Carol's Custom Draperies & Interiors

Could It Be?

2011-10-11T05:12:00.001-07:00

Do I see signs of Fall in the air? It seems that cooler weather is on its way, and before you know it the leaves will be turning to display the beautiful colors of the season. It is also a sign for us to think about readying our homes for the soon to be Holiday Season.

The colors of the season can be brought into the décor of our homes in so many different ways. From the beautiful reds, oranges, greens and plums of the fruit on the table to the deep rust, pumpkin and cranberry in the pillows and throws on the sofa and beds – we can pull the colors of fall into any room.

As the days grow shorter we can bring light into rooms by strategically placing lamps on tables and shelves. A little candlelight here and there will add ambiance to the room as well.

A welcoming wreath on the front door is a must. Fill it with beautifully colored leaves, acorns and gourds. And, don’t stop at the front door with these colorful bounties. They can be displayed on the fireplace mantel, bookcases and tables.
As Thanksgiving approaches think about displaying pumpkins on the front porch or beautifully arranged on the dining room table. Add the smell of the season with candles in scents of Pumpkin Pie Spice, Vanilla, Cinnamon Spice,
Walnut, Banana Nut Bread and Cranberry Spice to name a few.
The cooler weather draws us to our patios also. Why not adorn the tables with trays of fall foliage and color.

Candles are also nice to add just a hint of romance. By displaying these items on a tray they can easily be moved inside in case of inclement weather. Then they can be moved back outside as soon as the weather clears.

Don’t be in a hurry to bring out the Christmas tree just yet. We will talk about that next month. Enjoy the beauty of nature and all that she has to offer in the colorful autumn of the year.

Not quite sure how to pull your fall décor together. We are here to help you!

Give us a call at 940-565-8337 to schedule your appointment or visit our showroom on the historic downtown Denton Square. We are here to help you with all of your decorating needs. We are a full line Hunter Douglas Gallery dealer as well as interior decorators. We have all you need in window fashions and decorating ideas of your home.

And as always - Happy Decorating!!

Photo courtesy of Polished * Plum

Decorating Is NOT A Mystery

2011-09-03T08:14:00.000-07:00

There are only subjective rules when it comes to decorating. Many confuse this fact by believing that there is a “right way” to decorating a space. What is light and open to one may feel hollow and empty to another. What seems cozy and “lived in” to another might seem cluttered and unsafe to you. Wherever you see yourself, what matters is the courage to work those realities into your design plans.

Creating a room that looks and feels good is not a mysterious process. The point is not to adhere to rules or follow fashion, but rather to find what you like and incorporate it.

When putting together a room, start by understanding a few principles of composition: space - defining space and using it; color - determining mood and function; pattern - for character, depth and visual interest; texture - to give the space its “feel.”

Space is the essential defining consideration of a room. How much is there? How little? What is the quality of the space? What is the function of the space. Mirrors are magic when it comes to changing perception’s about a rooms space. Placed strategically, mirrors create the illusion of a larger space.

Color/Pattern: Color is one of the most emotional subjects in decorating and is very personal. Tradition has taught us that only certain colors are appropriate for certain spaces. But when coloring your world, have no fear; The rules are few and the rewards are many. When deciding a color scheme, consider what furnishings and art pieces will be used. Use your fabrics, china and art to help you. Pattern, with color, is one of the most basic design tools. No matter how subtle, patterns can bring a room to life adding character, depth and visual interest.

Texture gives the space its “feel.” All of our decorative treatments and objects in a room - even the amount of stuffing in the upholstery - add to the atmosphere of the room. Fabrics add softness; stone and marble convey a sense of weight and permanence and improves over time; Brass, steel and wrought iron supply hardness and edge.

Great rooms begin with how you feel about being in them. Successful decorating involves making rooms feel as good as they look.

A home is really an attitude and a mind-set that is created physically by the choices you make. Your home should provide a sense of belonging and be a refuge that calms you, pleases you and makes of you no demands.

Tip: Patience - The challenge in decorating your new home is likely to be both emotional and physical. Take your time in making your choices and selecting your new possessions. Do not feel pressured to buy impulsively just “to fill in a space.” It’s your home you’re building, not a showroom.

Not sure how to pull your thoughts and decorating desires together? Give Carol’s a call and we can help you. Ask for me, Carol, or one of my designers to help you. Our telephone number is 940-565-8337. I also invite you to visit my website at carolscustomdraperies.hdwfg.com.

And as always – Happy Decorating!

A Green Night's Sleep

2011-07-31T08:13:00.000-07:00

Bella Notte Linens

When we talk about green we think in terms of sustainable products, improved air quality and increased energy efficiency. But, how much do we really think about green in relationship to our sleep environment?

