated to helping you start, run and grow your window cleaning business. Learn More:http://WindowCleaningSuccess.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tanner_Larsson

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Window Treatment - 5 Ideas For Arched Windows

2008-05-20T07:27:00.000-07:00

Arched windows are a bit of a challenge to decorate. Unlike regular windows, there is an extra element that you'll have to consider when picking the appropriate window treatment. There are certain things you can do to maximize the beauty of an arched window and enjoy the view it provides. Here are some ideas you can try:

1. Downplay the arch

Install a curtain rod across the top portion of the window and hang draperies. Pull back the fabric using decorative tiebacks that skim the lower line of the window's arch. This offers a subtle definition of the arch without making it stand out too much.

2. Hang curtains and draperies

Use curtain rods made from dark metal and hang curtains and drapery panels. The vertical line this creates helps promote a sense of height and is especially helpful if you want to impress the eye with the size of the arched window. This makes your arched window a focal point of the room, with the window treatment providing a simple accent that does not steal the scene from the window itself.

3. Swag the window

Swags reiterate the elegance of arched windows. Install one that barely skims the window's upper trim. Allow drapery to hang from the swag and work well with the window's natural curves and shape. If privacy is a concern, use sheer fabric for curtains to cover the lower glass panels.

4. Use blinds.

Blinds provide great coverage for arched windows and provide a good measure of control. You can adjust them to let in enough light or shut it out completely. Choose vertical or horizontal blinds, depending on the look you want for your arched windows.

In terms of material, you can pick from aluminum, vinyl, wood, faux wood and fabric. There are lots of colors to choose from and you're sure to find one that is a perfect fit for your home's particular color scheme.

5. Motorize your window treatment

If you have exceptionally large and white arched windows, a great window treatment to use are motorized blinds that come in different materials, including vinyl and fabric. Motorized blinds are usually custom-fitted and can provide a great view or much needed privacy at the touch of a button. They also make manipulating the window treatment a lot easier.

To learn more
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How Can I Create A Good Frame For My Stained Glass Panel?

2008-05-19T07:57:00.002-07:00

Well that is a very good question. You can create some very unique frames for your completed stained glass panels by taking old cabinet doors and making frames out of them.

Where can you find old doors? You can go to the local cabinet makers and ask them what they do with the old door they remove from a remolding project and see if they will give them to you. I have had good success with this. Also go to Lowe’s, Home Depot, Sears, or any home remodeling store and ask their installers what they do with the old doors. Many will be glad to give them to you.

Measure your stained glass panel and try to find a door the your panel will fit into. When measuring take into account you will need inside measurement (on the door) a 1/4 to 1/2 inch smaller both width and height than your stained glass panel. This will allow for setting the panel into the frame.

Once you get the door remove the center panel by cutting it out. There are many different types of center panels but you can usually figure out the easiest way to remove them by looking how they constructed.

Once you have the center panel removed create a rabbit cut around the opening to fit your panel into. Install your panel into the opening and secure it like you would in any other frame.

What is nice about this is if you get your hands on doors the match your present cabinets you can have a beautiful stained glass cabinet door or doors on your own cabinets for a great price.

Mike McDonough is and avid hobbyist. His primary craft hobbies include, stained glass, polymer clay, jewelry making, scrapbooking, and candle making. To learn more about these craft hobbies visit Mike at:http://efscrafts.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mike_McDonough

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Reinforcing A Large Panel

2008-05-19T07:57:00.001-07:00

We recommend that windows which exceed 3' by 4' in size be reinforced to prevent breakage. If a window is 3' by 3', it might not need to be reinforced, that's usually a judgment call based on where it is to be installed.

Go to http://www.betterstainedglass.com/Newsletter/Archives/2006Aug-reinforcinglargepanel/aug2006reinforce.htm to see the photos that go with this article.

In the old days, when a panel was large and needed to be reinforced, artists actually installed big pieces of rebar, no kidding rebar, in window frames and wired the stained glass to the rebar. This was an effective method of reinforcement, but it was far from attractive.

Now, I'm not complaining, but doesn't the art of stained glass have enough restrictions already? Are you telling me that I'm going to have to work my beautiful design around chunks of concrete reinforcement? Fortunately there's something fairly new on the scene to help in that area.

The secret? A thin strip of copper which is thin enough to fit between existing lead lines. You solder them in place and you've got a substantially stronger panel.

How can that be? It's so thin and floppy? See how easily it bends. That's part of what's so cool about this strip of copper, it bends easily in one direction, allowing us to follow the most meandering lead lines, but it's fairly rigid in the other direction, adding strength to the glass.

Before this new copper strip was available, we used to go to a sheet metal shop and have them cut 1/4" wide strips of thin gauge copper on the shear. Then we had to bend it to follow our lead lines using needle nosed pliers. It was fairly complex and when done, you still had a piece of copper that stood 1/4" above the surface of the window. It sometimes cast a shadow on the panel and soldering the back was a challenge as well.

When reinforcing a window (using this or any other method) it is important to remember that the reinforcement must run from one side of the window to the other to do any good. If a piece of copper is run to the middle and then it just stops, you will actually be creating a place where more stress will be applied to that spot and the window could break there.

The copper strip comes in a roll and will cover a lot of glass. The idea is to run the copper back and forth along lead lines so the glass will have more strength than it did before, and will transfer the stresses on it to it's outer edge where it is stronger since it's installed in some sort of rugged framework. This will prevent the glass from getting cracks either from being pushed on, or from the weight of the glass being pulled down by gravity over time and sagging.

This panel is so large that we need to reinforce it a great deal. I begin by running strips up and down the length of the window. I used some spray cans which were handy to weight the strip down in between the glass. Make sure if you use this method to remove cans before soldering because heat and pressurized cans can be hazardous.

At places where the copper strip intersects another piece of copper, I have to cut the new piece so I can continue on across the panel.

I bend a little "L" on the end so the copper won't slide as I install it. Then I gently press it in between the glass, the foil and the other copper strips. I use something to weight it down, or it will pop out from between the glass.

I then string the copper out to the edge of the panel. When doing this, I keep the roll of copper in the bag it came in and gently pull it out as I need it. I use care not to let it tangle or slip out of the bag so that I don't have to relive the disaster with my "Slinky" when I was a kid.

I use tin snips to cut the copper, about 1/4" from the edge of the glass.

With all the reinforcement strips in place, I begin to tack the glass together. I make sure that the glass is pushed into the right place (on pattern), the copper has a tendency to push things around. Arrows point to all the places where copper has been installed to properly reinforce this panel.

After soldering the panel, I need to clean up the areas where copper extends beyond the edges.

Using the tip of my soldering iron, I push the copper strip over the edge, which bends it.

Holding the strip in place with needle nosed pliers, I solder the copper against the edge of the foil. When it's done, you can't even tell that the window has been reinforced.

Since this panel is being installed in a door, once it's soldered, it gets sent out to be encased in tempered glass and insulated. The tempered glass adds an additional amount of strength to the panel.

David Gomm started building stained glass windows professionally back in 1983 and has become an expert at many aspects of stained glass building, design and repair. He writes a monthly newsletter at his http://www.betterstainedglass.com website. A gallery of his stained glass work can be viewed at http://www.gommstudios.com

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The Six Questions You Must Ask When Choosing Window Treatments

2008-05-19T07:53:00.000-07:00

How To Choose The Right Blinds For You

2008-05-17T21:29:00.001-07:00

The first thing to consider is what sort of window you want to cover. If your window looks out to a beautiful view and is fairly private then a soft draping blind such as a Roman blind is suitable. You can then raise the blind to a level you require, allowing access to the views while framing the window and view elegantly.

Roman Blinds are usually made from fairly light weight material; often sheer so are ideal for French windows and porches too whereby you do not want a full covering but some covering on occasions is useful.

If privacy is what you need a vertical or Venetian blind is ideal as you can let light in without becoming exposed to your neighbours. Venetian blinds are a stylish and modern option and can be adapted to suit any room from a study to a dining room.

Roller blinds are a straightforward approach to window coverings as they are fuss free and simple. Roll them up and down as you wish however they are more suitable if you are a less private person. Roller blinds are useful in bathroom windows where you may already have a disguising patterned or tinted window.

Today it is very common for buyers to opt for a wooden blind, wooden Venetian blinds in particular are very popular. Wooden blinds appear natural and can blend in very nicely with other interior furnishings. In order to choose an appropriate wooden blind, be sure that it matches with the furniture of the room in question.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Elena_Price

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Bay Window Curtains

2008-05-17T21:28:00.000-07:00

To answer the nagging question that so many bay window owners have, namely "How do I treat a bay window?" let's first take a look at what a bay window is and what that means to you the homeowner. A bay window is a recessed window with angled sections. So in essence it is like one large window, with two smaller angled windows on either side. For many, especially those with an outstanding view and with privacy and light control this should not be a concern because it is a great window to leave uncovered. Unfortunately most bay windows do not have fabulous views and plenty of privacy. Most bay windows require window treatments such as bay window curtains.

Each bay window is going to have a unique set of circumstances that will dictate what type of bay window curtain or treatment should be used. So, let's take a look at a few of these:

If your bay window has unique features, or maybe features handsome window frames, etc. consider playing them up with individual, inside-mounted cafe curtains, shades, or blinds. Roman shades with contrast banding are tailored and traditional.

For closely spaced windows, try a simple set of shades or blinds, and add a continuous valance or a series of shallow swags. If you can plan carefully, your bay window curtains will look lovely whether your blinds are up or down. If you should use a valance, plan so the top treatment conceals the under treatments when they're raised.

For many bay windows, you will want to use rod-pocket curtains or curtains on rings. If you have rod-pocket curtains and curtains on rings you should know that they may require a hinged, flexible, or custom-bent rod to fit your window properly.

If your bay windows are not closely spaced, and if there is enough space in between, hang a stationary panel between windows and at each outer window. For a bay window with little space between windows, flank the entire window area with a pair of panels and top the treatment with a cornice. This will give you the best looking results for whatever bay window you have.

Despite the stigma, finding the perfect window curtains for covering the bay windows in your home is easier than you think. You do not have to spend a whole lot of money to get bay window curtains that fit your needs. Affordable bay window curtains are available in various solid colors, print fabrics, and also in a huge selection of materials. You are not limited to one or two choices. You can also skip bay window curtains altogether and simply treat your bay windows with blinds and a window topper such as a valance or cornice. When it comes to bay window curtains you can choose from a variety of styles including... Pinch Pleated Drapes, Insulated Drapery Panels with foam backing, Tab Top Drapes, Velvet Drapes, simple valances, detailed cornices and more! And why not use a little of everything, for bay window curtains and drapes you can usually find bother the drapes and a coordinating valance top.

Have fun with your bay window curtains, and do not let the size or shape be an obstacle, rather make it a fun design challenge.

HomeBuildingRemodeling.com is a leading source of quality home building, remodeling and home design information. To receive free building and remodeling articles delivered daily by email, visit HomeBuildingRemodeling.com and enter your name and email under the Free Home Building and Remodeling Updates section.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dan_Calderwood

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Window Treatment Drapes - For A Total Harmony Into Your Applied Windows

2008-05-17T21:27:00.000-07:00

Window treatment drapes can take care of light and privacy matters carefully. Window drapes are typically made with dark fabrics, thus, perfect for those who wanted privacy in and lights controlled. The heavy fabrics can completely block the lights coming from the outside and sometimes block the noises as well. If you don't want your room to remain in the dark, the window treatment drapes can be tied back with their tied-back application.

Choosing window treatment drapes is also perfect in designing or upgrading the interior room as well. They soften the effect of the design of the room. Selecting dark, heavy colored window blinds can provide a contrast effect in the interior color emphasizing more its styling. In addition, window treatment drapes frame the windows making them even more a beautiful view.

The effect that window treatment blinds provide can affect the entire architectural design because of the lines, pleats, and sometimes floor-length features. They make this window treatment application in a manner that is formal for the aura or atmosphere of the room. Because of these effects, drapes are more often used inside the bed room or the living room.

Window treatment drapes are made to mount on top of the windows through the hooks that they came attached to the decorative rods. The decorative rods are stylish in their own nature so they add even more style on the application. In addition to the rods and hooks, the window treatment drapes also come with a kind of cord device that may hang behind either at the right or left of the panel.

When applying window treatment drapes, it is important to mount them in the window in such a way that they do not overkill the design and space of the room. They are usually floor-length so if the room is relatively small, the drape can take up most of the space making the room ridiculously out of place.

Also, as they are designed more to make the room more formal, it is essential to consider the equipments and furniture it has. The drapes must match these things and as well as the color of the room to avoid getting the less-desirable or inconsistent look or feel.

If you don't trust yourself that well when it comes to interior designing, consider asking an expert on this matter before getting the right kind of window treatment drapes. Doing so would avoid you from getting into hassles once you selected the inappropriate kind.

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href="http://www.windowtreatmentideas101.com/">http://www.windowtreatmentideas101.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tim_Lee

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Information On Bad Credit Loan

2008-05-17T21:14:00.000-07:00

Let's face it, no one even want to be caught in bad credit. However, what is bad credit? Well, I know I do. So if you want to find out more, you have come to the right place. This article tells you about it but firstly, you need to know what bad credit is.

Bad credit is a term in the financial world used to describe someone who is considered a "high risk" to lenders and other finance companies due to history of loans, mortgages and other financial aid. This type of borrower usually considered to be at very high risk of defaulting on their payment obligations set forth by the lender.

Firstly, you have to understand the nature of bad credit loans. Bad credit loan is not the same as you would get a car loan. This is because a bad credit loan is unsecured. Being unsecured means that you have no collaterals for the loan that you take. Obviously, that makes the loan inherently risky for a bank or other lending institution.

Secondly, you have to determine whether you qualify for the loan. It is necessary to fill out an application. A typical application requests:

- Your full name;

- Family financial information (they may ask!);

- Social Security Number;

- Reported Income statement;

- Other payment financial information.

Even though a person has a bad credit history, the loan officer will still review your credit worthiness.

A loan officer may help you in making your application more appealing by encouraging you to borrow a smaller amount of money or make payments over a longer span of time. In this way, your monthly payments can be lowered, increasing your chances of getting a loan.

Waiting time for applying such loan is usually pretty fast. Another advantage is that it does not require a formal closing. The application process consists of a written application, a promissory note, and a payment schedule. As a result, there is less paperwork and hassle involved in obtaining a personal loan than in obtaining a secured loan.

With loans like this, you may be able to defer payments for a period of months. You may also face no penalty for early repayment. The terms are also quite generous.

So, there you have it. All you need to know about bad credit loan. Put what you have learnt to good use and settle the bad credit loan as soon as possible. And the only way to do this is to get a loan as soon as possible.

Having a Bad Credit Loan aids in getting rid of your debts. Find out more about Debt consolidation and other topics like having financial aid by going to the website here ==> http://www.badcreditbin.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Joseph_Then

Arch Window Blinds - You Don't Have To Leave Your Custom Windows Naked Anymore

2008-05-16T08:01:00.001-07:00

Do you have naked windows in your home because they are an odd size or shape? With the advent of custom window blinds, even these windows can be clothed now, including arch windows.

Arch window blinds are one of the most popular types of custom window blinds available. Arch windows are becoming fairly common in newer homes because of the magnificent look they give to both the outside and inside of your home. Arch windows are also becoming popular additions for homes that are being remodeled as well.

But despite the architectural beauty that an arch window gives to your home and the outdoor world that it opens your home up to, covering an arch window can be difficult for times that you do not want the extra light to come in. That is why custom window blinds have been designed specifically for arch windows.

There are many manufacturers that specialize in custom window blinds for arch windows. Arch window blinds are made in different materials and different styles. This makes it possible for you to use arch window blinds as much for decoration as for function. Click on the link to learn more about custom window blinds for your arch window that will only add to the beauty of it. http://www.window-shutters-and-blinds.com/custom_window_blinds.html.

Arch window blinds should be chosen carefully so that they will not be distracting and take away from the look of the arch window. Most custom window blinds have a very simple look to them that does not make them stand out. Remember, you want the beauty of the window to stand out, not the custom window blinds.

Click on the link to learn more about arch window blinds. They come in a variety of sizes and shapes. They can be made to fit in just about any arch window and can be purchased online. Click on the link to get all the facts and info about window shutters and blinds at http://www.window-shutters-and-blinds.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Amanda_Taylor

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Arched Window Treatments

2008-05-16T08:00:00.000-07:00

With their defining overhead curves, Palladian and arched windows are beautiful additions to any room. Sometimes, though, one may want to play down the curves. One alternative is to subtly define the arch with drapery panels hung from a rod installed straight across the top of the window and pulled up and back with tasseled tiebacks, strategically placed at the bottom line of the arch. If privacy is not an issue for one's arched window, the treatment should be simply started below the arch leaving it unencumbered by fabric. In order to dress the entire window and flatter its natural shape, try using a swag and jabot treatment hung from an arched drapery rod installed just outside the upper trim. For privacy, you may outfit the lower glass with sheer cafe curtains or shutters. A great way to treat eyebrow windows is to follow the form of the arch with a bendable rod and a span of fabric. Hang handkerchief like pieces from decorative drapery pins or holdbacks that are installed in the window trim.

Arched windows look elegant and beautiful but are one of the most difficult types of windows to fashion. A lot of people who want to fashion their arched windows rush to experts to do the job as it seems a very difficult task to accomplish. These days, special arched window kits are available in the market, that ease up the task of fashioning and dressing curved or arched windows. Still, it is always better, as far as arched or palladian windows are concerned, to employ professional help to get the perfect and desired touch. A lot of Internet sites these days provide free tips on arched window decoration and fashioning. Even if you don't intend to do up your arched windows yourself, these provide great decoration ideas.

Window Treatments provides detailed information on Window Treatments, Custom Window Treatments, Bay Window Treatments, Discount Window Treatments and more. Window Treatments is affiliated with Discount Window Covering.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Eric_Morris

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Curtains And Drapes - Dressing Up Your Windows

2008-05-16T07:56:00.000-07:00

There are so many different window treatments on the market, that it can get confusing. You could even be tempted to just go with boring shutters, or cheap blinders. Basic functionality aside, these options leave a lot to be desired.

Curtains or drapes aren't just for decorating windows. There are three important functions they should provide in addition to the basic functionality of blinds or shutters. Which of the three is most important depends on your needs and preferences for the room.

The three functional elements of draperies or curtains

Privacy is an important feature of any window treatment. A fabric that is sheer works fine during the day, but falls short on privacy during night time. Any curtain set should include a thick material for privacy concerns.

Next, your drapes should provide control over the light entering a room. This helps with keeping temperatures cool during summer days, or with darkness for a much needed daytime nap. Any drapes or curtains you select for a window should provide this level of light control.

Last but not least, any drapes and curtains should compliment the decode of the room. A simple change in curtain material pattern can make a big impact on the look of any room interior. But this can also be the most difficult part of the selection process, since individual taste is involved. If there's more than one person involved in the decision process, it can become difficult.

The different types of drapes and curtains

Curtains and drapes are available in an almost unlimited array of prints, fabrics, designs and shapes. Sun facing windows are well served by thicker materials. More sheer material layers fit the bill for privacy without total darkness.

Your window treatments can be simple, functional and inexpensive, or you can go with pricier compliments to your home decode. Either direction that suites you, there are plenty of products available.

With all the different drapery styles and types available, the real trick can be in sussing out all the options to settle on the perfect curtains for you.

D Marx wrote Window treatments - drapes and curtains for http://www.Vinyl-Window.net - a free resource for any residential or industrial window needs.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=D_Marx

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Choosing Curtains for Home Decorating, Part 3

2008-05-15T08:29:00.001-07:00

Swags and Cascades

Swags and cascades are a dramatic treatment for windows. The swag is a drape of fabric which hangs in front of the curtains; the cascades are the elegant lengths of fabric that frame the window on either side. The more formal version is fixed to a valance board, but fabric can be draped informally over a rod as the only form of window dressing. Although the formal swags look best on tall windows, dressing full-length curtains, they can be effective scaled down to suit smaller windows.

