Monday, March 2, 2009

Soft Treatments


Soft treatments have become more popular in the last few years. In fact, "curtains" and "draperies" led the key word search to http://www.bestbuyblindsinc.com/ two months out of the last six. Based on that, I thought it was a good time to describe our soft treatment offering and what we are seeing as being popular.


Mainly simple, monochrome fabrics (linen, silk and cotton) are popular. These are being done in pinched pleat on rings for the most part for more formal areas. More casual areas are seen with rings and fabric loops. Metal rods are the most popular (oil rubbed bronze and satin nickel). Although, we have seen some bamboo rods in more casual areas. In addition to the drapery panels, we have seen some layering with fabric roman shades underneath or perhaps on adjacent doors.


Our offering utilizes around 150 fabrics. The selection of fabrics is made by consultation with the major textile companies identifying their biggest sellers. This offering represents 80% of the actual usage. By limiting the offering to 150 fabrics, our fabricator is able to stock the fabrics more efficiently. This reduces the price and lead time to our clients. Lead times are in the 3-4 week average compared to 6-10 for custom work rooms. Our prices are often half that of a custom work room. It is certainly worth a look.