Book Description
An extensive, up-to-date guide to curtain design, from Renaissance to Victorian. 300 sketches of curtain treatments, ranging from valances, tieback and pole designs.
Customer Reviews:
Great Resource for Ideas.......2007-10-11
This book of only sketches is a great resource to jumpstart the creative process. I believe it is intentionally black and white so as not to distract with color and pattern. There are a wealth of ideas categorized so that you can mix and match within a particular category. It is a good inspiration piece from which you can proceed to either commission or design and create your own personal window treatment.
Mainly Classic Designs.......2003-06-17
This book will not teach you how to sew curtains but it will give you loads of ideas for your window treatment.However, it is only ideal for those looking for classical designs since no modern styles are shown.
It also lacks new creative designs, I always felt that each design is familiar to me.
Great source of ideas for elaborate window treatments.......2003-04-20
The book contains line drawings of styles for all the various elements of a window treatment as well as ideas for dealing with different kinds of windows. The book decomposes window treatments into pelmets, valences, etc., etc., etc., with pages of line drawings of styles for each element. Then, it pulls the various elements together into a total look.
I was leant this book, but I found it so helpful I bought my own. It has drawbacks. If you want something simple and/or you plan to make them yourself, this probably isn't the book for you. There are no instructions or measurements of any kind, just the drawings. But if you're working with a decorator who knows a professional, or are a decorator yourself, then this book will help your imagination run wild.
The Curtain Sketchbbok 2 by Wendy Baker.......2002-06-13
This book is really great for any windows. Mostly if you are a interior designer. It gaves you lot of good examples which curtains will good in what rooms with different types of furnitures. This book gaves you something that no one esle has. You will be the first one to have that design in your room before someone esle does
Curtain Sketchbook 2.......2000-03-28
This is a great book if you're looking for unique window treatments. I wanted something everyone else didn't have. It is not a how-to book but the illustrations are very detailed.
Amazon.com
I felt as if I were being told interior design secrets that had been kept from me for years. Curtains have always been something I thought should be left to the experts -- or at least to J.C Penneys. But who better knows what a room needs than yourself? Some of the projects I especially enjoyed were how to make velvet rose tiebacks and a stained glass window shade and how to add painted effects to your curtains with stencils.
Book Description
The best-selling comprehensive guide to creating your own window treatments. Learn to make professional-looking curtains, drapes, blinds, and valances-from choosing the best style to cutting, making, and fitting. Over 35 practical, step-by-step projects.
Customer Reviews:
The BEST yet!.......2007-02-19
I've ordered 6 books, and this was the BEST of the lot! (published by Reader's Digest) Yes, it's a 1994 copyright, but the looks & styles haven't changed that much in 13-years. There are over 200 photos that lend to a myriad of ideas for each room of your home. Each chapter (there are 5 in this 192-page hardcover book) outlines what one needs to consider when deciding on a style/look for windows. I found the book VERY THOROUGH: advice on considerations for window shapes/sizes, room-by-room inspirational ideas, actual step-by-step instructions for creating each style (with sketches) for all levels of sewing ability, how to measure one's windows, photos & descriptions of all types of fabric, trims, & shades and the why/when/purpose of using them; sewing techniques & fabric care, etc.; I could go on and on! There are so many wonderful window treatments, that I wish I had more windows now! I'm certainly not disappointed with this book -- in fact I'm absolutely THRILLED. Had I received this book first, I wouldn't have ordered the other 5!
Nothing ultimate about it.......2007-01-18
Nothing "ultimate" about this book. Gives a few general suggestions and directions, but does not offer anything different or unusual. Pictures and ideas are limited and not worth the cost of the book. You're better off with an Architectural Digest magazine if you're looking for ideas.
Afraid I'm Not That Good With Illustrations.......2006-11-25
I bought four books in my quest to learn to properly sew curtains and drapes. I have been sewing since girlhood, but simple curtains and throw pillows are the farthest I've gotten into home decorating sewing. (I'm a grandma now).
This book only got 2 stars because of the lack of photos, not of finished window treatments, but of projects in the making. I find the illustrations not too good and in most cases too difficult to follow. Guess what? That leaves a person having to figure it out on her own - guess I could have done that without the book!
In fairness to the author, this book did have something the others did not. This book has fairly extensive sections on fabrics, types, colors, usages, care, colors. Also, the back has yardage calculator charts which no other book has. Unfortunately, I would not buy this book just for that.
I think if this book were to be published with photos instead of difficult to follow illustrations, it would be a must-have for my sewing library. As it is, I cannot recommend it.
Great Book!.......2006-05-07
I found this book to helpful in several ways. It has detailed sewing instructions along with great sketches and photos. I have made several of the projects and have been happy with all of the results. I am an experienced sewer, but even a novice could follow these instructions. Unlike another reviewer I do not think it is outdated at all. It is filled with classic, traditional treatments as well as some unique ones, --not half brained or trash styles like you find on Trading Spaces. I love this book and am glad to have it in my collection.