Tiebacks

Curtains that are hung straight suit a very small window, or where you want a simple style, perhaps for a cottage look or a nursery. A straight curtain can look handsome, but consider tiebacks for a more decorative or elegant finishing touch.

No-sew tieback options include using a heavy cord and elaborate tassel, or you can loop the curtains behind metal or wooden holdbacks.

Lining

Lining adds insulation, protects the curtain fabric from the sun, and prevents fading. It also makes the curtains drape well. To add interest, use a contrast lining with a pattern or a coordinating color. Specialty linings, including room-darkening or thermal fabrics are available.

Interlining curtains with a soft layer of padding between the curtain fabric and lining makes them hang beautifully and gives extra insulating properties.

Sheers, Shades, and Blinds

One solution for problem windows, or bay or shaped windows, is to combine the curtain with a shade, blind, or separate sheer curtain.

A blind or shade works well on windows that are covered by curtains at night, but need alternative screening from excessive sunlight or prying eyes during the day, and they can be styled to match curtains.

A sheer curtain is another answer on windows where you need to hide a view, or have daytime privacy, because it allows light to filter into the room.

Curtain Accessories

Gleaming metal and softly draped fabrics are a magical combination in a window dressing. In a traditional style, hanging the curtains from a brass rod or on metallic rings, or securing them away from the window with wooden or brass tiebacks, looks luxurious.

For simple yet exciting window treatments, contrast the richness and softness of curtain fabrics against the ruggedness of iron rods. Draping delicate sheers over a matte black iron bar is very dramatic, and well suited to a modern decorating scheme.

©2007, Kathy Burns-Millyard. Kathy is a professional published freelance writer and commercial stock photographer living in Southeast New Mexico USA. Visit ElectronicPerceptions.com to see some of her latest photography, and to read more of her excellent content too.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kathy_Burns-Millyard

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Draperies Are A Cheap Fix For A Old Room

2008-05-15T08:28:00.001-07:00

The Aspen sheer organza drapes are an elegant way to emphasize natural light and air flow in a room. They are neat fabric coverings for windows. Vacuuming them once a week with an upholstery brush will extend the time between dry cleanings. You can layer your window treatments to mix textures, fabrics and colors to great effect. If low-light filtration is your prime objective, mount the curtain rod above the trim and allow the drapes to extend beyond the width of the window.

If you want a layered look, choose a double rod or convert an existing single rod into a double with a conversion kit. It drapes beautifully because it has some weight to it, helps to insulate things and wool doesn't deteriorate as quickly as other fabrics might in the sunlight.

Be sure to line silk sets to make sure that you get a long lifetime out of a window treatment because it deteriorates quickly. Today's drapes are not only about fabulous fabrics, they're also about the hardware, which includes the rods and finials (ornaments that decorate the ends of the rods). Wall to wall broadloom and matching colorful window sets complete a useful and beautiful room. More fabric requires more stacking width, pocket drapes require more stacking width than draperies on rings, or tab tops.

The nice looking sets are mostly decorative and the blinds are thick and beveled to help diffuse sound evenly throughout the room. Unlined treatments are good alternatives when you want the most economical window covering.

Loraine DeJona is an expert in this area and has posted more free tips, articles and solutions at http://www.windowdrapesandcurtains.com/Draperies.php

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Loraine_DeJona

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Exterior Window Shutters

2008-05-15T08:27:00.000-07:00

To better improve the beauty of either an old or contemporary home, nothing is better than installing exterior window shutters.

Available in a variety of shapes and sizes, window shutters can add color and style to any home and even provide a wonderful finishing touch. Before purchasing any home improvement fixture, it is important to know if the product is durable and made of high-quality materials.

Synthetic window shutters made from vinyl and plastic are inexpensive and are available in many home improvement stores. These shutters have the look and feel of plastic, and they cannot be stained nor painted. Exterior wood shutters are more beautiful and useful than their synthetic counterparts.

The best wood to use for exterior window shutters is cedar since it is more durable and will not decay due to moisture. It has natural oils that both prevent moisture and repel insects. Cedar is a low-maintenance product and is usually used in a wide array of fixtures outside the house such as patio furniture, fences, trellises, mud sills, and siding. It is stable and can even be painted.

Prior to installing the window shutter, the exterior should have a complete finish with no unprotected part. All its parts should be completely covered by stain and have several protective coats of paint. The brush can be used to apply the paint or it can be sprayed with the use of an airless spray system.

When buying exterior window shutters, it is important to choose the material, whether it is wood, synthetic, or wood composite. Then, determine whether you want a traditional or a plantation style, after which you can choose either a painted or stained finish. It is also important to decide on the method of pricing and panel configuration.

Window Shutters provides detailed information on Arch Window Shutters, Custom Window Shutters, Exterior Window Shutters, Hurricane Window Shutters and more. Window Shutters is affiliated with Window Roller Shades.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Steve_Valentino

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Re-Applying Patina To A Stained Glass Panel

2008-05-14T06:56:00.002-07:00

1. Sometimes, a piece of stained glass will lose its original brightness and color that the lead lines once had. Also, mold or oxidation will form on the lead lines occassionally. The blackness or copper of the patina will dull and you find that there is a buildup of pale corrosion around the edges of the lead lines. Now I don’t know if these steps apply to leaded windows, but they work well on a copper foiled (Tiffany-Style) panel.

2. Get your favorite cleanser (the kind you're never supposed to use except when revitalizing a window) and a stiff brush. (An old tooth brush will work fine or you can use a household scrub brush.)

3. Apply a light coating of cleanser.

4. Add a small amount of water and scrub the lead lines. Make sure to scrub each direction to remove any corrosion that has formed around the lead lines.

5. After both sides of the panel have been cleaned, rinse the cleanser off and dry the panel well. It's easy to rinse off in the sink or with a garden hose. If water is not easily available, get a bucket or pan of water and use rags to rinse off the window.

6. Next you'll need your blacl or copper patina and a rag that you don't care about. You need it to be cloth, paper towels disintegrate and even rags get eaten away by the chemicals in patina. We always discard a rag that has been used with patina because it will decompose after a day of patina exposeure.

7. Apply the patina liberally. If you only put a little on, the chemical reaction doesn't work right. Black patina will try to go copper and copper patina will try to go black. Sometimes crystals form on the edge of the bottle of patina. They form after the chemical has been sitting, so always shake the bottle before applying patina. Take your rag and apply a liberal coat of patina. Don't be afraid to use a lot. You'll have better success with more of the chemical.

Wash and dry the window thoroughly. Leaving patina on the glass can cause it to discolor.

Finally, the panel is the completed. For additional steps, Review our article on "Studio Chemicals” at www.betterstainedglass.com

You can view the pictures that go with this article if you go to http://www.betterstainedglass.com/Newsletter
/Archives/2006May-reapply/reapplypatina.htm

David Gomm started building stained glass windows professionally back in 1983 and has become an expert at many aspects of stained glass building, design and repair. He writes a monthly newsletter at his better stained glass website.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Gomm

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Odd Shaped Window - No Idea How To Dress It ?

2008-05-14T06:56:00.001-07:00

Check this out to get some practical window treatment ideas for your own home. Guides to the do's and dont's. They should give you some food for thought before you leap in and get started. (the other option.................brick your window up and have done with it. What do you think ?)

Answers to a Tall and Narrow window ?

My window treatment ideas for this kind of window. Set the curtains wider than you would normally. This gives the illusion of a wider window. Make the rod or track around 30cm wider each side of your window. Rather than the usual 20cm. Then when you open your curtains don't push them back as far as you would normally.

Wide window causing a problem ?

Window treatment ideas for this kind of window are to not set the curtains to wide off the window. Probably only 15cm at most. Even though you have a lot of fabric to stack back when they open. You can use tie backs to hold them off the window. Another option is to use a thinner fabric.

Another thing that works well to give the window height is a valance or pelmet. Only rather than the usual 20cm depth make it 30 -35cm deep and fix it higher on the wall. So with the curtains not set to wide and a deeper top treatment this gives the illusion of a squarer window.

The dreaded arched windows !

Best window treatment ideas for arched windows. Most folks find this style of window a real pain.

It can be as simple or as complicated as you want to make it.

The easiest thing to do is so simply fit a curtain rod straight across over the window and hang a pair of curtains. Just simply treat it like any other window.

If you want to work with the shape (talk about making life hard for yourself) and have curved top curtains that drapes back into tie backs, then this what you must do. On the width measure every 15cm across the window put markers on the window sill. Then note the full window width.

Next measure and make a note of both outside straight edges up to where the arch starts. Finally at each of the markers on your window sill measure straight up from the sill to where the tape measure touches the curve. make a note for a these vertical measurements. It's a good idea to make a quick sketch of the window and jot your sizes next to the places where you measured.

If someone is making the curtains for you just give them the sizes as measured. If your having a go at making yourself then (take a tranquilizer) you need to multiply all your width sizes by 2.5 to allow for gather.

What to do with a door curtain!

Window treatment ideas for doors. Normally you would have a single curtain drawing back to the hinge side of your door. It makes a lot of sense to have the curtain tied back. (otherwise your door curtain will end up flapping like supermans cape every time someone opens the door on a windy day)

Sometimes there is not enough room on the hinge side of the door for the curtain to stack back off the door properly. You can have the curtain draw back the opposite way as long as you have room to draw the curtain completely clear of the door.

If you only have a small space on the hinge side of your door and no room the other side. Then the best option is to have an eyelet curtain on a rod with 1.5 X width of the door. This will stack back into a very small space.

Kitchen window Ideas

Window treatment ideas for kitchens. Your over sink curtains should be a few cm's short of the work surface even if this means just reaching the window sill. Also generally tied back to avoid splashes. (your kitchen floor will still end up flooded when the kids wash up after dinner, but at least your curtains should stay dry)

Another suggestion is don't use curtains and if you need privacy then fit a roller blind with moisture resistant fabric.

Another thing to consider if you really do want curtains is having unlined curtains made of a good polycotton fabric. This will enable you to launder your curtains whenever they get cooking smells on them.

Great Ideas for you bathroom

Window treatment Ideas for your bathroom. If you have a window over a bath or shower. Then don't bother with curtains full stop. It will be a complete waste of time and effort.

Really the only practical thing to do is fit a roller blind with a moisture resistant fabric.

If your window is away from the bath or shower then go for it and have some curtains. Even still keep them short and have them unlined. also pick a fabric that will launder well and dry well if they become damp with steam in the bathroom. Polycotton fabric are very good for this.

One last idea is to have a polyester sheer curtain on a rod drawn right across your window and scooped back into a hold back arm that matches your curtain rod. Dressed properly this can look very soft and feminine. Whilst giving you some privacy.

Patio doors and French doors !

Window treatment ideas for patio and French doors. these are great windows to have allowing lots of light into your room.

One of the drawbacks can be lack of privacy on occasion, or the sun maybe a problem.

An easy way to solve this is to fit a sheer curtain on its own rail fixed in the window recess behind your proper curtains. You can then open and close them to suit.

Panel track blinds a really great idea for large windows like this. They are very modern and contemporary. They can be opened and closed by moving the panels by hand or by pulling a cord. Just like a standard corded curtain rail.

The proper panel tracking system is a fairly pricey piece of kit. There are other ways of getting a similar look. I am sorting out some info on this and will put a new article out very soon

I hope this helps you with your "odd" shaped window.

Lee Stevens From Window treatments Made easy
http://www.window-treatments-made-easy.com
Luck is where the crossroads of hard work and opportunity cross.

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Popular Window Treatments

2008-05-14T06:53:00.000-07:00

1. Wooden venetian blinds, are a very popular choice for window treatments. They look good and sophisticated in a basically any room, whether it is a study, library or bedroom. Also this is a great window treatment option as it can be found in lots of finishes, from light to dark mahogany. Also wooden blinds are a popular window treatment because they have fabric tapes, which come in a wide range of colors, and can be coordinated with the fabric on upholstered furniture, etc.

2. Metal blinds, are a popular window treatment despite the harder look they offer than wooden blinds. So, they are a popular window treatment for the office, but not as popular for residential use.

3. Shutters are a popular window treatment that can darken a room well and offer a lot of privacy. These are most compatible with country -style interiors. Painted white or stained dark, these popular window treatments work well in libraries too. For larger eclectic or contemporary-style rooms, wide plantation shutters, from floor to ceiling, can make quite a dramatic statement. While shutters can be costly because they are generally custom-made, they are a popular option because they make truly elegant window coverings.

4. Sheer curtains are a popular window treatment option as they can be used in many instances. Not only do they allow light in, they offer privacy as well. If you choose a plain sheer, without any pattern, you won't draw attention to the window treatment and away form the room. This is what a window treatment should do, add to the room without drawing too much attention to itself.

5. Lined curtains is another popular window treatment. Lined curtains in heavier fabrics will always remain a classic. The downside to this classic window treatment is that it does not work if you are going for a lighter look, and it requires a lot of maintenance, even in the winter months. If you choose to use a lined fabric on your windows, hang it on wooden or metal poles with coordinated rings and finials for a more polished look.

6. Balloon shades are a popular window treatment option for bedrooms. They work best in traditional homes. These are romantic shades, and they block more light and view in the "up" position than any other treatments because they cover one-third to one half of a window's top surface at all times.

7. Roman shades are a great option if you want a lighter look in your house. They give more light control while using less fabric. They can be made from a dreamy, gauzy material or canvas, whatever your preference.

8. Bamboo blinds are also a popular option, but they are best when hung with lined curtains if you want a traditional look. Hung alone, they convey a tropical look. Matchstick blinds are an inexpensive alternative that are easy to maintain.

9. Duette shades are also very popular. These popular window treatments are available in transparent, semi-opaque, opaque and blackout densities. This is an especially popular option for people who work nights and want to sleep during the days, or that like to sleep in. The blackout feature makes your bedroom dark whenever you want it that way. This is also a popular option for nurseries as babies sleep during the day, and it allows you to make the room dark, even at 11 or 2 or whenever.

HomeBuildingRemodeling.com is your source for top quality home building, remodeling and home decorating information. For free articles delivered daily by email, visit http://www.HomeBuildingRemodeling.com and enter your name and email under the Free Home Building and Remodeling Updates section.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dan_Calderwood

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Replacement Windows Add Home Value

2008-05-13T08:12:00.001-07:00

You see the world from your windows. From inside your home you view the world and your neighborhood, so they are an important facet of your home. You can add so much character to your home by perfecting your windows.

Windows bring light to your house and provide a lovely view. Your windows add charm and class to your home so if you want to replace a window it is an important decision. You can give your home great energy savings by installing replacement windows. You can also change the character of your home and the value can rise when you install certain windows, such as vinyl windows or hurricane windows.

Replacement window options

You can find the perfect replacement window to suit your taste and your home. Here is a guide to some very common styles.

1. Casement windows have 1-2 panes and are hinged at the side. The open enough to let in light, but they usually only open 15-30 degrees.

2. Like a sliding glass door that slides one piece of glass behind another that is how a slider window will work.

3. You can get good ventilation with a double hung window that has vertical sashes.

4. You can increase the feel of your room and give extra seating space by installing a bay window in your home.

5. A bow window is like a bay window because it also goes outwards from your home. These are somewhat different because the sashes are angled to give a lovely curve effect rather than just a sharp 3-panel effect you find in a bay window. You can have any number of sashes in your bow window.

6. Many times a garden window can be installed in your kitchen and will also extend outwards from your home. You can use them with your favorite plant arrangement or even an herb garden.

7. A skylight is a love installation to add more light to a darkroom, but is not used for ventilation purposes generally.

You can add a great deal of charm and grace to your home by installing the right kind of replacement window. You should try to stay away from offers by door-to-door salesmen, because many of these offers will also come with a higher price. Make sure you know exactly when you need for your home and take the time to hire a pro to install your windows. You will be happy when you made the right choice of windows for your home.

Johnathan Bakers is publishing most often for http://www.replacement-windows-tips.com , an online site on the topic of home builidng , construction and other ideas. You can learn about his publications on replacement windows at http://www.replacement-windows-tips.com and other sources for replacement windows news.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Johnathan_T._Bakers

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How To Buy Curtains

2008-05-13T08:11:00.000-07:00

The way you dress your windows can completely transform the look of your home, so pay attention to detail and pamper your window panes.

Window dressings serve a number of different functions from drawing together an interior scheme to cutting sunlight and creating a sense of privacy. If you're a fan of curtains, whether modern or theatrical, the options available to you are extensive, so you should have no problem finding something to suit your style.

Modern Curtains

Trends in curtain fabric are constantly changing, but the tricks for making them work remain the same.

• Be generous with layers of sensual fabrics; for example, a silk or velvet curtain teamed with a sheer fabric backdrop. In a modern space, prevent curtains from looking heavy and old-fashioned by keeping the tops and the curtain poles simple.

• Decide whether you want your curtains to fall to the window sill or to the floor. When measuring up for fabric, allow an extra 10cm for the top seam, and an additional 20cm for a double hem at the bottom to make sure the fit is perfect for your room.

• If your window treatment has pleats at the top, multiply the length of the track or pole by two and a half. For tab or tie tops, measure the length of the pole or track and allow an extra 5cm on each end of the fabric for seams.

• When buying curtain fabric, it is also advisable to allow extra length to cover the possibility of shrinkage during dry cleaning

You can find more information on window treatments and window treatment ideas at house to home, helping you create a look you'll love

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Penny_Day

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Finding the Right Window Coverings for Your Home

2008-05-13T08:08:00.000-07:00

When deciding on window coverings for you home, you'll want to keep a few things in mind. You'll want to consider your privacy, the amount of light you want blocked the style of the window covering.

Some types of window covering you can consider are:

* Roller/Fabric Shades: These are shades that roll down close to your window and generally provide complete coverage of your windows. They can be vinyl or fabric and can custom-made to your precise window size. This type of share is quite plain, but if you need coverage, you can add a bit of style with some curtains.

* Venetian Blinds: Made from horizontal metal or wooden slats. They come in a variety of colors and sizes. They provide quite a bit of privacy, while allowing some view to the outside. If you have children or pets, these types of blinds are easily damaged with physical handling.

* Vertical Blinds: These are typically made from cloth (or cheaper varieties are made from plastic) and are vertical slats that can be closed with a pulley-system to provide some privacy. Again, these types of blinds are often easily damaged by little hands and paws, but the cloth varieties seem to withstand more wear and tear than Venetian blinds.

* Curtains & Draperies: These are made from a variety of fabrics and can provide full or partial window coverage, depending on the style you prefer. If you are only using curtains for privacy, ensure there is enough fabric to completely close off any openings.

* Sheer Curtains & Draperies: For minimal privacy, particularly in the daytime, you might try sheer curtains. If you need nighttime privacy, consider having opaque curtains or draperies on top.

Note: If you are using blinds or curtains with drawstrings, you'll need to consider safety of any children that may be in your home. Children can and have hung themselves to death on these items. If children are in your home, always tie up the drawstrings to put them out of reach of little hands. Some newer window covering options include a breakaway cord to keep children safe.

So what about style? Here are some thoughts on the topic:

* Use colors or fabrics that appear elsewhere in your room on your window coverings.

* Curtain rods can add plenty of style to a room. They come in a variety of shapes and colors.

* Don't be afraid of a little color and texture in your blinds. There are so many options these days. Check them all out and make the right decision for you.

Many homes are sold with boring old Venetian and vertical blinds in neutral colors. Don't limit yourself to the boredom. Even if you keep the existing blinds, you can add curtains and other decorative window coverings to brighten up your room.

Rebekah Slatkin runs a local organizing and design company in Baltimore, MD. Go to http://www.RebekahSlatkin.com to read more organizing and decorating tips you can use no matter where you live!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rebekah_Slatkin

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Window Faux Wood Blinds- Wooden Window Blinds, Without The Wood

2008-05-12T07:32:00.001-07:00

So you’re tired of having to replace broken vinyl window covering blinds and you’re looking for something more durable. You like the look of wooden window blinds, but you don’t like the expensiveness of wooden window blinds. But now, you have stumbled upon a smart choice that gives you durability for less – window faux wood blinds.

So, what are window faux wood blinds? This type of wooden window blinds look alike is made of a durable long lasting polyvinyl instead of wood. This lowers the cost, but gives you the same look and durability as wooden window blinds.

