Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers

Endless Window Treatment Options

When choosing a window treatment measure all windows. Don't assume that every window in a room is the identical size. There are many ways to achieve a clean, simple, uncluttered window treatment without losing any of the positive decorating aspects. Vertical blinds come in a wide variety of weaves and colors that give them new dimension. Levolor sells vertical blinds in fabric as well as aluminum.

Sleek and Sophisticated
Miniblinds come in over 200 colors as well as two-tones so you can match them to your wall color or pick up one of the accent colors from the fabric in the room.

Wood-Slat Blinds
Horizontal wooden blinds have a tropical look and enable you to control the light as well as air circulation. They come in 2 1/2-, 3- and 4-in. slats. They have a wonderful "Casablanca" look. Paint the window frame white for a dramatic statement.

Custom Shades
Plain and patterned custom shades come in exciting patterns and colors as well as designs. Create your own custom look with the addition of scallops, tailored braid, tassels, pulls or eyelet and ruffles for a softer touch.

Child's Room
Change the look of a child's room with patterned shades of bright-colored scenes, then repaint the window frame to match. Though easy to care for, it will set the stage for fun. Fill the space with more lively color to match the scene on the shades.

Pleated Shades
Made from fabrics that are light and pretty, they also provide temperature control. Kirsch makes insulated Verosol shades and Louver Drape pleated shades reflect and absorb much of the sun's radiation. As a window's only covering, pleated shades add a clean, crisp look that is quite contemporary. Used as a layer with another treatment they become traditional, as an undercurtain, which also makes them practical. The easy installation makes it possible to transform an existing treatment for a new layered look.

Latest In Layers
Rather than one pair of draperies, it's more stylish to use two or add curtains over a shade. If you already have miniblinds, change the total look with an overtreatment of draperies.

Multi-Design
Layering gives you options for two different window treatments and multiplies the design potential. Use miniblinds for summer, then add warmth with an overtreatment for cooler months. Or, combine side panels and a full valance with a cafe curtain. Remove the side panels, but keep the cafe and valance when you want a change.

Copyright Leslie Linsley, author
Reprinted with permission, HouseNet, Inc.

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