A Tip for New Draperies

So your new draperies have arrived. We understand... the first thing you want to do is play with them, making sure they operate and appear just like you expected when you ordered them. Today's tip, however, will explain why you should, instead, heed your installer's advice!

(If you simply cannot resist moving them, we suggest asking your installer to show you their operation before he steams and sets the panels.)

A Tip for New Draperies:

When the drapery technician installs your draperies, after steaming, (if necessary), he might tie the ends, as pictured above, and ask you to leave that tie in place for several days. Doing so will help your draperies look their best.

Why? Because most fabric has a tendency to retain it's shaping over time. In the trade, folks call that memory. This is especially important with stationary drapery panels, as it helps the fabric to retain the fold of the pleats, all the way to the floor. You'll also find memory useful in other window treatments, such as roman and balloon shades.

At Bernard Interiors, we recommend a minimum of 2 days, and as much as 5 days, if that's possible.

Certain fabrics will develop memory with more ease than others, though, so it's important to trust the instructions of your drapery specialist. For the draperies above, our technician recommended 5 days.

These beautiful panels are goblet pleated, using Pindler's scrumptious Douppioni Travertine silk, and have been showcased on striking rod sets from The Finial Company.