Window faux wood blinds come in many different styles, textures, and colors. Some window faux wood blinds are made of smooth textures that have the appearance of sanded and treated wood. This style works great for traditional, contemporary, or modern styles of décor. Other types of window faux wood blinds come in a rougher texture that gives the blinds character. This style fits right in with rustic or country decorating styles. The smooth style of window faux wood blinds can also be painted any color you may choose. Window faux wood blinds are much easier to clean compared to traditional wooden window blinds. They wipe off easily with a damp cloth.

So if you are looking for some new window covering blinds and like the look of wooden window blinds but not the cost, consider installing window faux wood blinds. Your window covering blinds will look exquisite, and no one will ever know how much money you saved unless you tell them.

Click on the link to learn more about window faux wood blinds. They come in a variety of sizes and shapes. They can be made to fit just about any window and can be purchased online. Click on the link to get all the facts and info about window shutters and blinds at http://www.window-shutters-and-blinds.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Amanda_Taylor

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Shabby Chic Window Treatment Ideas

2008-05-12T07:31:00.000-07:00

Are you wondering what to use for window treatments in your Shabby Chic decorating style room? Here are several ideas to consider that are easy and will add that special Shabby Chic touch to any room.

We think of window coverings are something to provide privacy and to let in (or keep out) light, heat, or cold. However, Shabby Chic window treatments are a great way to add decoration to a room by providing a “frame” for the window.

In the Shabby Chic decorating style use fabrics that are simple and relaxed rather than fussy, use something soft rather than stiff, and use something which is loosely shaped rather than a tight configuration. Window dressings with a rounded rather than a hard-edged look are more casual than formal and better fit the Shabby Chic decorating style.

For an unstructured, effortless look, windows can be swathed with an ample amount of loose fabric that is allowed to puddle gently onto the floor. The simplicity of a plain white blind or a Roman shade works nicely to provide privacy. If you want a more formal but casual Shabby Chic look, consider using light easy-care fabrics such as lightweight velvet, muslin or poplin to create a draping effect.

One of my favorite Shabby Chic window treatments is to use small, wooden slat salmon-colored window shades with a medium-weight cream-colored lace valance. It provides privacy as well as adds a soft touch of color to the room and the lace valence provides a touch of elegance.

A tapestry swag valance with a sheer underlining draped loosely over a curtain rod is another attractive window covering to use in a Shabby Chic room. The curtains have a softer look while adding a touch of formality to a room.

A basic home decorating idea to remember is to never skimp on yardage when choosing fabrics. Insufficient width or length of fabric can take away from the elegant and luxurious look of a window treatment whether it is Shabby Chic or any other decorating style.

To help keep your home organized, download a free copy of the ebook "The Essential Guide to Organizing Your Home". This ebook has many practical, easy-to-use tips to make home organization a reality. Click here for your free download.

Lynn Cressy is the owner of Lynn's Home Decor where you will find a variety of home decor including seasonal decor, shabby chic home decor and furniture, wrought iron home decor and furniture as well as ebooks and home decorating ideas.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lynn_Cressy

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3 Simple Ideas to Make Your Own Inexpensive Curtains

2008-05-12T07:30:00.000-07:00

When we decide to spruce up our house, one of the first things that come to mind is a curtain. There are many types of curtains on the market. Lots of fabrics, colors, designs and styles to chose from. But sometimes, regardless of the vast variety available, we simply can’t find what we’re looking for, and often times when we do, we can’t afford it.

The truth is, you don’t need anyone to do it for you; you are as capable as it takes, to do it yourself! Let’s see how we can become designers of our own space using basic tailoring techniques.

Let’s start by the most prominent, the material. The fabric. Choose a fabric that you like. Avoid quilted fabrics as they can stretch or shrink over time. Fibers like cotton and linen and especially those with polyester and micro fibers, hold up better than others. Also avoid silk or silk blends, because they tend to rot and fade very quickly. Make sure you buy enough fabric; you don’t want your curtains to look poor. Double height of the window and three times width, should be fine.

In this article, we will examine the three simplest sewing and hanging techniques for curtains.

For curtains with rings, you need to stitch an approximately 3-inch hem at the edge of the curtain panels that are going to be hung. Now, sew each ring to each curtain panel leaving small distances between the rings so that the curtain is pulled easily. You can also use clip-on rings that don’t need to be stitched and are easier to apply.

For tied tab curtains you will need to create the hangers. Simply stitch horizontal buttonholes at the top of the curtain panel. Now you can make the hangers using the same fabric as the curtains, or another but suitable fabric for a little diversity. Make threads and place through the buttonholes.

No Sew Curtains are also a smart and easy way to make curtains and decorate a window. In this case the fabric should be 3 inches more than double the height of the window and 2 inches more than the width of the window. Pull the fabric through the rod and fold evenly. Now stitch the two ends of the fabric at the bottom and at the sides together. When the curtain is ready, place a single fabric band in the center of the curtain or use two purchased tiebacks evenly spaced along the width of your window. Then adjust folds of fabric panel as desired.

Gather your supplies, fabric, scissors, screws, rings or ribbon, and use your imagination. In less than an hour you will manage to decorate that empty window effectively and inexpensively. But the most important thing is that you will have your own personal work to show off in your house.

Making Your Own Curtains Can Be Fun and Inexpensive! For More Information, Tips and Simple Step By Step Instructions, visit The Curtain Cart at http://www.curtaincart.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Charles_Kassotis

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Things To Look For When Buying - Interior Concerns

2008-05-11T07:13:00.001-07:00

When buying a home, you naturally want to get the best home possible for your money. One thing that you can do to ensure that you are receiving a quality home is to check the interior for faults or things that may require fixing or replacing. The following is a list of interior concerns and things to check before making an offer on any home.

Discoloration - This is a huge issue in some older homes. Discoloration on the walls, ceiling, or floors can indicate a leak or mold growth. Leaks in the roof or plumbing can be costly and drastically affect the integrity of the home.

The Electrical Panel - It's always a good idea to have a look at the breaker box/panel when considering the purchase of a home. The panel can indicate the quality of the wiring and electrical system. If the panel is disorganized, then the wiring may be as well.

Basements - If the home has a basement then it is definitely a place you will want to check out. The condition of the basement can be telling of the quality of the foundation of the home. Cracks in basement walls could easily mean that the structure has faults.

Bathrooms - Bathrooms should always be checked for softness around the toilet and sink. If there is softness around these areas you may have to put in a new floor. It can also be indicative of a plumbing problem with the toilet, sink or tub/shower.

Windows - Fogged windows can mean broken window seals. This in turn means higher heating bills during the colder weather.

Smell - If there are any unpleasant smells in the home take note. Musty smells can indicate mold or mildew growth. Either can be a big drawback in a home.

Jake Marsh is an experienced, professional real estate agent with a degree in marketing, who specializes in

Denver, Colorado real estate

For access to Denver MLS listings, contact Jake today.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jake_Marsh

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How To Repair A Leaded Glass Panel

2008-05-11T07:12:00.000-07:00

We recently repaired and replaced a leaded glass panel. This was a repair to a leaded window and we traditionally use the copper foil method developed by Tiffany studios in the early 1900's. So we were mixing two styles of glass construction. The results were perfect.

1. A client called and asked us to repair a window in their home. The window had a broken piece of glass and we would need to take it from their home, repair it at our shop and reinstall it in their entryway.

2. The window frame had been assembled with 45 degree miters in the wood, which required that the nails be removed in order to get the wood out. Fortunately, the nails used were very thin pin nails, similar to a staple in size, so I was able to break the fasteners with a sharp rap on a putty knife at each nail.

3. Once all the pin nails were cut, I was able to carefully remove the wood from the frame work.

4. The leaded panel was very tight in the framework, which is rare, and I had to gently work the panel loose so as not to break it. This installation had one piece of tempered glass on the outside of the door frame and then the art glass. In our studio we insulate window units so that there is tempered glass on each side of the art glass.

5. Because the tempered glass was still in place, I simply replaced the wood pieces back in the frame till the reinstall took place. Normally we put a piece of cardboard or plastic in the opening while it awaits replacement.

6. When I got the panel back to our studio, I first traced the outline of the panel. I knew that since this window was so tight, I had to be absolutely sure that it didn't grow on me in the repair process.

7. I heated the joints of solder and, using pliers, rocked the outer bar back and forth until the outside strip of zinc came loose from the panel.

8. Using a razor blade knife, I loosened the cement joint between the lead and the glass so that I could remove the glass pieces.

9. Once the cement was loose from the glass, I was able to de-solder the joints and work the lead free from the glass.

10. Next, I applied clear tape to both of the broken sides of the glass so that as I eased it out of the panel, it would stay in one piece which I could use as a pattern for the new replacement glass.

11. Once I had the cement and glass loose from each other, I applied gentle pressure on the glass and spread it apart so it was easy to remove from the panel.

12. I used the removed piece of glass as a template to cut my replacement pieces. Since the glass was a close match, but not quite perfect, I replaced both of the pieces so that they both looked the same. Your eye would notice the difference if only one of the pieces was replaced, but couldn't see the small difference since both were replaced.

13. Next, I nailed down the panel on the pattern I traced earlier, so I could make sure the window stayed the right size.

14. Then I slid both of the replacement pieces of glass into the lead came.

15. I tapped them into place tightly using gentle pressure from a glass hammer.

16. Then I nailed the outside lead, in place making sure that the glass was tight and inside the lines of the pattern.

17. Up until this step, the techniques I used are those that both a copper foil artist and a lead artist would use. From this point on, I focused on copper foil methods. I placed a strip of copper foil along the bottom of the panel, so there would be something to solder to. We might have used lead came but the came we had in stock didn't match the original lead.

18. I foiled the bottom three beveled pieces with copper foil, getting ready for soldering the panel.

19. I cut a piece of zinc to fit the panel and nailed it in place, making sure that the panel still fit inside the penciled in pattern.

20. I carefully soldered the joints at the bottom of the panel, using care to only heat the lead that was being attached just enough to solder to, trying to avoid melting the came.

21. When the solder lines were complete, they were a little too shiny to match the original window, so I cleaned it with an ammonia based cleaner which darkened it and then added a dilute black patina to knock the color down.

22. After polishing and waxing the window, it matched the original pretty well.

23. When we went back to the home for the install, my wife, Jeanne wiped the window down for a final cleaning to get rid of any dust and smudges.

24. I removed the molding that was in temporarily and a couple of nails from the frame work. Then I followed Jeanne's example and polished the inside of the tempered glass to get rid of any dust that might have collected.

25. I used my putty knife as a lever to center the window in the opening.

26. Then I applied a small bead of silicone caulk around the entire framework.

27. I gently tapped the wood back in place.

28. Then, since I wasn't going to nail the trim back in place, I forced a stick in the opening between the molding so that they'd be held tightly while the silicon dried. The silicon will form a good enough bond to hold both the window and the molding in place.

Just a few simple steps later, we had the job done with very satisfactory results.

David Gomm started building stained glass windows professionally back in 1983 and has become an expert at many aspects of stained glass building, design and repair. He writes a monthly newsletter at http://www.betterstainedglass.com

He also has a website with many other articles at http://www.gommstudios.com

These articles may be distributed freely on your website and in your ezines, as long as the entire article, copyright notice, links and this resource box are unchanged, or if using a portion of the article, it points back to one of our pages where the entire article resides. Copyright © David Gomm All Rights Reserved.

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Spruce Up Your House With Vinyl Window Shutters

2008-05-11T07:07:00.000-07:00

Vinyl Window Shutters can give your home a brand new look. You can change the look of your home in a variety of ways: new paint, landscaping, or decorative accessories. Adding window shutters to your home is one of the easiest ways to update the look of your home.

Shutters have been around for centuries and for good reason: they add style and sometimes protection to a home. People have used shutters to add privacy, to protect the home from storms, and to help control the amount of light that enters the home. Shutters can also be purely decorative.

Vinyl window shutters come in many different styles and colors. You can choose from louvered, board and batten, raised panel, and combinations of louvered/raised panel shutters. Board and batten shutters have the most traditional look, but the choice of style depends on what you like and what will look good on your home. Choose a color that compliments the color of your home. If you don't see a color you like, buy primed vinyl window shutters and paint them the color you want.

Vinyl shutters have a number of advantages for home owners. They are easy to clean. You can simply spray them off or wash them down with soapy water. Vinyl is also a cost-effective material that can allow you to buy more shutters or to put the money into other projects. Because they are lightweight, vinyl shutters are easy to install and can be put by any window. In minutes, you can have them up on your house. Finally, vinyl is stain resistant and won't rot or crack like wood will in the elements.

While vinyl window shutters offer a great deal of versatility, they do have some drawbacks in comparison to wood shutters that you should be aware of. One of the biggest drawbacks is that up close, vinyl shutters can appear plastic and cheap. Although they generally look fine from five or six feet away, some people don't like the appearance up close.

If you are looking for shutters for your home, you may want to visit a store that carries a variety of shutter styles and materials. This way you can compare the vinyl with other materials like wood or aluminum and see which one you like best. You'll also want to consider how the various styles and materials will look on your home.

Vinyl window shutters can be a great option to update the look of your home without breaking the bank. You can buy shutters that compliment the color of your home and add style. Consider the different styles available and choose the one that works for you.

It's easy to dress up your home with vinyl window shutters. Learn which vinyl shutters you should consider at Window Treatment Online.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Heather_Madison

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Curtains Give You Freedom of Choice in Decorating

2008-05-09T10:30:00.001-07:00

You can completely change the look of a room through the choice of the right curtains. In the past, curtains served very practical purposes, such as blocking the cold are from coming into a room and maintaining the heat, protecting furniture by keeping out the sunlight, and adding privacy to a room. Today, in addition performing these tasks, curtains must also add a decorative note to a room. Sometimes, curtains have been used by decorators to be the focal point of a room. New materials and technology have allowed decorators to become very imaginative when it comes to curtains.

Let's make the distinction between curtains and drapes. What we usually call drapes are longer window treatments, usually to the floor, of a heavy material and even sometimes lined with another material. They are considered a more formal look and drapes are usually suspended from a traverse rod that is opened and closed by a cord, very much like the stage curtain that they resemble. Curtains, on the other hand, are considered less formal and are of a lighter fabric and are hung by hooks or rings and are opened and closed very simply by just tugging on them. Many times, curtains are just pulled back by curtain tie backs are are not closed at all. They just form a frame around the window, and shades or blinds are used to serve the purposes of room darkening or privacy.

There are a number of types of curtains, but there are three main types used: the panel curtain, the café curtain and the tiered curtain. Panel curtains are comprised simply of lengths of fabric, hemmed at top and bottom. They are hung from a rod with hooks or rings, and draped rather casually. The rooms you will usually find panel curtains in are the bedroom and dining room. They also are used in conjunction with window shades or venetian blinds. Café curtains are hung at the center of a window, so that the upper part of the window is exposed to the sunlight. They may be tied back, or hung straight down, and they are usually the type of window you will find in the kitchen or a casual dining area. The third most popular type of curtain are tiered curtains. Tiered curtains are made of multiple panels that hang over lower panels. These types of curtains afford the most privacy and light-blocking properties of all curtains outside of drapes. It is important to block the sunlight from a room, especially if it has good furniture in it because if furniture and rugs are exposed to the ultraviolet rays of sunlight, they will become faded and worn looking.

Today, there are so many options for homeowners to choose among when decorating windows and when you consider the various styles, the number of colors and the quality of fabrics, there is no end to the ways a homeowner can decorate.

The technical writer Kenneth Morris is passionate about issues corresponding to window coverings. You might see his articles on curtains and blinds over at his site and various other sources for window coverings knowledge.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ken_T._Morris

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Removing Old Aluminum Windows

2008-05-09T10:29:00.000-07:00

This week we are going to talk about the process of actually removing your aluminum windows in preparation for installing vinyl replacement windows. Let's start with a horizontal sliding window, which is pretty common nationwide. There is going to be a sliding panel and a stationary panel. You want to remove the slider first. All you do is slide the panel open, grab the sides of the panel with your hands,lift up and swing out. Under ideal circumstances, it would be that easy. However, there are small obstacles that can prevent you from lifting out the panel.

Many sliding windows have rollers on the top as well as the bottom. The top rollers don't actually do anything, they are there more as spares to replace the bottom rollers when they wear out. But many times the window installer will adjust these top rollers to prevent anyone from lifting out the panel. If this is the case with your windows, there will be a screw at the top of each side rail. If you loosen these screws, then lift up on the panel, it should come out. Another obstacle involves a little piece of rubber that the manufacturer places in the top track. This rubber piece has the same effect as adjusting the top rollers. It prevents you from lifting out the panel because it's wedged between the top of the window panel and the top of the upper track. If you can see that the window panel isn't lifting all the way up in the top track, and the top rollers are not the reason, then you have to dig out that rubber piece. It's usually at the point in the center, where the sliding panel and fixed panel overlap when the window is closed. Reach in there with a long, thin screwdriver, and try to pry it out.

Once you have the slider out, take out the screen. You can just pull it out. No need to be gentle since you're throwing it away anyway. The last step is the fixed panel removal. There are a few different applications here. All of them will have a center vertical bar. It's usually there to accept the locking mechanism on the slider, but not always. Look for screws holding this center bar in place. They will either be on the outside top and bottom, or you might find them on the side channel where the screen would go. Check the top and bottom corners.

Assuming you found the screws and removed them, you now need to take the center bar off. Take a screw driver and a hammer and tap the center bar at the very bottom. Tap it off the fixed panel frame. Now, pull the fixed panel away from the side where it rests in the side channel. What you are trying to do is slide the fixed panel open the same way that you did the sliding panel. Then, you can lift the fixed panel up and out. Sometimes, the fixed panel won't want to slide open because it has gotten stuck in the side track. You can put a screw driver into the side channel and pry the fixed panel away from the side. It doesn't matter if you bend the frame that's still attached to the house, because we are going to hide all of that anyway.

Now, let's go back to the vertical center bar and assume you didn't find any screws to remove it. That means the fixed piece of glass doesn't have a frame around it. It's glazed in with either silicone, caulk, or double foam tape. You have to take out the glass, then cut the center bar out using a reciprocating saw. Usually, there will be "stops" on the outside to help keep the fixed piece of glass in place. There will be 4 of them, one on top, bottom, and each side. You should be able to just pry them out with a screw driver. Then, you can go inside and cut away the adhesive holding the glass in the frame. Use a utility knife and cut between the glass and frame. Wear gloves, and be careful not to put your hand through the glass. Put a sheet or tarp outside and let the glass fall into it. You could also have a helper stand on a ladder above the glass and try grabbing the top edge as you cut it away from the frame. Have your helper also wear gloves. The reason for the ladder is that you want to be above the glass in case it has a little crack that you can't see. As soon as you grab the glass, the crack will run across to the opposite edge, and suddenly you will find yourself trying to hold multiple pieces of glass at the same time. Being on the ladder, if the glass "runs", you let go. After the glass is out, cut the bottom portion of the center bar flush with the bottom track. Then, you can wiggle the bar back and forth to break the top screw free. You can apply this removal process to picture windows that have no sliding panel. Just treat it like you did the fixed portion, without having to remove a center bar.

Next week we will talk about the installation differences between a vinyl replacement frame and a vinyl retrofit frame.

John Rocco has been installing replacement windows since 1978. To learn more, visit How To Install Windows

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Rocco

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Bay Window Treatment Ideas

2008-05-08T09:51:00.002-07:00

Bay windows make a charming addition to any home. These three window-design forms, with their three-dimensional configuration, can also be a challenge to design. If you have bay windows at your house, you may be in need of bay window treatment ideas to make your bay windows appear more attractive.

Because of their unique configuration, it can be difficult to find curtain rods and headings for drapes to cover and adorn bay windows. You may need to buy three different sets of poles and rods to cover all three windows.

If you cannot afford heavy drapes, use simple blinds or sheer curtains to mute incoming light. If you like heavy curtains, however, invest in simple designs, since the intrinsic complexity of bay windows can make further embellishment appear overbearing.

