|
Suitability:
In selecting fabrics for use as upholstery or drapes the first criterion is of course its suitability in terms of the colour scheme selected by the homemaker. In buying coloured fabrics especially for sunny rooms it is worthwhile finding out how colourfast they will remain after exposure to the sun’s rays. Almost all fabrics will show some degree of fading as time passes, but one needs to be certain that replacements will not be needed too soon.
Texture, Weight and Weave:
The next points to be considered will be the textures, weights and weaves of the materials chosen. Curtains should permit some light to pass through, yet ensure privacy. They need to be woven in a manner that the fabrics will not stretch grossly out of shape once the curtains are put up. Ease of maintenance, especially of curtains, is a very important factor to bear in mind while making purchases.
Colour Fastness:
For colour-fastness to sunlight, the piece of cloth is put between glass pieces, covering half with a thick black paper. The glass-covered cloth is placed in a sunny window for a week. Later the two shades are compared. If no differences can be noticed, the piece will not fade.
Allowances:
In purchasing material, allowances must be made for hems and tailoring at both ends of the curtain, and the need to lengthen curtains after washing must be remembered. Full curtains, with plenty of gathers or pleats look good. For each piece, one needs to buy one and a half times the width of the material.
It is a good practice to choose fabrics for drapery, slipcovers and upholstery together. They can also be checked for matching with the rug or other floor coverings and the walls. A large piece of the materials is to be taken when one goes shopping. Small pieces tend to mislead and cannot give the true effect.
|
Participants