Anyone into custom draperies?

[Custom Draper]

Hi there,

I design and sell custom draperies on-line, primarily silk dupioni. I noticed that most folks on these threads are mainly into apparel and fashion sewing and wondering who may be an expert on home decor fabrics.

I have clients who want to use silk for kitchen windows and wondering if I this is a wise or risky choice.

Signed,
Custom Draper
www.customdraper.com

[LindaK.]

I would'nt! Just think of all the grease in a kitchen and silk should'nt be washed.
LindaK.

[Helen Downunder]

I've been making custom made soft furnishings in Australia for the past 12 years. I wouldn't use silk in the kitchen, Maybe you could use a cotton fabric that has the appearance of silk instead. I've used a fabric like this and result was stunning. I used in a child's bedroom in a roman blind. I was easier to work with and also easier to clean.
" Helen downunder"

[Dee]

Helen downunder, maybe you can tell me how to line drapes.I am not sure about the top,if you should sew it with a 2'' seam, right sides together than flipit over and turn your sides in. Hems are done and lining is 1'' shorter. I will be useing Cafe Clip Rings. Will I need stiffing at the top where the clips will hold it. Dee

[Helen Downunder]

Hi Dee

If I were making lined cutains I would hem the sides and the bottom of the curtains and lining separately.
Then cut the lining off at the finished length.
On the wrong side of the face fabric make a chalk line for the finished length.
Line up the lining top cut edge with this line ( Wrong sides together) and fold the face fabric over and make a hem sewing through both thicknesses.
I don't think you would need stiffening in the top unless you are using a sheer fabric.
Hope you can follow these directions and good luck

Helen Downunder

[tinycreations]

I know I'm a little late in a reply, but I haven't posted in a long time, and just remember about this forum.

I have a home business sewing for High-End Interior Designers. I mainly do pillows, cushions, valances, and some drapies.

I would never use silk in the kitchen. Cotton fabric is the best on windows in kitchen with all the grease. You can taken them down and wash cotton. If you do chair cushions I usualy use outdoor fabric.

Liz
Tiny Creations