If you want, you can have stained glass in part of your bay window to add color to incoming light. If stained glass is too expensive for your budget, you can also hang a set of reflective chimes, or stained glass chimes in the middle window.

The idea is to make your bay window appear attractive on the outside, while people on the inside find delight in the play of colored lights that your stained glass can bring in.

You can also opt to add flowering plants to the outside of your bay window, if it is on the ground floor of your house, or if you can attach a ledge on which to place plants. With plants and colored chimes, you might not even have to add heavy and expensive drapes.

Be adventurous and creative, but don't go overboard: a bay window on its own is quite attractive, so you may simply be gilding a lily if you add velvet and roses and stained glass into one elaborate, but overdone heap.

To learn more window treatment ideas, visit http://www.windowtreatmentideas101.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tim_Lee

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Lace Curtains, Valances, Tiers and Panels – Charming Window Coverings To Mix and Match

2008-05-08T09:51:00.001-07:00

LACE CURTAINS - THE COMPONENT PARTS

Designing Lace Curtain window coverings can be very confusing. Let's try to simplify the challenge by starting with the very basics. Most major Lace Curtain suppliers offer many different pieces to be used in combinations to arrive at completely different looks. The pieces have various names including One Piece Swags, Fan Swags, Swag Pairs, Valances, Tiers and Panels. They are woven into delicate lace patterns or stunningly bold Macrame ring lace. Depending how you use them, your window treatment can be formal or casual, simple or ornate. Whatever combination you use can greatly influence your over-all design goals.

USE YOUR IMAGINATION TO CREATE YOUR VERY OWN LOOK

The simplest design would be to use a Lace Valance and a Lace Tier together as in the picture shown here. This picture uses a Macrame Ring Lace, however, any Lace Valance and Tier can be used for the same effect. This design is shown on tension rods inside the window casing. The treatment also can be used where both Valance and Tier are mounted on rods that are attached to the wall outside of the window frame. Another attractive style would be to mount the Valance on an outside mount rod and the Tier on a tension rod inside the jamb. In yet a different version you could mount the Valance on an outside mount rod and use a full length Lace Panel or pair of Panels on a rod under the Valance rod. One of these options may be just what you want but, hold on, we are just getting started.

You may want a more formal treatment as in the picture shown here. It consists of a Swag Pair with a Valance in between and a full length Panel underneath. As another option, in a narrower window, you could eliminate the in between Valance and just use the Swag Pair or a One Piece Swag. If you use two Panels you could tie them back to each side for a totally different style. Also, a Priscilla look could be created by using a second Panel underneath the first Panel and tying them back to opposite sides.

There is another option that uses a little of all of the above ideas but is more informal and could be used in a den, dinette or kitchen area. It consists of a Swag Pair with or without a Valance in between and a shorter Tier in the window instead of a full length Panel.

As you can see, Lace Curtains can be highly personalized to create the very look that makes your home warm and inviting We are not finished yet. Let's think even more outside of the box. What if you have a curved top window. That's easy. Just find a solid metal rod and bend it to the same contour as your window frame and use the same designs we just discussed. How about another idea. If you have two corner windows you have the option of treating them as one window or two windows. You can mount separate curtains on each window or you can make the two windows look like one giving the effect of a much larger window. You would use one of the Swag Pair pieces on each window and Tiers below on each window. The same thing can be accomplished on two side by side windows on a flat wall.

THE MANY NOT SO MYSTERIOUS WAYS TO CREATE WINDOW COVERING BEAUTY IN YOUR HOME

Hopefully with this new knowledge you will really enjoy creating your very own professional looking décor by stretching your imagination. The above pictures of window treatments are just a start. You can probably think of many additional attractive ways to arrive at your own person choices of Lace Curtains. In fact, you could even vary the treatments by purchasing lace yardage and sewing your own version of a window treatment. Best of luck with your newly discovered design freedom.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Al Nelson will be happy to answer any questions you may have about lace curtain design PLUS you can review these and even more design tips when you visit his web site, Olde Worlde Lace

The author brings to this article 30 years of experience in the interior design field including custom window decorating design, fabrication and installation. His specialties involve all types of window décor as in custom made draperies, ready made lace curtains and macrame ring lace as well as blinds and shades. His designs have been used in a variety of settings in many beautiful homes throughout Southern California.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Allen_Nelson

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Curtains Can Decorate Either Your Window Or Your View

2008-05-08T09:48:00.000-07:00

Curtains are materials that are hung over a window for decoration and other purposes. The main purposes are to provide privacy, block sunlight and decoration.

If the window looks onto streets or sidewalks, then curtains can be used for privacy. Translucent curtains like net curtains or sheer curtains will only block sunlight partially. These types of curtains do not provide any privacy, especially at night. For privacy opaque curtains are better.

Curtains are also used for light control to prevent glare, for sleeping during the day, or watching TV etc. Opaque curtains are suited for light control. For partial light control sheer or net type curtains are better suited.

Curtains are also used for increasing the aesthetic appeal of a room. An elegant curtain greatly increases the aesthetics of a room and gives an opulent look. On the contrary dirty or ill matched curtains give a room a gloomy look. When the window looks onto a street it is better to give thought to the underside of the curtain as the curtain can be seen from outside and will dictate the appearance of the house.

Types of Curtains.

There are lots of varieties of curtains available in the market today. Few of them are:

Curtain Valance. These have deep frill fabrics framing the window and usually the curtain rod is hidden. They generally have pleated heading. The pleated headings can be decorated using braid, ribbons, tassels and trimmings.

Cascade Curtains. Cascaded curtains consist of two or more curtains hung over the window. The tiers are hung from transoms.

Shirred curtains. These types of curtains have the fabric threaded through curtain rods at the top and bottom.

Tie back curtains. These curtains are gathered at the sides of the window and decoratively tied back at the lower part of the curtain with a sleeve or cord.

Café curtains. These are designed to cover only half of the window and are stationary. They are usually used in kitchens and bathrooms for privacy and are made form scalloped headings.

Pelmets. Pelmets are structures mounted above the windows on which the curtain rod is fixed.

The choice of curtains depends on the purpose for which the curtains are being installed. Color, fabric and style of curtain give the room a formal or informal appearance. There are lots of decorative rods, pelmets, cordings, sleeves, beads, fringes, rings, eyelets available in the market to decorate curtains. Also a thought should be given on safety for floor length curtains when pets and children are present in the house.

Keith George always writes about valuable news & reviews. A related resource is Curtains Further information can be found at Trends & News

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Keith_George
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Bamboo Art Glass Window

2008-05-07T08:50:00.001-07:00

If you are into Asian design, you’ve no doubt considered using bamboo in your decorating. Bamboo designs are very versatile. They can be subtle for a neutral room, but can add a lot to a minimalist design. One great way to decorate with bamboo is through bamboo art glass windows. These glass creations are similar to stained glass and bring a touch of bamboo into your home through elegant, colorful glass.

Bamboo stained glass art designs are available in many sizes. Smaller window hangings are very affordable, and add a lot to a room. Bamboo art glass windows are also available in larger, full-sized windows. You can have one installed above another window, or put a new window in and fill it with a bamboo stained glass panel. If you are really looking to make a statement, consider a large beautiful skylight with a bamboo design built right in.

Bamboo art glass windows work well in any room. If you have a simple bedroom and want to bring some color into it without being gaudy, bamboo stained glass is the perfect choice. The simple designs and neutral colors won’t over-power a minimalist spa-like bathroom and can make it feel even more serene. These also work well in living rooms and kitchens. No matter what kind of space you have, a bamboo art glass window will bring more life to it right away.

Bamboo art glass windows are easy to install. If you choose a window hanging design, you can just quickly put it up yourself. More involved designs, however, will most likely require professional installation. Whether you are replacing an entire window, putting a new window where there previously wasn’t one, or enhancing an existing window through borders or picture window panels, a professional stained glass contractor in your area is the best choice if you want top-notch results.

Spun glass is a wonderful art form and a great way to decorate your home. If you are looking for design tips, spun glass decoration, and information on art glass supplies and antique stained glass or spun glass decor and gifts we can help by providing info, FAQs and reviews. Spun glass figurines also make great gifts. A new piece of spun glass art makes an excellent wedding gift. Or hand down tradition with a gift of antique spun glass for a college graduation, a monumental birthday, or some other special occasion. If you are interested in art glass supplies we have a lot of information on getting started in a glass art.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sarah_Freeland
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Say Goodbye to The Wooden Window Shutter

2008-05-07T08:49:00.000-07:00

A discussion of the wooden window shutter plus definitions and descriptions of the many kind of inexpensive and low maintenance shutters on the market.

The traditional window shutter is usually made of wood, needs a lot of maintenance and looks like it is right out of an episode of the Brady Bunch. These window shutters that have been in existence since Colonial times are a bit of an anachronism. Most people simply never shut them yet still the hinges need to be oiled and shined.

It might be time to get rid of the anachronistic wooden shutters on your home and go with something more modern such an aluminum window shutter that resists the elements and never closes. This will definitely cut down on your replacement and maintenance costs for keeping the exterior of your home looking sharp!

Here is a run down of the different types of decorate window shutter that are offered by manufacturers today.

Vinyl window shutter - These easy to clean, affordable shuttles last about forty years! They give your house a traditional look without the traditional expense of replacing them frequently. They weigh next to nothing and look like the real thing. They are available in all of the traditional louvered, board and batten and raised panel styles. Even better they come primed and ready to paint in the color of your choice.

Composite window shutter - These shutters are like a thick particleboard that is made from a composite of weather and rot-resistant materials. They are made from molds that offer all kinds of styles including the louvered, board and batten and raised panel window shutter style. You can also find these types of shutters in a cupboard style (sometimes called the Bahama style) that is hinged at the top so you can open and close them just like the old fashioned wooden shutter.

Fiberglass Shutters - This type of window shutter is the most expensive but they do last about twenty years. They are also molded and offered in a variety of designs including the Bahama, louvered, board and battened and raised panel window shutter styles. The fiberglass window shutter is also stronger and more secure than other types and can be used to protect your windows during hurricanes and storms. Most manufacturers offer these in scores of colors and textures that mimic the look of the real thing. You can also buy these primed and paint them yourself to match your house's exterior design scheme.

Aluminum Shutters. The aluminum wood shutter is also offered in a variety of styles including the faux colonial louvered style and the Bahama style. These strong shutters are great protection for your windows, both in terms of an intruder and also against a hurricane. They come in about a thousand textures and colors. However the powder coated finish looks a little less authentic than other types of shutters and many companies also only offer a warranty of about three years on aluminum shutters.

Of course the crème de la crème will always be the traditional wood shutters, but unfortunately they are not as storm proof as the fiberglass or aluminum window shutter and the costs of protecting them from the elements are relatively sky high compare to other types.

Rene Knops helps you get a clear view for choosing beautiful window blinds, shutters or window treatment at lowest prices. for Details visit: window shutter.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rene_Knops
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Creating An Image Hot Spot With Dreamweaver 8

2008-05-07T08:47:00.000-07:00

An image hot spot allows you to create a link from an area of an image to some other portion of the Web site. Maps often use image hot spots to pull up additional information about locations. Some designers use hot spots to create a visually dynamic site map, or to supply additional information about some element of a photograph.

To create a hot spot, select an image in a Dreamweaver page. Open the Properties panel. Within the panel, you'll find an area labeled "Map" that shows three shapes - a rectangle, an oval and a polygon. You'll also see a blank text box.

Type a name for the image map into the text box. Naming your map is not essential to the process. Dreamweaver will create a default name based on the file name if you do not name your map.

Select a basic shape for the area of the image map and place it on the image. You'll need to adjust the map to fit your selected image appropriately. To do this, click the arrow button next to the map shapes in the Properties panel. The hot spot shape you've created will become editable and movable. Make all of the necessary resizing, and change the shape to fit the image as precisely as you need it to. Click the shape when you are finished to lock it in place.

You can use Dreamweaver to make several different hot spots on one image or one page. Follow the procedure above to create as many hot spots as you need.

While still in the Properties Panel, add a URL that the hot spot will link to. You can also add alt text and a target window here, if desired. Once you have completed your image map, you may edit it by selecting the hot spot in Design view. Use the Properties panel to create a new image map or alter the existing map.

Claire Blinman is the training manager at Computer Training Solutions, a training centre with centres in Bristol, Bracknell and Solihull. Computer Training Solutions offer Dreamweaver training courses or call 0800 019 6882

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Claire_Blinman
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Room Air Conditioners

2008-05-06T06:23:00.001-07:00

Room air conditioners are ideal for any kind of room and are the most sought-after type of air conditioners in the industry. They pamper you with cool, crisp and clean air and make your living space a more comfortable one to live in.

They come in different types to serve everyone's purposes. You have window models and wall mount models. Window models include the ordinary double-hung model and casement window models. Double-hung models can be fit in wider window spaces. Casement window models are for narrower spaces. You may have to remove the window panel during installation. Window models can be changed from place to place, as they are easy to install. Wall mount models are enclosed in the wall in sleeves or holes made in the wall. They are more of permanent fixtures, so a lot of time and effort goes into the installation. They come with lots of features like noise-free functioning capacity, timers, filters, dehumidifying capacity, adjustable air-flows, remote controls, etc.

There are a few things you have to consider when purchasing a room air conditioner. The air conditioner should fit the size of the room; a smaller one for a larger room results in excessive running and a larger one for a smaller room results in excessive cooling. You can estimate the number of BTUs required to make your room cool and get a room air conditioner with that number of BTUs. If you move a lot you should go with window models, as you can just take them out of the window and move them with you.

Price has never been a hitch in the case of room air conditioners. They are available in a multitude of lower to higher price ranges. As far as these air conditioners are concerned, the more you pay, the more you get, and the less you pay, still the more you get.

Air Conditioners provides detailed information on Air Conditioners, Portable Air Conditioners, Window Air Conditioners, Room Air Conditioners and more. Air Conditioners is affiliated with Window Air Conditionar Rentals.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Eric_Morris

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Choosing Window Blinds for Your Home - Great Tips and Guide

2008-05-06T06:22:00.000-07:00

Blinds have come a long was from being office mainstays. Not only can you get slatted, roman and roller blinds in a stunning array of fabrics, materials such as wood, leather, and even plastic and viscose for durability are available as well to complement your home decor. In fact, there are even shades to fit oddly-shaped windows, by adapting to weird angles, arches and circle, with style to boot.

Choosing the right window covering can be baffling with the vast choices available. Try not to choose a style simply based on its decorative effect alone. As part of a guide to window blinds, here are some questions to mull over before you place your order:

• What are your needs for privacy?
• Which direction does your window face?
• What are your needs for light control?
• How do your windows open and how often do you open them?
• What’s your budget?

Here’s a quick guide on some popular available styles:

• Panel please – panel blinds work great in interiors with a contemporary theme, especially as floor-to-ceiling treatments because they’re so clean-cut. They’re also great for showcasing striking prints and bold designs as they sit flat against the window, which means you save money on fabric too!

• Roll up – roller blinds which disappear into a flat roll when drawn up, have the most minimalist profile. They’re popular for their low-maintenance and efficient sun shading.

• Roman – Popular in bedrooms and in rooms where you don’t want bulky folds, the roman blind’s neat, flat structure works well with a window seat.

• Good wood – Woody Venetian blinds add warmth with their pleasing wood grain and natural wood color. Wood blinds also complement tropical, classical, rustic and even contemporary settings. They’re easy to clean, requiring just a simple wipe-down.

Before purchasing the blinds, you’d need to measure the size of the window. So if you want the blind to hang inside the window recess, measure its frame on all sides, as most windows are not perfect squares. If you want the blind to hang over the window, leave about 2 inches for overhang. Allow for shrinkage after washing or dry cleaning.

Click here for more information about window blinds

Lester Fong

http://www.unique-home-decor-ideas.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lester_Fong

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Choosing The Best Window Blinds For Your Needs

2008-05-06T06:20:00.000-07:00

Window blinds come in such a vast array of styles, colors, materials, fabrics, and sizes; it is almost too much to think about! They come ready to hang in the store, custom made to order, and ready to hang with your own alterations. They also come in a variety of slat sizes from mini to 2 inches wide.

The most popular style these days, due to the variety of colors available, price, and ease of use, is the mini blind. Typically they are made of a plastic material, but can be found in metal as well. Yes, they are easy to hang and use and cleaning is a breeze, but from a decorators point of view, there are much better window blind choices that cost only a little more.

You have to consider your room - size, decor, and architectural style - in order to choose the best window blinds for your room or house. For instance, if you want a room where you could just relax and re-energize, you would probably want to look at wooden blinds with a larger slat. These window blinds will add a special touch to the room, one of warmth and rich natural beauty. Cleaning of real wood will limit your choices, as dusting is the only recommended method.

If you really cannot afford real wood blinds, consider faux wood window blinds. They have the look and feel of real wood, but are less expensive and will allow you to create a popular, clean, contemporary look. These blinds will never warp making them durable and perfect for high humidity areas. These can be cleaned with a damp cloth or simply dusted.

If you like that Zen-like feel to your room? Then panel track blinds are for you! They are modern and contemporary and will relax you with their clean simple lines. They allow you to create that Zen-like feel in your special place; that feeling of peace and harmony you crave after a busy stressful day. They are available in warm inviting colors to set the mood in your room, while still coordinating with your room colors and décor. These sheer window blinds come in a variety of "openness" to give you just the desired amount of sun and light while still providing you with privacy and a beautiful view. Periodic cleaning with a feather duster or vacuum with brush is recommended and they are easily removed for dry cleaning.

Elie Cole lives works in Montreal, Canada. He is the creator of FabWindowCoverings.com where he brings information about window shutters, blinds and shades to the visitors.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Elie_Cole

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Save With Thermal Window Treatments

2008-05-05T06:32:00.001-07:00

With the rising cost of energy, now would be a great time to invest in some thermal window treatments. Thermal window treatments help to prevent cold air from getting inside your home in the winter and help keep the sun out of your home during the summer months. This will help cut energy cost year round. It is important to know the makeup of these treatments before you make a purchase. We will discuss a few important factors that should help you make your decision.

Thermal drapes, sometimes called insulated curtains, stand out considerably from a regular panel. While thermal panels can be made of any fabric, one of the main differences is the heavier weight of the thermal panel. Thermals should be lined with a thick rubbery lining. This lining should be waterproof which will protect the panels from the condensation that will occur from the cold air on the windows. It will also prevent the sun from coming through in the summer months. It should also have a thick "bump" interlining in between the lining and the fabric. The results will be thick weather repellent draperies.

Another option with thermal window treatments are insulated roman shades. These are a great option if you want to keep the look of sleek draperies and still get the benefits of thermal window treatments. Thermal roman shades are constructed in a similar manner. They will also contain the rubber backed lining. Some may also be available with a flannel interlining. For a perfect snug fit, consider custom roman shades. By getting the roman shades custom made to your window size, you will ensure no cold air leaking through the sides of the shades.

Now more than ever, there are more options available. Although thermal window treatments can be somewhat heavy, they are becoming available in many stylish fabrics such as silk, colorful cottons, heavy weight linen, contemporary jacquards, and classic chenille prints. The great savings on energy is just one of the great benefits from investing in these treatments.

http://www.dreacustomdesigns.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Andrea_Julien

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Window Curtains are a Quick and Easy Way to Break up a Dull Room's Decor - Discover How!

2008-05-05T06:31:00.000-07:00

Window curtains come in very stylish designs and all your great curtain window treatments go beyond just a formal pleated drapery that you would use in the living room or a cotton frill tieback that might be used for the bathroom and kitchen window curtains. When researching your new curtains and draperies you will find that manufacturers offer a large variety of brilliant colors and curtain styles that will create a beautiful new look and feel for any rooms decor. By combining different adaptations with traditional window treatments you will be able to add that extra personal touch to your curtain window covering. Another option that you may consider is to blend ready-made window curtains with some custom curtains. The draperies usually are made with a formal lined panel and are heavier than the curtains. Being an unlined window covering, curtains are a less formal treatment, the style and design of the room will help you make your decision on which window treatment will work best for light control and your privacy. The first thing to consider would be what style of heading you would want to use. A curtain heading is the top part of your window covering and can be made in several different ways so that it will work with either at Rod or poll style. If you use a window valance and lay it across the heading you will give the curtain treatment a tightly layered effect making this accent a beautiful touch for the overall window curtain look.