The world's leading window decorating authority.......2005-12-15
I really like this book; it is beautifully illustrated and has some equally beautiful photos. I concur with some other comments that "it is not for the beginner." It is an elegant and well put together book.
Charles Randall
Author of The Encyclopedia of Window Fashions
Book Description
-Ideas to create professional-quality window treatments.
Book Description
Choose from over 40 updated window treatment projects that showcase todays more casual approach, like softer pleats on draperies, looser folds on curtains, and panels that puddle gracefully on the floor. Featuring easy, step-by-step illustrated directions, this new edition covers the entire planning and sewing process, from measuring windows and calculating yardage to installing hardware.
Customer Reviews:
A great book!.......2007-07-27
It's a great book! I would recommend it highly for anyone, either beginners or "professionals". I am very happy with it.
Shows several great ideas!.......2007-07-20
This book shows a great variety of window treatments! Great for getting ideas! You probably want to have a basic background for sewing already if you're using this book.
Sunset Curtaiins.......2007-02-11
The written directions were not always clear. The illustrations did not correspond to the written notations. I was unable to use this book when making my lined drapes. I had to resort to another source.
Excellent book, easy to use even for a beginner.......2006-06-15
An avid do-it-yourselfer that loves to work on decorating projects around the house writes this review. I purchased the first edition 20 years ago, and have been using both editions of the book for some time. I learned to make window treatments from this book. I live in an old Victorian home with 10-foot ceilings. When we first moved in, a long time ago, we couldn't afford to pay to have drapes custom made for 30 windows and no one sold them stock that long, so I decided to do it myself. The first edition of this book was my only reference. Surprisingly, all went well and according to plan.
Since that first necessary experience, I now make window treatments because I enjoy the process. I like to have control over the fabric, the embellishments and the lining and interlining. Since I redecorate periodically I don't want to waste money paying a seamstress to do something that is fairly simple. The beauty of sewing your own window treatments is that most the seams are straight and flat which simplifies the process.
The book covers most window treatments that you will want to tackle. I have found that there are many patterns available in the fabric stores that cover the atypical treatments that are not in this book. If you have a window where you want to let in light but obscure the view try the bottom up shades. They were much easier than I expected them to be.
For those of you that are new to window treatments I will warn you about a couple of things:
1. It takes much longer than you anticipate, probably double what you expect.
2. Measure your windows twice so there are no surprises
3. Always measure your fabric and lining twice before cutting
4. Drapes that are lined and interlined will always hang better and last longer
5. Roman blinds are very simple if you use ring tape
6. Send your window treatments to the dry cleaner to avoid shrinkage
If you have patience and time, you will enjoy the process.
Not for Beginners.......2005-04-14
I found this book to be very difficult to follow. The writers assumed a certain amount of prior knowledge of both "sewing jargon" and technique. The window coverings were also quite complicated. For a true beginner, I would recommend "Window Basics" by Better Homes and Gardens.
Book Description
The most comprehensive DIY window book on the market
The Complete Photo Guide to Window Treatments makes it easy to choose and construct today's most popular window treatments - 20 styles of valances, swags, and cornices; 20 styles of curtains and draperies; plus 10 types of window shades. Room photographs show each style in a variety of decorating styles, fabrics, and hardware. Each project has step-by-step instructions from beginning to end: measuring the window, cutting the fabric with confidence, sewing or constructing the project, and installing the treatment the professional way. Over 500 how-to photographs and diagrams make it easy to have professional results. This is the big book of DIY window treatments!
Customer Reviews:
Anyone can do it!.......2000-06-06
This book is an invaluable source for fresh window dressing ideas, as well as old favorites, that can be easily constructed using the clear, detailed instructions. The drawings and photos really clear up any confusion, too. I loved the "materials list" because it usually reminded me of some item I would have forgotten at the fabric store! Even though I have sewn many window treatments, the "Tips" always solved some problem before it messed up my project! I highly recommend this book for both the novice and the professional who is looking for some fresh ideas.
Anyone can do it!.......2000-06-06
This book is an invaluable source for fresh window dressing ideas, as well as old favorites, that can be easily constructed using the clear, detailed instructions. The drawings and photos really clear up any confusion, too. I loved the "materials list" because it usually reminded me of some item I would have forgotten at the fabric store! Even though I have sewn many window treatments, the "Tips" always solved some problem before it messed up my project! I highly recommend this book for both the novice and the professional who is looking for some fresh ideas.
Book Description
The style options for contemporary sheers, curtains, and blinds have never been more exciting. Mary Fox Linton explains how to use interesting fabrics and unusual accessories to update window looks and suggests fresh new ideas for fashionable trends like layering sheers and curtains with blinds and using shutters and screens. Perfect for anyone who is tired of swags and tails and prefers a clean and modern look, Window Style provides beautiful inspiration for creating up-to-date window treatments for every room in the home.
