What's a Stack Back? Did you just call me a Dobby? Some of the industry terms can be confusing. We hope this informs, educates and clarifies some of the terminologies.
DRAPERY & CURTAIN CONSTRUCTION:
Double Fold Hem: On most drapes and curtains, the hem is folded double. Why would we do that? The double fold gives extra weight to the drape which will allow it to hang better and more evenly. The double fold also eliminates the cut line or folded-over raw edge which could show through some fabrics. Our house style is a 4" double hem.
Drapery Header (also known as Top Style): The style of pleats (or lack of pleats) created at the top of the curtain where it is hung onto a rod is known as the drapery header. The header style is chosen depending on the look and function of the drape you are going for. There are so many options for Drapery headers that we put them all together in one spot.
Leading Edge: The operational edge of the drapery panel where the two panels meet or overlap in the center. Sometimes the leading edge is also embellished with banding. The non-leading edges are often tacked to the rod or wall to keep them stationary.
Stacking Space (or Stack Back): Stacking refers to the distance needed for drapes in an open state on either side of the window. When measuring for drapery, you want to allow enough stacking space so the drapes do not obscure the window when they are open. Heavy or extra full fabrics need more stacking space to clear the window. Our house style is 10" of stacking space but will be adjusted according to window placement and fabric selection. Visually, extra stacking space makes your windows look wider.
Top Style (also known as Drapery Header): The style of pleats (or lack of pleats) created at the top of the curtain where it is hung onto a rod is known as the drapery header. The header style is chosen depending on the look and function of the drape you are going for. There are so many options for top styles that we put them all together in one spot.
HARDWARE:
Traverse Track (also Channel Track): Traverse track refers to a style of drapery hardware that has a track built-in. The drapery pins are attached to carriers that glide effortlessly in the track. Often the hardware is designed so the track is discreet and looks like a standard drapery rod. There are also track options that are not decorative but designed to be hidden behind a valance (or living their best lives exposed in an industrial-style space).
FABRIC:
COM Fabric: This is just a short-form used to refer to Customer's Own Material. Our customers supply their own fabric for us to whip into a gorgeous drape or pillow. If you need help sourcing fabric, we have relationships with many suppliers and can procure it directly for your order in most cases. We also have a fabric consultation service that you may be interested in.
Dobby Fabric: A woven fabric that is produced on a traditional Dobby loom, characterized by small geometric patterns and extra texture in the cloth. Dobby usually features a simple, repeated geometric pattern.
High-Performance Fabric: Performance fabrics come in two main variations: they are made with synthetic fibres like Olefin which do not absorb stains or they are chemically treated to repel stains. Most high-performance fabrics have a high rub count making them suitable for heavy use upholstery.
Memo: A memo is a swatch of fabric. A small sample with details about the fabric attached. It's a very good idea to touch and feel your fabric and to see it in the light of your home before making a final decision. We do not carry our own fabric but we can help you source memos for your project.
Olefin: Also known as Polypropylene, is a synthetic fibre made from recycled plastic. The benefits of Olefin are that the fibres can be made into a durable stain-resistant fabric that feels soft to the touch.
Railroad Stripe: When you hear the term "railroaded" it usually refers to a stripe that runs horizontally across the width of the fabric from selvage to selvage. It's important to consider the direction of the stripe for drapery panels.
Selvage: The finished edge that runs along both sides of fabric lengthwise when it comes off the bolt. It keeps the fabric from unraveling. In woven fabric, selvages are the edges that run parallel to the warp. Many home decor fabrics are 50-54" wide and the selvage can be found on either end of that width. Selvages will be removed and will not be found in any finished pieces.
Ticking Stripe, Ticking Fabric: Traditionally, ticking was a cotton or linen that was very tightly woven to prevent down feathers from poking through the fabric. It was used to cover mattresses and bed pillows. Ticking fabric was most often woven with a signature 3-way stripe that is replicated on many textiles. Now, it may be referred to as a ticking stripe, but may not be a true feather-busting fabric, however, it is a timeless design staple. Today, the functional ticking fabric used on feather pillow inserts are generally a very tight woven white cotton or polyester.