Finding a curtain treatment fabric

The weight of your curtains fabric will give you an idea of how you are going to use it. Heavier cloths usually work well with the window heading and valance that are more a structured type design. Because of the weight of the window curtain you will create a beautiful smooth regular fold. Fabrics that are lighter are less formal and better looking with the use of a gathered heading or with the shirred you may even use some simple ties or tab tops. Something that you should consider is the care in the cleaning of the window curtains fabric. Different fabrics require different care - like silk and satin will require you to have them dry cleaned. Something else you should think of is the cotton types of cloth and know they will shrink when you wash them. The best thing to do is a test clean by using a sample of the fabric which you will be able to wash and check the color fast and weave afterward. Window curtain fabrics are the best way to add colors and patterns to any rooms decor. Motifs that are large are best used flat but a pattern that will trail or branches works best when it's folded or gathered. Texture is one thing that is usually overlooked as a design feature of window curtains. Textures that are obvious would be brocade or even damask which would give you a more luxurious and warm treatment feeling.

Curtain window treatment ideas

If you're looking for more of a breezy feel then you should look at window shears or any open weave window covering. Fabrics that are dark and heavy will be an enclosed warm feel which will give you a cozy and intimate room. Curtain window fabrics that are semi- translucent are usually not formal and give you an airy feeling. An idea that you could try would be to change the window curtains for the season, like the heavier treatments can be replaced with sheer curtains that are lighter for the summertime. By coordinating your curtain window treatments with some soft furnishings or matching color patterns you will create the perfect window curtain treatment for your home's décor.

Daryl Plaza is a regular contributor to http://www.windowcoveringresource.com/window-curtains.html windowcoveringresource.com a website created to help consumers find more information on their http://www.windowcoveringresource.com/curtains-articles.htmlwindow curtain ideas.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Daryl_Plaza
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Fixing A Severely Damaged Stained Glass Panel

2008-05-05T06:28:00.000-07:00

This article outlines how to fix a really severely damaged panel, so shattered that the only other choice is to rebuild the entire panel. It is an unconventional repair method, but it's a good alternative to tossing your window in the trash.

Ed Sibbet is one of the very few book designers who creates designs which can be built as drawn and has great perspective.

The Gemini Girl was the first design that I ever built. I built a second copy of it after the first was damaged in a house fire. I spent 2 or 3 months building a custom oak frame in college. So it was very painful when the panel was knocked from it's hook and shattered into many pieces. Rebuilding it was out of the question, nearly every piece was damaged. It would have been easier to build a new one rather than using traditional repair techniques.

Even the oak frame was broken, but fortunately it had only broken at the original glue joints.

So, first I had to fix the frame by gluing and clamping it.

Then I had to tap in a broken piece under her eye and adjust several broken pieces to be as flat as possible. I used a small hammer and a piece of wood to coax pieces back in place. If there had been a piece missing I would have taped a piece of paper on the back of the panel and then soaked it off with water a few days later.

I then cleaned it carefully and put new black patina on the window.

Preparation is key. I once did the same repair to a panel and accidentally glued the piece to the work bench. I now recommend covering the bench with wax paper and don't leave any gaps in the glass where the resin can run through.

Then I mixed up the epoxy based resin, I used EnviroTex Lite, a pour on high gloss finish sold at craft stores. It was important to mix it vigorously for two minutes.

Then it was poured in place. I tipped the panel to run the mixture over the whole surface. Last, I blew on it to cause the small bubbles that formed to pop by reacting to carbon dioxide in my breath. A day or two later, I came back and coated the other side of the window.

As you can see on the left and on the picture below, the cracks are still visible. But the panel is strong and clean and still looks great. So this might not be the perfect way to fix a panel, but it is great for old pieces and valuable pieces and is especially good for pieces which are viewed from a distance, like skylights and architectural glass.

Photos to go with the article are at http://www.betterstainedglass.com/
Newsletter/Archives/2006Mar-severedamage/severedamage.htm

David Gomm started building stained glass windows professionally back in 1983 and has become an expert at many aspects of stained glass building, design and repair. He writes a monthly newsletter at his better stained glass website.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Gomm
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Different Curtain Styles for Different Home Designs

2008-05-04T06:35:00.001-07:00

The basic role of curtains has shifted over the years. They are still used in part for their original purposes, privacy, insulation, soundproofing and light control. However, with the advances made in glazing technology, these functions are no longer so important and all window coverings have taken on a more decorative role.

Although the words are often used interchangeably, there is a distinct difference between curtains and drapes. Drapes tend to be more formal, floor length affairs, with a heavy lining, that can be opened and closed with a pull cord. Curtains are their less formal relatives, often made from a lighter fabric, with or without lining. They are generally suspended by hooks, rings or even tab tops from a pole, and are opened and closed by hand. While drapes are usually stand alone, curtains can be used with blinds or shades, and in this case are sometimes tied back permanently to the window edge and never closed at all.

If you are choosing curtains as part of your home design project, you should consider three basic types. Panels are the simplest and most often used, being basic panels of material, hemmed top and bottom, gathered at the top to produce soft folds, and hung by hooks or rings from a pole.

Café curtains are an alternative style, hung from the centre of the window on a wire or cord, leaving the upper part of the window exposed. As well as decoration, this style provides privacy for people sitting near the window, whilst letting in light at the same time. These can generally be found in kitchens and breakfast rooms.

Tiered curtains are the third option. These are hung in such a way that a base panel covers the bottom half of a window, and a top panel, protruding further from the wall, covers the top half and overlaps the base panel. This is a decorative feature, rather than having a practical use, although you could tie back the upper panels to let in light, while maintaining some privacy.

You should consider the most appropriate length for your curtains. Some can sit just above the window sill, giving the impression of fitting neatly into the window space. These are ideal when you have a radiator under the window, so you don’t lose all the heat up through the window behind the curtain. If you want your curtains to rest just below the window ledge, be sure your curtain pole is mounted far enough from the wall to ensure that curtain can hang freely and does not touch the window sill. Floor length curtains should finish just before the floor so they don’t drag. If they touch the floor they will become dirty very quickly and may be stood on and ripped.

Finally you should determine if you need your curtains lined or not. Lining can add considerable expense you your curtains, but it is worthwhile if you need the extra privacy, insulation or soundproofing that lined curtains can provide. You can also buy interlined curtains, with a third panel of insulation fabric between the curtain itself and the main lining. Lining can also make your curtains hang better if they are made from a lightweight material.

Being very excited about blinds and window coverings, Kenneth Morris was authoring quite a few detailed papers on the subject. His observations on blinds and curtains are published on his web publications .

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kenneth_Morris

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Have Hurricanes-Will Need Shutters

2008-05-04T06:34:00.000-07:00

If you're looking for an inexpensive way to dress up the exterior of your home, consider adding shutters (or changing the color or design, if your home already is fitted with these affordable elements).

Shutters used to have a functional purpose, rather than a decorative one. They were used to protect the fragile glass windows of the day during storms, and as an added barrier against intruders. If you live in an area prone to hurricanes, the shutters still perform the function of protecting your windows - and are made of steel or aluminum. However, in most regions shutters are used in a purely decorative fashion.

Decorative shutters are made of either wood or vinyl. The vinyl of course can be made to look like wood, but require less care - they won't warp, crack, swell, or need to be painted, and are cleaned easily with the use of a power washer.

Decorative shutters come in many designs: including raised panel, flat panel with cut out, false louver with flat panel cut out, board and batten, false louvered,flat panel, quarter-circle single and double panel.

The raised panel and flat panel shutters are self-explanatory - solid squares of vinyl or wood with no openings. A false louvered shutter gives the impression that the shutter has louvers (a series of overlapping slats whose angle can be adjusted to let in the sun or breeze). Cutouts in the design of trees, half-moons, or other shapes provide a unique appearance to the shutter. If you've got windows that have rounded tops, then you'll need quarter-circle shutters. A board and batten is a shutter made out of three separate pieces of wood, affixed to battens at top and bottom.

If you purchase your new shutters from a large home improvement store such as Menards or Home Depot, the hardware used to fasten the shutter to to the window may or may not be included. It's important to have the best quality hardware possible - nothing looks more tacky than a nice looking shutter with rust and water stains running down from the hinges.

If you'd like to accent your shutters with a more ornate design than the hinges that come with your shutters, you can always buy them separately, as well. There's as much of a range of hinge designs as there is of the shutters themselves.

Be aware that window sizes can vary from house to house, and for the shutters to give an elegant appearance they must be properly fitted to your window size. If you're going to install your shutters yourself, therefore, make sure you measure not once, not twice, but even three times! And if you have a two story house the window sizes can be different on the second floor, so bear that in mind as well.

Shutters can make your windows appear larger, and give them a finished appearance. If you're thinking of a a new look for the exterior of your home, give a thought to shutters.

Andrew Caxton is the owner and journalist of many information websites, who has written more articles and newsletters on decoration and furniture. You can find more information and resources on vinyl shutters at his website.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Andrew_Caxton

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Bali Window Blinds- Custom Window Blinds With Style and Less Effort

2008-05-04T06:32:00.000-07:00

Is your home in need of custom window blinds? Bali window blinds can help – not only as a supplier for your window covering blinds, but also as a consultant.

Bali window blinds is the best custom window blinds resource for information about selecting custom window blinds. They specialize in helping customers make smart choices for their window covering blinds. Bali window blinds can provide you with information about how to choose the right custom window blinds for your home as well as an up to date look at the latest trends, styles, and ideas to make your windows grab the attention of visitors to your home and neighbors passing by.

In addition to offering you with wonderful consultant advice, bali window blinds offers a wide selection of window covering blinds as well. Most custom window blinds only come in a very narrow selection that limits your ability to choose a particular style. But with bali window blinds, it's different.

Custom window blinds can be hard to find when you have an odd shaped window, but bali window blinds makes it an easier task. With their broad selection of custom window blinds, you are not limited to only a few choices just because your window is not standard size or shape. Click on the link to learn about all the different types of custom window blinds that bali window blinds has to offer. http://www.window-shutters-and-blinds.com/bali_window_blinds.html.

If you are looking to cover a window with custom window blinds, look to bali window blinds for help. For selecting the appropriate window blind coverings as well as finding the custom window blinds that are perfect for your window, bali window blinds will make this home decorating project easier than you can imagine.

Click on the link to learn more about bali window blinds. They come in a variety of sizes and shapes. They can be made to fit just about any window and can be purchased online. Click on the link to get all the facts and info at http://www.window-shutters-and-blinds.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Amanda_Taylor

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Decorating with Roman Shades

2008-05-03T04:37:00.001-07:00

Roman shades are a popular addition to the window blind stable. They’re a great way to make a home decorating statement. Their graceful gathers really add visual interest to any room. When they’re raised, the fabric drapes into soft, tight folds. When they’re lowered, the gentle folds relax into looser folds.

These shades can be lined to offer more insulation, and also more privacy and deflection of light. They can be used in any room in your home, from nearly any fabric. They look great as a foundation for a full window covering, as a backdrop curtains and valances. You might see them in cotton, suede and linen, among many other materials. They can be the focal point of the window covering, or they can be the background and supporting role for a bold curtain or valance. A cord that runs down the side of the shade controls the lifting and lowering. They can be raised completely to let light in and expose the entire window, or lowered to any level. The higher they’re raised, the tighter the loops of fabric get. It almost appears to be a balloon valance, when all the loops are gathered at the top of the window. It doesn’t matter how high the shade is raised, it always looks great. It never looks unfinished, or unkempt, or as if you should raise or lower it completely.

It doesn’t take much talent to make Roman shades. Magazines, books and websites can walk you through the necessary steps. A visit to a craft store couldn’t hurt, either, since they’re full of ideas. Someone at the craft store can direct you toward the best resources. Once you make one set, you’ll be unstoppable!

Once Roman shades are hung, the room takes on a completely different feel. The three dimensional curtain really draws your attention to the window. Which makes it even wiser to have a full display of window treatments. They can go with modern furnishings, or they can fit right in with a contemporary theme. They can have a casual look, or a more formal look. The material chosen makes all the difference. An ornately printed brocade would look much more formal than a light cotton. And the treatments around it can affect how it looks. A formal valance with a heavy drapery is much more formal than a light balloon valance paired with a sheer cotton panel.

Whether you choose a formal look or a casual look for your shades, windows never looked so good!

Eric Slarkowski repeatedly creates newsletters on topics like decorating and decorating. Sharing his passion in detailed publications on roman shades the author established his expertise in the field.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Eric_B._Slarkowski

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How To Uninstall Programs On Your Computer

2008-05-03T04:36:00.000-07:00

A lot of end users are still not aware that removing or uninstalling programs in their computer is not hard. And a lot of people are lazy enough to visit the internet and search on forums, or other tutorial sites, most of the time they hire technical guys to do it for them and pay those techs 50 dollars or more for uninstalling a single program. Not a good idea!

But what they don't know uninstalling a program is just clicking your mouse four to six times, it's very simple! I'll show you where to go on your Windows XP and Windows Vista operating Systems.

On Windows XP

1.) Click Start

2.) Click Control Panel

3.) Click on Add or Remove Programs

4.) A window will pop up with all the programs install on your pc, just select the program you want to uninstall.

5.) Once you selected the program you want to uninstall you'll see button(s) on the right either Change - Remove, or just Remove then just press the remove button.

On Windows Vista

1.) Click Start

2.) Look for Control and click it.

3.) You'll see the Control Panel window, but it's better to change the view in to classic view. To do that check the right pane of the window and you'll see a button Classic View, click that button.

4.) Now look for the button Programs and Features, double click that button.

5.) Select the program that you want to uninstall.

6.) Then click the Uninstall/Change button. The Uninstall/Change button can be located at the upper corner of the Programs and Feature window.

By just knowing this feature of Windows XP or Windows Vista you'll be able to delete or remove some adwares and other unknown programs on your PC that are installed as long as you are aware of it, and this will increase the percentage of securing your PC from any known threats.

Jay-R Banaag is the webmaster of http://www.knockitgood.com - which offer free downloads, tutorials, and more. He is also CompTIA A+ certified.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jay-R_Banaag

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Cool Shades And Blinds For Your Home Sweet Home - A Beginners Guide

2008-05-03T04:27:00.000-07:00

So, you are in the market for new window treatments, the catch-all phrase for almost any kind window shade or blind. Or, maybe you're in the market for new window coverings, which implies the latter plus drapes and curtains. Still confused? Stay with me. This article is intended to give you a basic primer on the words and qualities of the major choices available to consumers these days within the window blinds and shades consumer market.

The good news for those in the market for new window shades, blinds or curtains is that there is a plethora of choices these days. You can fulfill just about any decorating desire you have. The bad news is there is a plethora of choices, enough to give you a headache and send you running for an over-priced decorator.

The wrong shades or blinds can make a room look terrible, or at best terribly average. The right ones will compliment your décor and really make a room look beautiful. There are other considerations though, there's price, energy efficiency, opacity (see-though), even durability. It is my belief that once armed with a little information you can skip the costly decorator and choose the right window blinds or shades that will work within your budget as well as compliment your room or home.

First things first, here are the major types of window blinds: mini blinds, vertical blinds, panel track blinds (also called sliding window panels), shutters (also called plantation shutters), wood blinds and faux wood blinds. And, here are the major types of window shades: cellular or honeycomb shades, woven wood or bamboo shades, roman shades, roller shades, solar shades and pleated shades. Basically anything with a slat or louver (shutters) is considered a blind, whereas, window shades have a continuous length of fabric or other material and can be rolled up. Lastly there are drapes, also called drapery panels or curtains, no further explanation is required.

On the lower end of the price spectrum there are mini blinds and vertical blinds. These are the ubiquitous choice for millions of homes across the world. They work well, look decent and are relatively affordable, especially if you buy vinyl. For more durability consider aluminum mini blinds. If you are interested in vertical blinds and want more insulation, consider cellular vertical blinds.

Continuing on the point about insulation, cellular shades, also called honeycomb shades are designed to act as an insulator for windows. Their honeycomb fabric structure creates air pockets like many other types of insulation. Cellular shades come with single, double or triple cells, depending on how much insulation you want. The price obviously increases with more cells but it is worth looking into because the long-term cost savings are significant.

Pleated shades look almost identical to cellular shades but simply lack the honeycomb structure and therefore most of the insulating properties. They are therefore less expensive then cellular.

Wood blinds are similar to mini blinds with three main differences: they generally have larger slat sizes and are made from wood, usually basswood, as opposed to aluminum or vinyl and, they are more generally more expensive then regular mini blinds

Faux wood blinds are made from either PVC plastic or are a wood composite. They look almost identical to regular wood blinds but are less expensive and will not warp, crack or fade an important detail for hot and humid areas like kitchens and bathrooms.

Plantation shutters come in both wood and faux wood and have louvers, as opposed to smaller slats. These are the classic shutters you see in the old homes of the south, thus the name, plantation. They tend to be on the high-end of the price spectrum but could very well be one of the nicest types of window treatments. They can actually add more value to your home.

Woven wood shades and bamboo shades are a type of roller shade generally made from natural materials like bamboo, grasses, wood or weaves. Roman shades are similar to woven wood shades but come in fabrics like denim or silk and can either roll-up or fold-up via pleats. Both options are in the mid-price range depending on materials and options.

Roller shades are usually fabric and come in different levels of opacity from sheer to blackout. They are simple to use and generally affordable. Solar shades, also known as solar screens are kind of like window tinting for home windows, except that they roll-up. They're great for windows with views. They filter light in greater or lesser degrees while still allowing see-through. They block harmful UV rays as well as heat gain.

Sheer shades are kind of a hybrid between a shade and a blind. They come in horizontal and vertical configurations. They can roll-up like a shade of you can close the blind portion just like you would on a mini blind or vertical blind. They feature two sheer fabric facings over soft fabric vanes - imagine the functionality of a blind within a roller shade. Sheer shades offer a lot of versatility and are in the mid-to-high price range of roller shades.

Lastly there are panel track blinds. They are much like vertical blinds only with larger panels or vanes which are usually fabric, woven wood or a solar screen material. They operate on a wheeled track system. The panels range in width from approximately 48" to 192" and in lengths to fit most windows and sliding doors. Panel track blinds can also act as a cool room divider. Panel tracks are more expensive the regular vertical blinds but certainly are more unique

So there you have it, a basic primer to window blinds, shades and shutters. Hope it helps. - David Brooks

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dave_Sean_Brooks

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Different Styles Of Window Coverings Add Drama To Your Home

2008-05-02T07:12:00.001-07:00

Curtains are a beautiful, elegant part of any home. They are one of those small, warm touches necessary to transform a house from someplace where you simply stay, to a place where you feel at home. When looking for a window curtain design for your home, you want to make sure you find the right one to give your place the proper atmosphere of warmth and comfort. Here are a few tips regarding the components of various curtain designs, and some ideas to help you decide on a Look for your curtains.

Curtain Rods - regarding curtain rods, some decorative ideas include using brass designs at the ends of the rod, or even exotic carvings. Also, curtain rods aren't just a matter of picking something to hang your curtains from. You can actually buy matched sets of curtain rods that will allow you to layer multiple curtains in tiers, giving you more creative options when it comes to your design.

Curtain Ties - curtain ties hold back the curtains from the window, allowing sunlight in. More than this, however, the PLACEMENT of a tie can be itself a decorative touch. Some people for example split the curtain in the middle of the window and use ties to hold the curtains at the edges of the window, essentially framing it.

Others use a single tie and a single piece of fabric, tying the curtain to one side, giving the window a unique look that can be likened to a woman wearing a single-strap dress. The height of the ties also allows some control over the pattern of the curtain. While usually placed in the middle of the height of the window, ties can be placed higher up the curtain to allow the fabric to billow out, or can be placed lower down to give the curtain a more fluffy effect.

Curtain Fabric - The actual fabrics used in the curtain are important, obviously. The choices to explore are entirely to your taste. You can choose from a wide variety of cloths, from warm, down to earth choices like cotton, to the more elegant options of silk, satin, and lace. The color and design patterns on the fabric are likewise another area to let your creativity take free rein.