Customer Reviews:
Very Informative.......2002-03-13
As an ultra-beginner, I learned a lot from this book and was inspired by the pictures. I have made three different style window treatments based on what this book taught me. The instructions are easy to follow and the photos are beautiful. I have bought other more "technical" books on window treatments but I think this one has more up-to-date styles, and simpler instructions and everything I have done has turned out fabulously.
Disappointing.......2001-05-03
After purchasing this book, I was dissapointed to see very few pictures and ideas for everyday homes. I was expecting to find basic window covering ideas for drapes and valances. This book was more on the artsy side as opposed to the practicle decorating side.
Book Description
A room with a view becomes all the more artful with the perfect window treatment. Better Homes and Gardens Window Treatment Decorating Ideas brims with information, both pretty and practical, for every room in the house. You'll be inspired by the lavish images throughout the book250 color photographs in allwhether your style tends to be casual or traditional, eclectic or more defined. You'll even learn how to camouflage not-so-beautiful windows. Of equal weight, however, is function. This comprehensive resource also covers important considerations such as privacy, light control, airflow, and traffic patterns. Individual chapters focus on types of treatments: draperies and curtains; shades, shutters, and blinds; top treatments; and combinations. A primer on fabric selection, window styles, and installation offers further guidance on planning and executing window treatments appropriate to various types of architecture.
Customer Reviews:
Great Idea Book.......2005-12-07
I really wanted something besides standard drapes in our new home. This book contains a wealth of ideas with photos showing the whole room, not just the window. The colorful photos are quite large (unlike the cramped decorating pictures squeezed into the magazine) and sometimes even a double-page spread.
The photo captions explain the decorator's ideas, use of color, framing a view, etc. plus DESIGN TIPS are scattered through the book.
I found some beautiful ideas for my book room, for the dining room, and for the guest room. The variety shown ensures that no matter what your style preferences are, you'll find something here.
Amazon.com
Extensive, large, and exquisitely photographed, this handsome volume lives up to its promise of "carv[ing] a clear path through the endless possibilities presented by a naked window." Taking into account all sorts of window styles and room types, design journalist Clifton-Mogg explores many approaches to window treatments (as well as related applications, such as room dividers, wall hangings, and bed draperies), explaining how to choose curtains, shades, blinds, shutters, and valances to complement almost any type of decor. From dark velvet opulence to sheer white simplicity, there are ideas galore. Before you hire a professional to clothe your windows, or even if you have the skills to execute the construction yourself, find your visual inspiration here first. --Amy Handy
Book Description
The new edition of Caroline Clifton-Mogg's classic book, which has sold more than 80,000 copies, is an inexhaustible source of ideas, enabling you to design window treatments with confidence and flair. It has all the information you need to design, make, purchase, and install curtains, shades, and sheers for every size and style of window. There is also advice on matching the fabric to the furnishings in a room. -A revises and updated edition with dozens of new photographs. -A chapter on Practicalities explains the basics of curtain- making.
Customer Reviews:
An inspired and inspiring book!.......2000-10-22
I absolutely LOVE this book. I hardly ever read the text in decorating books--preferring to absorb the pictures and captions--but I actually read this one and learned a lot about the topic. Now I open up this book, look at a few pages, and then feel inspired to go and try my own take on some of the ideas shown. It gets me going for a weekend filled with projects!! One of the best decorating books I've bought (and, guiltily, I've got quite a stash.)
Curtains/A design Resource book.......2000-06-21
This book is great for anyone searching for ideas for a clean modern sophisticated interior. The design concepts are tailored for the transitional to contemporary home. It is not a resource for curtain construction.
Great Visual Ideas.......1999-07-12
I thought the book had some really great ideas for window dressing but as an amateur trying to achieve the looks on offer, felt the instructions on making could be made easier. I had to find another book with easier intructions and follow the two books in order to make my curtains!
Don't waste your time if youre really interested in curtains.......1999-06-24
This book is not for someone who truly wants a resource book for making curtains. There's not a lot to this book, just some 70's style window treatments, no real substance. It's pretty to look at, once, then sit on the coffee table.
lots of pictures; little instruction.......1999-03-22
There are many well-done photographs of rooms and windows, but not enough detail and instruction for a Design resource.
Books:
- The Garden Primer
- The Gardener's Year
- The Glass Menagerie
- The Quilter's Directory of Embellishments: 40 Step-by-Step Decorative Techniques from Applique and Embroidery to Tassels and Trims
- The Secret Garden: Dawn to Dusk in the Astonishing Hidden World of the Garden
- The Secret Garden (HarperClassics)
- Trilliums
- Tropical Interiors
- Victorian Lace Today
- White Christmas: Decorating and Entertaining for the Holiday Season
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