Some people for example prefer solid earth colors, while others prefer brighter ones on their curtains. Solid colors aside, floral print curtains enjoy a lot of popularity as well. Taking into account the additional layering options provided by using multiple curtain rods and ties, it's also possible to mix and match different fabrics and different colors to further give your home's window curtains a unique appeal.

The above three are the basic, simple components of any window curtain set. Aside from them, the cut of the cloth and the manner in which it falls are also factors to take into account when looking for a window design. Here are a few of the more popular window design types that you can choose from that will be readily available from most curtain manufacturers:

Valance - a valance is not a curtain per se, but rather is a short drapery lain across the top of the window. It accents the curtain across the supporting rod, and adds a nice, neat little layering effect.

Swag - swag curtains are designed with a reverse V-shaped cut across the bottom. This means that the window itself is displayed between the 2 sides of the V, which themselves frame the window beautifully.

Panel Curtain - this is the classic type of curtain composed of a flat, square piece of cloth that hangs down from the curtain rod.

Ruffle - ruffle curtains are designs that have a vertical rippling effect, making the window curtain look like it's flowing instead of looking like just a piece of hanging cloth.

Sheer - Sheer curtains are made from semi-transparent material, and are popular because they let sunlight in easily and have an ethereal and relaxing quality about their appearance.

Scarf Curtains - this design is similar to a Valence in that it's main feature is a piece of fabric supported across the rod to accentuate the main curtain near the top. But where a valence is generally a square piece of additional paneling, a scarf curtain's accent is tied tightly upwards at the ends of the curtain rod, allowing only the central part of the scarf to cascade downwards.

The designs given above are not mutually exclusive to each other; rather, they themselves can be mix and matched by a creative mind to make even more elaborate designs. For example, you can go with a Ruffled Panel Curtain made of Sheer Fabric, or a Swag Curtain with a Scarf to accentuate it. These are just a few samples of the things you can do.

Lee Dobbins writes for http://curtains.home-webzone.com where you can learn more about different styles of curtains and choosing the right type for your room.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lee_Dobbins

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Everything You Wanted to Know About Window Treatments (But Were Too Confused to Ask)

2008-05-02T07:11:00.000-07:00

If you've ever started picking out window treatments for your home, you know there's a lot of terminology out there: blinds, shades, shutters, swags. But what does it all mean? And how do all these things get you the window treatments of your dreams?

Help is here. In this article, you will find a quick guide to help you get started with some of the key terminology used in the window treatment industry, along with how each term plays a role in the style and look of your home.

Window treatments: The Hard and Soft of It
Window treatments are often classified as "hard treatments" or "soft treatments". Hard treatments generally refer to mini-blinds, vertical blinds, horizontal blinds, cellular shades, wood blinds, roller shades, and shutters. Soft treatments tend to refer to window treatments that are "softer" to the touch and the eye, with more of a focus on the fabric, like draperies, curtains, and valances. However, the rules for each are not hard and fast and some window treatments may fall somewhere in between.

Blinds
Blinds are window treatments that have adjustable slats, which can be angled open or closed to control the amount of view-through. These slats can be made from wood, faux wood, fabric, plastic, metal, or aluminum. In addition to adjustable slats, blinds also have the ability to be raised from top to bottom or side to side, depending on whether they are vertical or horizontal in orientation.

Ideal For: With their adjustable slats, window blinds are the natural choice for rooms where privacy and light control are of the utmost importance.

Shades
Shades are made with fabric, sometimes with pleats, as in cellular or pleated shades, and sometimes with a drapery fabric, as in a Roman shade. They can be raised and lowered to control the light in the room, but without the adjustable slats of blinds. There are a variety of shades available, and some of the most popular include:
Cellular shades: These are unique fabric shades constructed from honeycomb-shaped cells that insulate windows with pockets of trapped air. These honeycomb cells improve energy efficiency, but are only visible from the side, giving the shade a clean, crisp look of cascading pleats.
Roller shades: These shades are made of vinyl or fabric and are attached to spring rollers, which allow them to be pulled shut or rolled open.
Roman shades: These are fabric shades that fold neatly to the top when drawn open. A classic, or "teardrop-style" Roman shade offers overlapping folds when the shade is lowered, while a contemporary, or "flat-panel" Roman shade has no folds when lowered.

Ideal For: Shades are ideal for highlighting the transition between your home's exterior and interior spaces. There are also a number of shade options that enable shades to take on insulating and blackout properties, making them ideal for energy efficiency and complete room-darkening. They differ from blinds because they can either expose or cover the window's view, but without adjustable slats, there is no "in-between" in terms of controlling privacy and light.

It's a Shade, It's a Blind, It's... a Sheer Window Shading
While not all window treatments fall into the shade or blind categories (think shutters, which we'll cover later), some window treatments do both, like sheer blinds. Sheer blinds use either horizontal or vertical fabric vanes, and sandwich them between two layers of soft, knitted sheers. This provides them with the adjustable light and privacy control of blinds, and the soft feel of a shade.

Ideal for: Sheer blinds give you privacy control, while allowing light to filter into your home. So choose these blinds for rooms that can benefit from maximizing the natural sunlight.

Swags, Curtains, and Draperies
These terms refer to soft or sheer fabrics that can be used in a variety of ways. Swags, or scarves, can be draped over the top of a window frame, dressing up the window. They can be used in conjunction with a window shade or blind, or by themselves. Curtains and drapes are fabrics that are available in a wide assortment of patterns, textures, and colors, and they can also be used standalone or in combination with a hard window treatment.

Ideal For: The fabrics in swags, curtains, and draperies will soften the look of any window, or offer it an accent that it may not otherwise have. Choose sheer draperies in rooms where you want privacy, but sunlight is limited, as they will let the most amount of light in when closed.

Shutters
Shutters are more architecturally-complex than shades or blinds. They do not have any strings, and the louver blades cannot be pulled up to the top, as in blinds. Instead, the louvers sit on a panel that swings open on hinges, much like a door. The louvers themselves rotate open and closed to control privacy and light settings. Shutters can be made of wood, polymer wood blends, fabric, glass, or metal.

Ideal for: Many people choose shutters for the maximum privacy that they afford, as well as their ability to shade a room from the rays of the sun completely. Shutters can also add a rustic or an elegant touch to any room, due to their architectural beauty. Shutter louvers are typically wider than blind slats, providing better view-through, as well.

Cornices and Valances
From wood to silk flower garland, cornices and valances are placed over unsightly window treatment hardware to add beauty and continuity to your window.

Ideal For: Not only do cornices and valances hide hardware, they can also be expertly placed above the window casing to make the ceiling look taller.

So there you have it - you've got the basics of window treatments covered. Stay tuned for the next article in the series, where I'll discuss how to choose the window treatments that are right for you. You can find it on Kristina's Design Studio at blindcrafter.com, or check out the article on eZinearticles.com.

Stacey Wiktorek is a member of the in-house professional home design team at BlindCrafter.com, where she provides expert decorating and design advice for anyone looking to beautify their home. For tips and home design ideas, or to receive their monthly Customer Club newsletter with trends, advice, and exclusive coupons, visit their website at http://www.blindcrafter.com/kristinasdesignstudio.cfm

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Stacey_Wiktorek

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Single hung aluminum window glass repair

2008-05-02T07:07:00.000-07:00

Let's talk about repairing broken glass in an aluminum frame single hung window. If it's the lower sash pane that is broken, it must be removed from the inside. You are going to have one of three different mechanisms that hold the lower sash up when you slide it open. If you can't see any mechanisms on the sides, then you have a block and tackle system consisting of a string and spring assembly. Find the thin metal clips in the side jambs just above the sash. Pull the bottom of the clip out using a screwdriver or your fingernail. Do that on both sides. Then remove any rubber stops at the very top of the window. Raise the window as high as it will go. The block and tackle assemblies will get snagged in the metal clips, allowing you to remove the window sash. You would replace the glass using the same method described in our article about sliding window repairs. Once you have the new glass installed, install the window panel in the reverse order that you removed it. Close the window and push the metal clips back. Install the rubber stops at the top.

If you have a mechanism across the top of the window with a string coming down each side and screwed into the top corners of the window sash, you need to remove the screws holding the strings in place. But before you remove the screws, you need to remove one of the black plastic pieces that cover the side jamb. Raise the window all the way up, then put a flat screwdriver at the very bottom of the plastic piece and pull outward until you can grab it with your fingers. Slide the plastic out. Now remove the screws holding the strings. Be sure to hold the string in one hand while removing the screw, because the string is under tension. After removing the screw, let the string slowly go back up. Pull the panel to the side that you removed the black plastic piece, and remove the panel. Remember, two of your corner screws will be removed at this point, and the proper way to remove the frame from the glass is to remove opposite corner screws. So, you should put one of the string screws back in and remove the corner screw opposite the removed string screw. Then, when you install the new glass, remove the string screw and install the strings. Raise the window up and install the black plastic piece by sliding it up between the frame and side jamb.

The final mechanism will be a spiral metal rod. If you have this type, i suggest you have it done by a professional. If you aren't careful with these, you can wind up having to replace the spiral rods. Now, if the broken pane is the upper sash, more than likely it will be a fixed panel. You can take these out without messing with the sliding panel. Unlock the window and raise the lower sash a few inches. Remove the screen, then remove the two screws holding the horizontal bar on place. Tap the bar down in one corner using a hammer and screwdriver. The bar will come off. Then you can grab the bottom of the upper sash and wiggle as you pull the sash downward. Once you have pulled it down several inches, you should be able to grab the top and bottom of the sash and pull to the left or right until the opposite side comes out. Then you can swing the panel out.

Once the new glass is installed, you can put the upper sash back by reversing the removal procedure. Tap the bottom upward with a hammer or rubber mallet, ensuring that the sash is fully seated in the top of the frame. Then, put the horizontal mulling bar back in place and tap it on the sash framer. Install the screws and screen. You're done. Next week we will cover broken glass repair of dual pane windows.

John Rocco has been installing replacement windows since 1978. To learn more, visit How To Install Windows

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Rocco

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Insulating Stained Glass To Be Installed In A Door

2008-05-01T06:31:00.000-07:00

Tempered glass needs to surround decorative glass used in a door. This protects people from injury if the glass is broken and it also serves as a barrier against heat loss during cold months. Tempered glass must be ordered in advance and once its been tempered, it can't be cut or ground. (there are pictures that were taken to illustrate this article at http://www.betterstainedglass.com/Newsletter/Archives/2006July-windowindoor/howtohangindoor.htm

#1 Here the panel is lightly cleaned to get any dust off of it that may have collected after you take it to them. They only do a light cleaning, you are responsible for making sure that it is as clean as possible when you take it to them.

#2 Next, the tempered glass is sent through a machine which "super cleans" and dries it.

#3 The stained glass is next laid out on one sheet of the tempered glass. It is centered and there is a gap on each side and top and bottom of 5/16" (the size you subtracted from your finished size when building your panel).

#4 Now, a sticky backed, foam tape with a metal skin is applied to the stained glass panel and the tempered glass below. It sticks to both pieces and holds them firmly.

#5 The metal tape is scored on each corner so it can be folded around the corner with a sharp clean edge. The tape can vary in width, this tape is 1/2", (we recommend 1/4" since the air gap will be less noticeable and the final width of the piece will be 1/2" total.

#6 Laying the second sheet on the foam tape requires help because they only get one chance to do it perfectly. Once the top sheet touches the tape, it's stuck. For this reason, you should always allow for an extra 1/8" in the finished opening of your door, in case the two sheets are slightly misaligned.

#7 Finally, the completed "sandwich" of glass is clamped in a table and hot butyl rubber is forced between the two sheets of tempered glass and filling the gap between the two. This covers the foam tape completely.

#8 Here, the completed window is ready for the customer to pick it up and to install it in their door.

Finally, the completed panel is installed in the door and it looks great!

To correctly size a window, we recommend the following:

The decorative panel should be sized 1" smaller than the actual opening in the door. This allows there to be enough space for foam tape in the bottom of the opening to support the window and for silicone in the sides and top to hold the panel securely. The tempered glass (ordered in advance from the glass company) should be 1/8" smaller than the actual opening on each side or 1/4" smaller in total.

The window trim must be 1/2" or greater on each side. This will allow any slight gaps between the foam tape used when applying tempered glass to the decorative panel to be covered by the trim.

David Gomm started building stained glass windows professionally back in 1983 and has become an expert at many aspects of stained glass building, design and repair. He writes a monthly newsletter at his better stained glass website.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Gomm

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The Secret To Door Panels And Door Speakers

2008-05-01T06:30:00.000-07:00

For some, the prospect of changing out speakers is a daunting one, since you have to remove the door panels to access the speakers tucked away within its walls. They are not a tricky as they seem, if you know the right techniques.

The first thing to do is to locate any screws holding the panel in place. These are generally found in or under the armrest piece, in the door opener latch, or near the bottom of the door panel. Remove as many as you can find to start.

With the screws removed, you will need to carefully pry the door panel off the door. Start in the bottom corner nearest the speaker. Gently pull the panel until it pops loose. There are usually several clips holding it in place. Work around the bottom of the door panel popping the clips out. Be careful to not break them, because you will need them to reinstall it. Continue around the outside of the panel until you have removed as many of the clips as you can. If you have power windows, doors, etc, remove the control panel from the door panel. It is usually clipped in place, and can be carefully pried out. Look for small notches that may give away the position of the clips. If you have mechanical windows, you will need to push the door panel into the door at the window crank, and look for the snap ring clip holding it in place. With a thin flathead screwdriver, pop the clip loose, taking special note of where it goes, as you will need it to secure the piece back in place. Once this is removed, you should have enough clearance to reach the speaker. If not, you can attempt to completely remove the door panel by sliding it upwards and out of the window compartment. You may be caught up by the door opener latch. These can be a little tricky, as some will slide in place horizontally, screw in, or pop out. Look for screws, and if you don't find any, try sliding it horizontally towards the inside. If that doesn't work, see if it pops straight out. It will be connected to the bars that pull the door latch, so they will have to be positioned correctly for the door panel to be removed. If there is a triangular piece of trim in the top corner of the door panel, you will need to remove it also. It also clips in place and can be removed. This should allow the door panel to slide out, assuming you have disconnected the control panels electrical wires.

You should now be in full view of the door speaker. it can be removed by removing the four screws holding it in place. You may also find that the connectors on these speakers won't work for your aftermarket ones, so you will have to clip the wires and attach the end connectors provided with your speakers. Pay attention to positive and negative here. If you are unsure of what is what, there are a few ways to check. Look at the terminals on the factory speaker. It may have a "+" and "-" sign designating positive and negative. If it doesn't tell you, you can log on to installdr.com and look up the color codes for the speaker, or try the battery test. Take a good charged battery and place one of the factory speaker wires (attached to the speaker) on the positive, and one on the negative of the battery. If the speaker pushes out, the polarity is correct as you have it, and attach the wires accordingly. If it pushes in, the polarity is reversed, so reverse the battery and try again. If it pushes out, wire the speakers following that polarity.

Install the speaker in the door by replacing the 4 screws and securing it in place, and reinstalling the door panel. be sure to slide it back down in place, and line up the clips exactly before applying pressure to reattach them. You don't want to break any of those. Finish screwing the door in place, then attach the window control panel/window crank, and congratulations, your done!

Majestic Modifications is the complete car customization concept, specializing in car accessories, cold air intakes and performance upgrades, body kits and exterior accessories, glow gauges and interior accessories, wheels and tires, mobile video, car audio and electronics.You can also check out our Car Audio Installations Blog.

Majestic Modifications is your online source for auto accessories, auto parts, car audio, installations advice, and technical support.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Matt_Brooks

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http://www.ezinearticles.com/?What-You-Need-to-Know-About-Custom-Window-Coverings&id=428338

2008-05-01T06:25:00.000-07:00

If you are interested in decorating, then you probably already know that one of the most important areas of decorating are window coverings. Window coverings are one of the most important features in a decorated room, and make a real statement about the taste of the owner's decorating style. If you are considering a home improvement project, the place you ought to start is with the window coverings. Custom window coverings are the most desirable kind, made exclusively for you. They can match any item of furniture in your home, or you can pick a favorite color or design and use that in you window covering.

Perhaps that color or design reflects your personal taste in clothing. You are limited only by your imagination in terms of what can be done with custom window coverings. There are so many types of window coverings available the the choice will be the most difficult part of the task. You can choose shades, draperies, curtains, venetian blinds and more. Here are the most popular choices: Shades are one of the most popular items for custom window treatment. They are used to add darkness and privacy to a room, but with all the new designs available, they also add a great deal of beauty. Roller shades, roman shades, sheer shades, pleated, honeycomb shaped shades are all available to add a certain look to a window. Room darkening shades are especially popular for bedrooms.

Blinds are still very popular and even if they are custom cut can still be very affordable. Blinds come in such styles as horizontal, vertical, cellular, sheer, wood and metal blinds in various colors. Curtains are the topping for a beautiful window. Curtains go over your shades or blinds to add color, texture or both. Custom curtains can be made to match any feature of your room or home, or create a certain look.

You can find Victorian style curtains, vintage or antique looking curtains, or thoroughly modern. You should choose a material that is fire retardant. Custom window treatments can be expensive, but, depending on the fabric and features you choose, you can limit your costs. Make sure you have very accurate measurements of your windows, because if you took the measurements and the curtains don't fit, you are still stuck with the curtains if they have been custom made. Many custom window treatment companies offer warranties on the quality of the materials and construction used. If that is made available, it is good to take advantage of it. Once you know all of the options available to you, you can start decorating with your custom window coverings.

Greg Hansward usually publishes publications on things relating to home improvement. You might come across his abstracts on custom window coverings at http://www.curtains-drapes-coverings.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Greg_J._Hansward

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Fabric Window Treatment Ideas

2008-04-30T07:34:00.001-07:00

This article will present a few fabric window treatment ideas that you might want to use as you cover your house up and put the drapes on. You can also use these ideas as the take-off point for your own ideas in improving your window treatment.

If your house has a low ceiling and few windows, do not use velvet or other heavy drapery, as they can increase your cooling bill. Use such drapes in the winter, but stash them away and put on the sheer curtains during the summer or spring months. You can also layer your curtains: put lace over cotton, to create a cottage, down-home feel; or place veil over glossy material to imitate a bridal gown.

If you cannot afford heavy drapes but still want color in your window, then add stained glass panels to your window, or hang up stained glass chimes. These can change the color of the light coming into your home, and can add to the appeal of your windows.

You can also innovate on the different ways to tie your drapes: tie them with different colored ribbons, or place dried flowers in your knots. Hang on braided fabrics to the edges or knots in your curtain. If your house is made up of cool stone or brick, you can turn your home into a castle by hanging up brocade or velvet curtains with embroidery.

These are only a few fabric window treatment ideas that you can use, so be creative and adventurous, and add accessories or decorations where you like. If you have heavy drapes, do not overdo your set-up, and instead let the design of your fabrics stand on their own. If you want to use thin, simple, or sheer drapes, however, you can add decorations, but make sure that they do not make the window appear too over-laden with accessories.

Do not settle for only one or two fabric window treatment ideas to decorate your window for the next three years. Innovate constantly, and make sure that you get your drapes washed regularly. You can have a pretty window in no time, with the best fabrics showing off your interests and style.

To learn more window treatment ideas, visit http://www.windowtreatmentideas101.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tim_Lee

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Window Coverings Guide - Decorate Your Home With Window Coverings

2008-04-30T07:33:00.001-07:00

Window coverings give a new look to your home. It is a material that is normally used on interior side of window but sometimes it can also be used on the exterior side of window. Actually window covering is a material, which is used to cover a window to reduce sunlight or to ensure privacy.

Window covering is an essential part of home decoration. Drapes, curtains are such types of window coverings. Window blinds like Venetian blinds, vertical and mini blinds, and shutters are also come under the category of window coverings. You can use several types of boarding as temporary window coverings. Window coverings provide finishing touch to your home.

With window coverings, it is very difficult to understand the interior view from outside. These are always visible that enables you to see out the window. You can also use some window shades that help you to feel comfortable in your home and other people can easily get you. Your choice of window coverings for your home shows your feelings about your living area.

Nowadays consumer market is full of different varieties of window shades, blinds, shutters and curtains. You can choose the best window coverings as per your requirements and likings. Window coverings can be used for office, bedroom as well as kitchen.

About Author: Author owns a website on Window Coverings. Website offers information about best window coverings, types of window coverings, how to buy window coverings and cost of window coverings. You can also get information about Windows Shades from his site.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sardool_Sikandar

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How To Sew A French Seam

2008-04-30T07:25:00.000-07:00

Many sewing projects that you encounter will have you sewing 2 panels of fabric together... creating a seam. Unless you have a serger, the edges of your seam are going to be ragged... and possibly unraveling.

Now, if you're sewing a lined drapery panel or sewing a pillow... a sewing project where the seams will end up being hidden, then the ragged edges are no big deal.

But what if you plan on sewing a sheer drapery panel? Those seams would look unsightly. What do you do?

You sew a french seam instead. A french seam is a seam that encloses the raw edges into itself. It's very simple and will make your projects nice and neat.

Step 1. Lay your fabric panels wrong sides together.

Step 2. Sew a 3/8" seam along the side edge

Step 3. Open up the sewn panel and press the seams open. Press well

Step 4. Fold the panel on the seam line right sides together.

Step 5. Press the folded edge

Step 6. Sew in 5/8" from the folded edge enclosing the raw edges of the 3/8" seam

Step 7. Press the seam to one side

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Visit www.simplesewingprojects.com to read this article with easy to follow diagrams
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Now you have a clean, professional seam with no ugly raw edges.

Use a french seam whenever you are going to have the backside of the seam exposed.

Happy Sewing!

Jennifer Thoden

Discover free sewing projects, expert sewing tips, easy free sewing lessons and exciting decorating projects. Visit http://www.simplesewingprojects.com to enjoy Jennifer Thoden's detailed step by step instructions and illustrations.

http://www.simplesewingprojects.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jennifer_Thoden

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How To Change Keyboard Language In Windows XP

2008-04-29T06:31:00.001-07:00

If you want to learn how to change your keyboard language while using Windows XP, you come to the right article. It's fairly easy once you know how it's done and by the end of this article you will.

Of course, the first step is to sit in front of your turned on computer which I assume you are since you're reading this article. Now that you're sitting comfortably, you can begin to change your keyboard language.

1. Click the Start button at the bottom left corner of the screen. This will present you with a long two column menu. On the right menu, click the option Control Panel.

2. There are 2 options in which the Control Panel icons may be presented: catergory or classic. You want to be in Classic view. You can see at the left side of the Control Panel which view you're currently in. If it says Switch To Category View, it means you're now in Classic view which is what you want. If it says Switch to Classic View, click that link.

3. In The Control panel, click the Regional and Language Options icon. This will open a small dialog. You're about halfway to changing your keyboard language.

4. In this new dialog, you will see 3 tabs. The middle one reads Languages. Click on that.

5. In the top half of this tab, you will see a button which reads Details. Click on that button. A new dialog window will open.

6. In The lower half of the new dialog window, you will see and Add button. This will open yet another dialog window.

7. At the top half of this screen, you will see a Combo under the title of Input Language. Choose the language you wish to add and click OK twice.

8. Look at the bottom of your screen in what is known as the System Tray (bottom right corner), you will see an indication of the current language you're using (EN signifies English). You can now switch between the different language you've installed by pressing Alt+Shift keys.

There you have it. You've successfully changed your keyboard language.

Boris Drezny is a graduate student. He writes about computer hardware and software. To read how to add a language to your keyboard itself, click here: Keyboard Engraving. To read more about laser Keyboard marking, click here: Keyboard Marking - The end of keyboard stickers.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Boris_Drezny

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Flat Monitor Panel Screen Touch

2008-04-29T06:30:00.001-07:00

The best advantage of a Flat Monitor Panel Screen Touch is its size, or lack of it! Earlier, people used CRT monitors, which were big and occupied lots of space. But now with new advancements in technology, Flat Monitor Panel Screen Touch is widely used. All the work in a Flat Monitor Panel Screen Touch is done behind its thin screen by liquid crystals and millions of transistors. So, the Flat Monitor Panel Screen Touch doesn't need a long case.

If you are looking for more table space, the Flat Monitor Panel Screen Touch is handy for you. Flat Monitor Panel Screen Touch with a built-in USB port is even more handy, if your touch screen monitor has all four USB ports in the back of the machine. No longer you are needed to pull the computer out from behind the desk, to simply download pictures from your digital camera. You just plug the camera into one of the Flat Monitor Panel Screen Touch's USB ports, and you're good to go.

Another nice thing about Flat Monitor Panel Screen Touch is its level of brightness. Flat Monitor Panel Screen Touch displays are also usually crisper. Graphics and Text have sharper edges on the Panel Touch Screen Monitors. CRT Monitors use an analog signal, i.e., it is carried on a wave. Flat Panel Monitors can be either analog, or digital. Many flat Monitor Screen Touch Panels have connections for both.

Using a Digital Flat Monitor Panel Screen Touch depends on your video card. This is a circuit board inside your computer. Its output points stick out of the back of your Flat Panel Monitor Screen Touch. If your Flat Monitor Panel Screen Touch is relatively new, you may have both digital and analog outputs on your video card.

Online entrepreneur Sara Jenkins, is dedicated to helping others and their needs to succeed in life by offering free tips everyday. To learn more about her free tips program, and to sign up for her FREE how-to articles and FREE bonus how-to books and resources, visit http://www.TipsEveryDay.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sara_Jenkins

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Horizontal Blinds – Enjoy Real Wood, Vinyl, Or Aluminum

2008-04-29T06:27:00.000-07:00

In horizontal blinds, you can buy blinds made by many different manufacturers and in varying price ranges. Of course, everyone loves a bargain, so why not shop around to find retailers that sell the top brand names at discount prices. One of the places where you can realize great savings in horizontal blinds at discount prices is the American Blind and Wallpaper Company. With the wide range of horizontal blinds available in this location, you can shop for sheer blinds or any number of other styles of discount horizontal blinds.

The top selling brand of horizontal blinds is the Hunter Douglas Everwood 2 inch blind. This is a wood blind made from real hardwood and selected composite materials. With this blind you realize a discount in getting wood blinds for your windows at a significantly lower price than the more expensive blinds, yet you do not have faux wood blinds. If you want sheer horizontal blinds, you should know that this is one of the specialty shades. Although it is slightly higher in price, when you order online you will get a fantastic discount and free shipping.

Sheer horizontal blinds help to create distinctive widow coverings. These horizontal blinds are not only soft and luxurious, but they are also very unique. You don’t have to bypass this type of blind because they are available as discount horizontal blinds and are well worth a second look. In these blinds, the slats are made of fabric and appear to float between two layers of translucent sheer. This gives you a softened look of the outside of the window.

If you want horizontal blinds with a look of Venetian blinds tempered with sheer, then the sheer horizontal blinds will give you the look you want. You can adjust the slats to open or closed or even have them angled to allow only part of the light to shine through directly. You can raise or lower these blinds and with the discount horizontal blinds in this style, you can afford to buy enough blinds for every window of your home.

Horizontal blinds operate with a side cord, but you can also have them motorized as well. By shopping online, you can get the motorized blinds as discount horizontal blinds simply because of the cheaper online prices. Sheer horizontal blinds are designed to be functional as well as pleasing. They are made from sturdy polyester and they are easy to clean. If you get spots or stains on these horizontal blinds, you can lightly rub the stain with a mild cleaner. When you install these blinds at your window, they will enhance the look of the room in a way that no other blinds can.

To find out more about Window Blinds visit Peter's Website The Blinds Guide and find out about American Blinds and more, including Vertical Blinds, Venetian Blinds, Custom Blinds and Discount Blinds

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Peter_Crump

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HOME::Automotive RSS

2008-04-28T07:32:00.001-07:00

If you find out that your car window has been broken, you can go to a nearby auto shop and ask if they have a replacement in stock. If you are successful in your search, then you can begin the process of replacing your car window. The first step is to make sure that you have the appropriate tools for the project. You will usually need a wide selection of hand tools, a tarp, a repair manual and a vacuum. The next thing to do is to safely remove the door panel of your car door and once you’ve found a plastic sheet under the panel, you can slowly peel it. You will probably see the pieces of glass from your old car window, remove those safely using gloves and your vacuum cleaner.

Putting in the glass

The next step is to fit in the new window through the two-inch wide slot located on the top of the door panel. This step can prove tricky because fitting in the glass may require that you unbolt some bolts on the door panel to provide more space for the fitting of the glass. Your repair manuals will come in very handy in this particular step. The repair manual will also show you the placement of the bracket and clips that were bonded to the glass. The next step is to make sure that the glass is aligned after you replace the bracket bolts and the weather-stripping on the door panel. After this, get the door panel back and align it to the window crank lever and test your new car window.

Doing repairs yourself can prove to be a tricky task, that is why repair manuals and a small amount of experience can come in handy in minor repair jobs such as the replacement of your car window.

Replacement Windows provides detailed information on Car Replacement Windows, Door Replacement Windows, Glass Replacement Windows, Home Window Replacements and more. Replacement Windows is affiliated with Recessed Lighting Fixtures.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kristy_Annely

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The Beauty Of Sheer Window Treatments

2008-04-28T07:30:00.000-07:00

Sheer window treatments have always been a favorite among homemakers and stylish interior designs. The main reason is that it is able to provide privacy without compromising light and structure. Sheer window treatments appear very lightweight and captivating at the same time. Here are some tips and tricks on how to properly design your windows.

Sheer window curtains are great when used alone since it creates a very warm and relaxing effect allowing a lot of light in through your windows. If you want to add more detail, you can use sheer curtain panels together with panel curtains or pinch pleated drapes. This will look more classic and sophisticated but still allows a lot of light which balances everything.

Plain white sheer fabric is one of the most commonly used items although you also have other choices like woven patterns and other plain colors. The colors and patterns you choose should always be consistent with your main room theme. Light and pastel colors are recommended for smaller rooms while others can experiment with bold and darker hues if they have larger rooms and taller windows.

Sheer panels, sheer valances, sheer Priscilla window curtains and sheer scarf curtain are other great alternative treatments. Sheer panel curtains are ideal for French windows or single-door windows. Sheer valances are available in simple plain colors as well as woven patterns. Valances along with scarf window treatments look very nice in country themed living rooms and bedrooms. It provides a warming effect due to the nice input of light from the outside. More detailed treatments would involve sheer fabric ruffled Priscilla. These are available in various mixed tones and colors.

Sheer curtains can compliment heavy drapes as well. There are various new fabrics, designs and patterns of sheer available such as cotton, linen, silk, wool and lace. Some even come with beads, embroidery and metallic threading. When combined with draperies, sheer will help balance the heavy aura. This type of style is usually preferred in very large dining room areas and living rooms with very tall windows. Without draperies, sheers will create a gossamer style with a fusion of modern and contemporary design.

For window treatment ideas, visit http://www.windowtreatmentideas101.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tim_Lee

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Window Curtains Help With Adding More Privacy To Your Home

2008-04-27T06:54:00.000-07:00

Make Your Home Elegant With Curtains:

To put together the window curtains which you have preferred look astonishing there are different treatments you can use. These treatments will all have need of various fittings. You can use a style called pinch pleats and tabs. This style is used to mainly dress up a room. Another style which looks elegant is that of the ruffled look. Even though you see this type of window treatment in girl's rooms, it can be used all the way through your home.

You should judge the most appropriate length for your curtains. Some can sit just above the window sill, giving the impression of fitting neatly into the window space. These are ideal when you have a radiator under the window, so you don't lose all the heat up through the window behind the curtain. If you want your ended to rest just below the window ledge, be sure your curtain pole is mounted far enough from the wall to ensure that curtain can hang freely and does not touch the window sill. Floor length curtains should finish just before the floor so they don't drag. If they touch the floor they will become soiled very quickly and may be stood on and ripped.

If the window looks onto streets or sidewalks, then curtains can be used for privacy. Translucent curtains like net curtains or sheer curtains will only block sunlight partially. These types of curtains do not provide any privacy, especially at night. For privacy opaque curtains are better.

Curtains are also used for light be in command of to prevent glare, for sleeping during the day, or watching TV etc. Opaque curtains are suited for light have power over. For partial light control sheer or net type curtains are better suited. Curtains are also used for increasing the artistic appeal of a room. An elegant curtain greatly increases the aesthetics.

You can also find more info on Curtains and Hospital Curtains Homecurtainsonline.com is a comprehensive resource to know about Curtains & Drapes.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Faulkner

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The Effect of Curtains as Window Treatments

2008-04-27T06:52:00.000-07:00

You can dramatically alter your windows by adding different types of fabric and colors. You can also easily alter them in the way that you hang your curtains. During your home design, or re-design you’ll find a lot of unique ways to change the look of your home, and using the windows as a starting point, at least for planning can be a tremendous idea.

As well the way you use tiebacks for curtains and drapes have a lot to do with the way your windows look.

The most usual positions for the tie back are the middle tie, the center tie, the high tie, the crisscross tie and the low tie.

When you use the high tie you’re hanging either one or two panels on the window up above the center point of the windows height.

When using the middle tie you’re pulling the panels back to the point nearer to the middle of the curtain. Usually the best affect is to tie back at the exact center point.

If you’re looking to do the low tie, then you’ll be pulling the curtain back about ¾ of the distance from the top of the floor.

Now the center tie is a bit different in that it gathers either one or two curtains and then proceeds to bind them together at the vertical center of the window, and this is about 2/3 or ¾ of the distance from the bottom to the top.

There’s also the crisscross tie that starts with two overlapping panels that hang the full width of the window. You’ll be pulling the outer panel back to one side, and then the inner curtain is pulled to the opposite side.

Curtains are a varied aspect of the homes interior and can come all different types and styles. One of the ways that all types of curtains are classified is either as informal or formal, no matter the length or color of the fabric.

The more formal type of window is often called a drapery, and will be hung in layers. These are usually found in sitting rooms or living rooms of the home, as well as formal dining rooms. The formal treatments are usually made in two to three layers. The first of the layers is what’s known as the sheer, which is usually a single layered sheer linen or lace, and this will usually let in a diffused amount of light into the room. This layer usually is meant to make murky the visibility from outside.

Next is the pleated floor length drapes. These are hung from a traverse rod, and are meant to cover the side casing and trim of the window frame. Next is the valance that runs along the top of the window, usually only covering a small portion of the window from the top down.

Anything else is just an informal curtain, which are usually just a one or two layer type of window covering, which are meant to be mostly functional, with some decorative style as well, and to simply diffuse the sunlight, not to block it out all together like many drapes.

The magazine writer George Davidsberg is really passionate about news similar to window coverings. You might come across his observations on curtains at http://www.curtains-drapes-coverings.com and other sources for curtains news.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=George_K._Davidsberg

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Window Shutters On A Budget

2008-04-27T06:40:00.000-07:00

While there is great value in installing custom-made interior wood window shutters, sometimes they are still too expensive for certain applications. Some alternatives – including poly or vinyl shutters – are less expensive but also much less attractive. For a high-quality solution at a lower cost, look for a company that sells individual solid wood shutter panels that can be installed in any configuration.

When shopping for individual shutter panels, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. The most important factor is the material used to make the interior shutter panels. Basswood has the best characteristics for window shutters because it is a very straight hard wood with little distortion. Basswood also has a fine, uniform texture and indistinct grain, which make it superior for staining or painting. You should also look for a company that can make a large number of panel sizes so you can receive the best final fit for your window.

How To Determine Individual Panel Sizes to Order

It is best to determine how you will mount your shutters before ordering the shutter panels. Sometimes it is necessary to use hanging strips to attach shutters to the outside of the window opening. A reputable company will provide information about different installation methods so you can determine how best to install on a specific window.

Width:
Measure the width of the area you want the shutters to cover (NOT including any trim strips).

1. Divide this width by the number of panels you want across the window. This will give you the approximate width of each panel. Round this measurement up to the nearest 1/4 inch.

Example:
Width = 36-7/16"
Divide by 4 and round up to nearest 1/4"
Order (4) shutter panels 9-1/4" wide

Height:
Up to 1" may be trimmed off the top and the bottom of each individual panel (a total of 2" per panel).

1. For a two tier unit (panels across the top and bottom), combine individual panel heights as required.

Finishing
A high-quality wood shutter panel can be painted or stained to a beautiful finish. Even if the shutters arrive and seem fairly smooth, a light sanding is advised before beginning the finishing process. After sanding and brushing off any dust, primer and paint can be applied. Often a more smooth finish is achieved by spraying the primer and paint, although the use of a high-quality brush can also result in a nice finish. When staining, follow the instructions given by the stain manufacturer. The stain manufacturer may recommend applying a wood conditioner before staining in order to ensure even stain color penetration.

Once your shutters are finished and installed, you will have a high-quality product that will increase the value of your home at a fraction of the cost of custom-made shutters.

ShutterLand Interior Shutters provides solid wood interior window shutters sold as individual shutter panels. Interior window shutters come unfinished, ready to paint or stain. Plantation and traditional style shutters are manufactured direct in hundreds of sizes, sold at a discount, and shipped quickly nationwide.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sarah_Vande_Krol

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How Curtains Can Change the Look of Your Home

2008-04-26T07:40:00.001-07:00

The roles of curtains have changed. At one time they were used to retain heat, block cold air, control sunlight and provide privacy. They still perform these roles, but with the many advancements in window glass and window design technology, they are often much more decorative than functional. Decorators can be much more creative in their window treatments with this shift to the decorative usage.

For many people, there is a distinction between the terms curtains and drapes. Drapes are usually floor length, lined and suspended from a traverse rod with hooks that will allow them to be opened and closed by pulling a cord. Draperies are usually very formal looking. Curtains are less formal. They are usually those fabric window treatments that are suspended by hooks or rings from a rod and opened and closed by grasping the edge and pulling the fabric panel into position. Often they are tied back to the window casing and are not opened or closed at all. In these situations, they are frequently used in conjunction with shades, or blinds which can be closed to block sunlight or provide privacy.

Types of curtains

There are three basic types of curtains. These are the panel, the cafe and tiered. Panel are simply plain panels of fabric that are hemmed at the top and at the bottom. They are suspended from the top of the window by rings or hooks and hang in natural folds, giving the window a less formal appearance. These are often used in bedrooms and dining rooms and maybe used in combination with shades, blinds or sheers. Cafe curtains are generally hung from the center of the window, leaving the upper part of the window bare or exposed. Sometimes the cafe styles will be hung one fourth or one third of the way down from the top of the window, giving the window a much different look. Either way, they are tied back. Cafe curtains are often used in kitchens and in informal dining areas. The third kind is the tiered. These are multiple panels with one or two panels hanging over the top of the two base panels. The base panels usually cover the bottom half of the window and the outer panels cover the top half of the window and hang down to overlap the base panels.

There are three basic lengths as well. The sill length is either suspended from either the halfway point or the top of the window. The bottom hem is not quite touching the windowsill. The below the sill style is cut so the bottom hem hangs just below the apron or trim board running across the bottom of the window. The floor length style is cut so the bottom hem is just above the floor.

There are also be lined or unlined styles, depending upon the amount of natural light that is to be admitted to the room. Similarly, there are interlined styles, with a third layer sandwiched between the panel and the lining. They are designed to provide protection from cold air that is conducted from the outside to the inside through the glass, or air seeping through cracks in the windowsill or between the sash and the window frame.

Tie back styles

The appearance of a window can be dramatically altered by the colour and fabric used. It can also be altered in the manner the curtains are hung. One popular and attractive arrangement is the tie back. Tie back options offer decorators tremendous choices in creating unique and very attractive windows.

The most popular tie back positions are the high tie, the middle tie, the low tie, the centre tie, the crisscrossed tie and the angled double tie.

1. The high tie is when one or two panels are hung in the window. The tie pulls the panel back above the centreline of the window.

2. The middle tie pulls the panel back at a point near the middle of the curtain. It looks best if it is not done at the exact centre, but either slightly above or slightly below the centre.

3. The low tie pulls the curtain back about three-fourths of the distance from the top to the floor.

4. The centre tie gathers one or two curtains and pulls them together in the vertical centre of the window, about two thirds or three fourths of the distance from the top to the bottom.

5. The crisscrossed tie starts with two overlapping panels hanging the full width of the window. The outer panel is pulled back to one side and the inner curtain is pulled back to the opposite side.

6. The angled tie uses either one or two curtains. The panel is pulled partially back in the high tie position and pulled back more closely to the window casing in the bottom tie position. The panel is tied back twice in such a way that it is hung in a pleasing, billowing angle from one top corner of the window to a point below the opposite side of the window.

Formal and informal styles

Curtains can be as varied as the individuals in whose homes they hang. Even with all of the variety in fabrics, colours, lengths and methods of hanging, all curtain styles can be classified as either formal or informal.

Formal window treatments are usually called draperies and hang in layers. They are most often found in formal parlors or sitting rooms, living rooms and formal dining rooms. The window treatment is usually done in two or three layers. The first layer is the sheer, which is often a single panel of sheer linen or lace that admits diffused light into the room. Sheers also tend to obscure visibility from the outside, especially if the lighting in the room is subdued. The second layer is usually the pleated floor length drapes. The drapes are suspended from traverse if they are intended to be opened and closed. Drapes are hung from above the window and cover the side casing and trim of the window as they fall toward the floor. The third layer is the curtain running across the window top and covers the top of the window casing, trim and the heading of the draperies. Draperies and valances are often lined. Draperies may be below sill length although they are often floor length.

Everything else is informal curtains, usually hung in one or two layers. They are seldom lined, and are used to diffuse light, not to block it out.

Curtains are decorative, but have other uses as well, aside from providing privacy. They are useful in room darkening to protect room contents from the adverse effects of the sun’s UV rays. Sunlight can fade the colors in furniture and carpet fabrics. Lined curtains are especially good for protecting furniture and carpeting near windows facing either to the south or to the west.

Rob Carlton is a freelance writer who enjoys writing about window coverings and home decoration for his website http://www.curtains-drapes-coverings.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robert_Carlton

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Sheer Curtains - Leaving Nothing To The Imagination

2008-04-26T07:39:00.000-07:00

Most people put up curtains by their windows for the purpose of privacy. Even the most social individuals need to be able to do things in their house by themselves, without the intrusion of the outside world. A regular curtain will provide this privacy, and prevent people outside from seeing everything you do in your house.

However, there are people who just love to be the center of attention at all times, no matter what they are doing. Their pleasure seems to be in having an audience watch their every move, even in the most private rooms of their house. This is why sometimes you will see a house with very sheer curtains put up, even in the bedroom window. The homeowner is probably one of those people who thrive on being in the limelight.

If you want to use curtains for privacy, sheer curtains are definitely not the way to go. Sheer curtains provide very little, if any, amount of privacy. Some of these curtains are so translucent that people passing by can see everything you are doing. For most of the people who use sheer curtains, this is exactly the point. They derive pleasure from being able to share their most intimate rituals with anyone who wants to watch.

Different people definitely have different beliefs and preferences. While voyeurism is not for everybody, there is really nothing wrong with it. However, people who use sheer curtains in their house must also exercise discretion in certain situations. For example, there may be young children around who are not supposed to see what they are doing. In these cases, they might have to temporarily replace their sheer curtains with more opaque drapes.

Although there are people who do like using sheer curtains for a kinky purpose, it not the sole use of these almost transparent curtains. People who live in high-rise apartments may also use sheer curtains, but their purpose would not be to entertain voyeurs, as nobody will be standing outside their 10th floor window watching their private activities.

No matter what you use them for, sheer curtains are definitely an unusual kind of curtain, and putting them up in your home or apartment surely adds a touch of your personality to your house.

You can also find more info on Curtains and Hospital Curtains. Homecurtainsonline.com is a comprehensive resource to know about Curtains & Drapes.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Faulkner

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A Brighter Cellar

2008-04-26T07:36:00.000-07:00

If you are planning to renovate your cellar into a living space then you are probably aware that the windows you have are too small to make a difference. Many people do not mind an enclosed space if it is well lit, but most people appreciate a window to the outside world or at least the illusion of one.

Since the cellar concrete block walls have to be covered with sheet rock, it presents a perfect opportunity to create a window with daylight streaming into the room. By placing the wall two feet into the room, the space can be used for a niche, storage cabinets, book shelves and a window. As for losing two feet of room space, the inset can be configured to square off a too long room and the convenience of extra storage space is important. The space behind the wall makes it easy to run electric wiring, speaker wires and telephone connections.

A standard sash window can be used or better, a diamond paned picture window. Provision must be made to be able to enter the space for maintenance. To the left and right of the window, two double tube florescent fixtures with special daylight balanced tubes will shine on a curved panel of thin sheet rock. The top third of the reflecting panel can be painted a light sky blue and the lower two thirds a pale grass green. Creative types may consider painting a garden scene or a quiet lake view.

As an alternative to plain glass panes, stained glass or plastic patterned panels can be inserted behind the glass for a more decorative look. A dimmer switch can be mounted on the wall for ambiance lighting. Your new window will serve as a focal point for your new basement room, lending a a cozy atmosphere just as a fireplace does in your family room.

About the Author: A retired portrait and wedding photographer, I enjoy writing , how to articles, helpful articles on photography and many other subjects. My hobbies include quartet singing, shop, bicycling and photography. Please visit my web site at http://www.photoartbyken.com [Articles, Digital Art, Poetry, Original sheet music.]

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kenneth_C._Hoffman

Kenneth C. Hoffman - EzineArticles Expert Author

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Different Ways to Accessorize Your Curtains

2008-04-25T09:26:00.001-07:00

Window treatments can speak volumes about the mood of a room. They can hang freely, or be tied back in a variety of ways. They can be informal and casual or formal and polished. Knowing the differences can help you decide which look is best for your home.

Tying back curtains above the halfway point of a window is called a “high tie”. Curtains tied with a middle tie are tied back at two opposite sides at the center of the window. The low tie is used to secure a curtain about three-quarters of the way down. Sometimes a center tie is used, which brings the drape into the center of the window, generally toward the lower part, and tied with a ribbon or tie back. The criss-cross tie is used when two overlapping panels are each pulled back to the opposite sides of the window. Depending on the fabric they’re tying back, all of these tie back options can give a formal or casual look to a room.

The tie backs themselves can also make an impact, and change the feel of a window treatment. You can tie back with ribbon, satin tassels or fabric that matches the curtains. You can also use metal U-shaped hardware that is affixed to the wall. The curtains are simply tucked into the U and arranged to create a pleasing appearance.

Though choices for window treatments are endless, most curtain styles fall under two categories: formal or casual.

Formal window treatments, called “draperies”, are generally hung in layers, with panels, shades or blinds under heavier panels. The panel is generally a light-diffusing lace or sheer linen, topped by a heavier pleated drape, which usually hangs to the floor. They’re hung from a curtain rod, and may be opened by a cord pulley mechanism. These may be topped by a valance across the top of the window. This covers any hardware or rods, and gives a finished look to the window. These are usually found in formal living rooms or dining rooms, and have become less common with the advent of more casual, usable living spaces and easy-care home design options.

All other types of window coverings are informal. They may employ one or two layers, and aren’t usually lined. These types of curtains are lighter in appearance, and can be used to dress a window up or down.

Whichever window treatments you choose, you’re sure to find that the way you accessorize them is just as important.

George Davidsberg's reports can be discovered on quite some online sites with reference to window coverings and blinds. Working on his works like http://www.curtains-drapes-coverings.com, the reviewer demonstrated his expertise on information associated to curtains.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=George_T._Davidsberg

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Door Curtains Adds An Elegant Touch Of Style To Your Home

2008-04-25T09:21:00.000-07:00

Door Curtains not only control light and add elegance to a home but also provides residents the privacy from neighboring homes. The door curtains have come into being with the modern home designs where the window panels were placed in the doors, which gives the home an awesome look. Through the passage of time the door curtains have evolved into different designs and styles according to the window panels installed in doors. The door curtains have now become a huge industry and the designers are working creatively to introduce new patterns and designs to fabricate cutting edge styles.

The door curtains come in many styles, designs and sizes and are according to the different stylish patterns of the doors. When you are going to order the door curtains you must measure them from the center of the top rod pocket to the center of the bottom rod pocket, which will give you the accurate measurement of the curtain for your door/doors. The rods that are mounted on the doors can also be adjusted to accommodate the door panels. The different door curtain designs include Solid Color Fabric Door Panel, Soft Stripe Leno Fabric Door Panels, White Sheer Fabric Door Panels, Unique Sheer Fabric Door Panels, etc.

Anyone who is buying the door curtain must look for affordability as well as the practicality of the product. The best way to start searching for the door curtain would be to look on the internet and with that one would be able to find the different patterns and designs, which would enable them to go through a selection of curtains and find the one that suits the best. If you are throwing a party, you can get themed door curtains to match the décor and that would add a really cool look to your interior décor arrangements.

Mrs. Party... Gail Leino takes a common sense approach to planning and organizing events, celebrations and holiday parties with unique ideas for birthday party supplies and fun party games. She explains proper etiquette and living a healthy life while also teaching organizational skills and fun facts. The Party Supplies Hut has lots of party ideas with hundreds of free holiday printable games and free birthday party activities. Over 100 adorable Themes including Party Supplies to fit your birthday celebration, holiday event, or "just because" parties. Party themes include cartoon characters, sports, movie, TV shows, luau, western, holidays, and unique crazy fun theme ideas.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gail_Leino

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Prestige Blinds: Why Panel Tracks Are A Great Alternative

2008-04-24T06:38:00.001-07:00

When dressing a window in your home you should consider all the available alternatives, whether curtains, panel track blinds or vertical blinds.

Amongst the various choices you have to give your windows some privacy or to shade the bright sun, panel track blinds are a great alternative to consider. As many people are put off by the difficulty of installing vertical blinds, curtains are becoming obsolete. This is why you should really consider panel track blinds.

For a low cost they will give your home a great design touch that is suitable for many rooms and very easy to use. These blinds can really add to your home décor in many ways. For instance you can use them as part of your overall design scheme to anchor the look of the room or you can give a room an air of romance as they soften the light. Whatever the feature you are after, their ease of use compared to vertical blinds should make panel track blind a very solid contender when considering your options.

What Panel Track Blinds Have To Offer

By the simple way they are constructed, panel track blinds offer many options for your home. For instance, if you have a very large window in one of your rooms it can be impractical and very costly to install drapes. What would be a difficult DIY project becomes a very straightforward job with panel tracks, even if the expanse of window to dress is significant.

One of the great things with panel track blinds is the vast variety of materials on offer. For instance you will find some that are made of woven woods, such as bamboo, yarns and various other types of woods that can give a room an exotic look. They come in 16 weaves. There are also solar blinds that are made of woven PVC, poly or fiberglass: this particular type of track panels can instantly give your room a very modern, contemporary look. Another great feature to look for in panel tracks is that they are available in many colors. For a more industrial look, you can chose woven fiberglass panels with a vinyl coating. All in all there are very many options to choose from to add a touch of prestige to your home.

Another great advantage if the panel track blinds over other window dressing option is how easy they are to use. They make a grand design statement in any room and their graceful, elegant style will help transform the space into a beautiful room. For great results you should always take your time when selecting the color and material that will work best with your room décor and the wood of your windows. A fine quality product is always a good investment for your home.

Andrew Caxton is a journalist who has written more articles and newsletters on this subject for http://www.home-decorating-reviews.com A website with tips on prestige blinds, amongst many related topics.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Andrew_Caxton

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Drapery Fabric Enhances Your Window Architectural Style In Any Room In Your Home

2008-04-24T06:37:00.001-07:00

Hanging drapery fabric to your living or dining room windows will add style, control light, and enhance or obscure a view. Drapery panels are usually more formal in appearance, and are mostly heaver than curtain fabric. Typically lined, pleated, and floor-length, drapery curtains are attach by hooks to a decorative rod, and some sort of cord device that hangs behind either the left or right of the drapery panel. Choose complementary treatments in rooms that open to one anther or that share the same style furniture.

If your window styles and sizes vary within a room, use the same fabric but in different fabrications, such as classic swags and draperies. The styles and colors you wear may reveal the color you’re most comfortable living in. Whatever your style preference, don’t let your window treatment’s form obstruct its function. In formal room, choose full, flowing window treatments that complement the fabrics of the furnishings. Use pattern or color to transform a window into a formal point.

For starters, window treatment doesn’t have to be fabric. Either way, don’t overfill the room with fabrics; “less is more” in the design scheme. Choosing the right drapery fabric can make all the difference in fashioning great treatments. There are many ways of hanging sheer drapes, conventionally with a casing or eyelets, or you can use a gathered heading tape with a track or pole. Tall windows in high-ceiling room are perfect candidates for classic drapery and valance treatments.

So before you choose a window covering, consider the way your window open and close. Whatever type of curtain or drapery you select, how you top it and tie it back can have a major impact on your design schemes. Combination treatments give you freedom to manipulate the apparent size and shape of your windows. For the most pleasing look, choose drapery fabric that matches the degree of custom in each room.

About The Author: Roger King has been writing articles on home decorating ideas for several years, and has been helping people find and review the best value for interior design solutions. Visit his web site http://www.all-homeinteriordesigns.com for free tips and guides for your home improvement projects

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Roger_King

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A Commentary on Curtains

2008-04-24T06:35:00.000-07:00

Once upon a time, window coverings served more purposes than just being decorative. They were used to block light, cold and heat. With the advent of better window technology, they became less utilitarian, more ornamental window coverings.

For some, the terms “curtains” and “drapes” are used interchangeably, but there is a difference. Drapes are the more formal of the two. They’re generally floor-length and use a rod and hook system. Pulling a cord opens and closes them. Curtains, on the other hand, are more informal. They’re generally on a rod as well, but they’re opened and closed by pulling the fabric into position.

The three types of these window treatments, panel, café and tiered each serve a different purpose in home design.

1) The panel type is simply fabric attached to a tension rod by hooks, rings or tabs. They can hang from a rod at or near the top of the window. They’re generally seen in all rooms in the house, except the kitchen. You might see them paired with blinds or sheers for a more complete look.

2) The café type is hung from a rod that bisects the window horizontally. This way, the upper half of the window is bare. You’ll generally see these in a kitchen or casual dining area.

3) The tiered type is somewhat of a combination between the panel and the cafe. Think of it as a café on the bottom with a valance on top. The valance is made of the same material as the cafe, and tapers down on each side, to overlap the sides of the lower café portion.

There are three basic lengths.

1) The sill length hangs just to the windowsill. It can start at café height or panel height.

2) The below-the-sill length is exactly that: it hangs to just below the lower casing of the window.

3) The floor length hangs just above the floor.

They’re also available in lined or unlined styles. They can serve as a barrier to cold and/or light. They can have a third layer, called an “interlining”, which is designed to help keep out the cold when installed on drafty windows.

Most people think of them as a home design accent, but there are many other uses for window coverings. They help keep the sun and its penetrating rays from adversely affecting furnishings and hardware. They also provide privacy.

Now that you have an idea of these types of window treatments and their individual features and benefits, you can concentrate on choosing the styles and colors that work for you.

Being really interested in window coverings, Kenneth Morris has been editing plenty of publications on this particular subject. From his writings on window coverings and curtains the writer showed his experience in the field.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ken_T._Morris

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Sheer Curtains

2008-04-23T06:36:00.001-07:00

To highlight big windows and soften the sun's rays, a sheer curtain is your best option. Sheers have been used for many years. Besides their practical use, sheers will also add character to your room.

This lightweight curtain can be used alone or with another heavier fabric. The usage depends on the amount of sunlight you want to let into the room, for instance, if you want a warm room with lots of sunlight flooding in, you would use only the sheer curtain. If you decided to go only with sheer, you could make them three times the width of your window. The gathers will give you your privacy.

You could also get a little creative and leave the top part of your window open. You will still have your privacy but at the same time, the sunlight entering from the top of the window will brighten up your room dramatically.

Sheer curtains are the perfect choice if you have indoor plants, especially orchids. This curtain will protect your plants from the sun's rays yet give them enough sunlight to keep them alive.

Sheers are cheap to buy and relatively easy to maintain. Most of them are made of synthetic materials and unless otherwise stated, you can wash them just as you would wash lace curtains.

If your sheers are dirty, soak them overnight (not more than 12 hours) in warm soap water with a couple of spoonfuls of borax or ammonia. After this, rinse them thoroughly to get rid of the soap and hang them out to dry. If you have organdy sheers don not wash them at home. They are very delicate and detergents will harm them. You will have to dry-clean them.

Curtains provides detailed information about curtains, window curtains, kitchen curtains, beaded curtains and more. Curtains is the sister site of Candle Chandeliers.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Max_Bellamy

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What You Should Know About Panel Track Blinds

2008-04-23T06:35:00.001-07:00

If you are looking for an alternative to vertical blinds, consider panel track blinds. These blinds extend to the floor. They are often used to cover a series of windows. They can also be used to manage space or as room accents. They are attractive additions to any room.

Window treatments are increasingly about appearance rather than function. In fact, the treatments often become the focal points of your rooms. The type of window treatment you use often determines the overall style of each room. Panel track blinds are no exception. They add color and style to any room. Use your blinds as accent to your overall decorating scheme.

They are available in a variety of fabrics. You can be very creative in your selection and design of your blinds. You can select several fabrics and change the fabric of your blinds throughout the year. For example, you might desire a specific fabric during the winter months and another during summer. If you like to change décor regularly, panel track blinds are excellent alternatives to traditional blinds and vertical blinds.

Use blinds to control your energy costs. Cellular or honeycomb shades have high energy efficiency ratings. Their light control features allow you to control the light in your rooms. This protects your carpet and furniture against fading. Panel track blinds also establish a specific ambiance in a room. You can darken a room using these blinds. Pleated shades often include an optional liner that helps darken rooms.

Panel track blinds are perfect room dividers. The blinds help define space because they are so visible in a room. Panel track blinds attractively split a room in half. If two people share a home office or bedroom space, these blinds increase privacy and help control sound. Wooden panel track blinds add ambience to studies and libraries. Don't forget your doorways. More people use them instead of vertical blinds for doors.

There are endless uses for panel track blinds. Decide the purpose of each room before settling on an overall decorating style. Select your panel track blinds and create your décor around the blinds. Be creative when designing your rooms. The end result will be fabulous!

Looking for ideas on unique window treatments like panel track blinds? Visit window treatments, to learn about Hunter Douglas blinds and other popular options.

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Silhouette Window Coverings Create A Variety Of Moods

2008-04-23T06:33:00.000-07:00

Silhouette window shadings from Hunter Douglas feature soft fabric vanes suspended between sheer fabric facings. This remarkable window covering not only controls light at the window, but also enhances it - filtering out its damaging effects, while maximizing its potential in interiors by subtly manipulating it. As the light enters the room, it is diffused by the two layers of sheer fabric and gentle curve of the fabric vanes. A warm, clear shadow-free light inside that also softens the view to the outside and obscures the view into the home. The vanes can be tilted for subtle changes in light and closed for privacy.

Needless to say, Silhouette window shadings can create a variety of moods in a room and provide UV protection without compromising the light or view. Kenneth Brown, one of the West Coast's most successful designers, favors this product's clean, tailored look. And, Silhouette window shadings recently got even better. Silhouette® Top-Down / Bottom-Up shadings with the TiltAnywhere™ feature can open from the top down or from the bottom up or both ways at the same time. The TiltAnywhere feature allows the vanes to be tilted when the shading is in any position for a full range of light control and privacy.

In June of 2007, the Silhouette Shade is now available in a 4" vane size which includes a fabric covered headrail due to the box enclosure being slighter bigger than the 2" and 3". This is an excellent choice for a large window with a view. The 4" are only available in the Oringinale and Bon Soir (room darkening) material. This product can also be motorized.

Visit http://www.BlindBuzz.com for more FREE information on Silhouette Shades.

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