The average person spends at least one-third of their life sleeping on a mattress. Many mattresses are made with flame-retardant chemicals and petroleum-based, pesticide-filled materials. As we toss and turn during the course of our night’s sleep harmful dust, toxins and allergens can be released into the bedroom air.

How does one go about choosing a “green” mattress? There are top-of-the line companies who offer eco-friendly mattresses made of 100% bio-degradable, natural tree-rubber latex, organic essentials oils and plant extracts, pure wool as well as wool and cotton blends. However, these can cost thousands of dollars.

Conventional manufacturers such as Sealy, Simmons and Serta, are jumping on the green bandwagon using recycled steel coils and organic cotton materials. For healthy basics, look for soy based mattresses and organic cotton, wool or kapok pillow inserts and ask for 100% fibers as well as verifying that your purchase has not been treated with chemical fire retardants.

But, there are other ways to go organic in the bedroom without changing your mattress. Simply modify your sleeping accessories – sheets, mattress covers, pillows – in environmentally friendly ways. Sheet sets by Sferra Brothers offers Egyptian Cotton Percale sheets made in Italy are a luxurious choice but can be a bit pricy. Pottery Barn and Land’s End offer a somewhat more reasonably priced product. And what about Bamboo? Bamboo sheets are fantastic for a variety of reasons. While their pure cleanliness makes them ideal for use with people with allergies, their soft elegance offers only the greatest of sleeping comfort.

Now, let’s take this “green” initiative a step further and consider the pajama’s we wear as well as the carpet, window coverings and accessories that we use to decorate the bedroom. Again, we should try to use low-impact fabrics (textiles with a minimal impact on the environment over their entire life cycle), non-toxic dyes as well as manufacturers in the USA.

A completely natural bedroom can offer a marked improvement for chemically sensitive people. Relief from symptoms such as headaches, stiffness and allergies have been reported by many who have made their bedrooms more eco-friendly.

Want to know how you can create an eco-friendly bedroom for yourself? We have many “green” fabrics in our offerings and have partnered with Hunter Douglas Window Coverings to give you a better choice.

Give me a call at 940-565-8337 to schedule your appointment or visit my showroom on the historic downtown Denton Square. We are here to help you with all of your decorating needs. We are a full line Hunter Douglas Gallery dealer as well as interior decorators. We have all you need in window fashions and decorating ideas of your home.

And as always - Happy Decorating!!

2011-06-22T05:11:00.000-07:00

Hunter Douglas is pleased to announce the new Gallery Dealer Advisory Council members. As a new member of this Council I look forward to interacting with Gallery Dealers with their suggestions.

Follow this link to read the profiles of the new members.

http://alliance.hunterdouglas.com/SiteBuilder/sites/e0dce448-8655-4f40-9037-5d6c446ed959/images/GAC_may11.pdf

Outdoor Living

2011-06-21T10:53:00.000-07:00

Yes, I know it is hot and your thoughts are probably far from lounging in an outdoor living space. But, let’s face it, we all love to entertain with a bar-b-que. And, if you have a pool – that makes it even more inviting. So, let’s talk “dress up” for your outdoor living space.

The first thing you should do is to create a visual centerpiece. That can be done with anything from a strategically placed furniture arrangement, a fireplace, a water feature, or a combination. Spa and pool designer Skip Howard suggests that your outdoor living space might include all the basic elements of nature: fire, water, sky and earth. In his designs, Howard uses “complementary contrasts of the soothing sound of water with the comforts of fire and light, flavoring them with natural elements in the surface of the different elements.”

Now, let’s take it a step further and bring in some interests with brightly colored fabrics. Sunbrella Fabrics has many beautiful fabrics available for cushions and draperies that makes it difficult to keep them outside. You might think about bringing them inside to spruce up a playroom. But, that’s another article.

Yes, I said draperies – Outside! How fun is that! I would suggest Grommet-top drapery panels to drape the columns of your patio. Grommet panels are easy to pull and less likely to be damaged by the wind. Drapery hardware companies are including outdoor rods for your space in their offerings. You don’t have to worry about damages from the extreme heat or cold. Included in their selections are the same beautiful finishes and finials as you choose for your inside windows.

Your furniture can be of rustic wooden design or you can select the more sleek design of iron. Add another element to the design to include glass. All are beautiful!

Showcase your furniture on a rug specifically designed for the patio.

Do I have you excited yet? Want to know how you can create your outdoor living space? We are full of great ideas to make your outdoor living space a place to be no matter what time of year it is.

Give me a call to schedule your appointment or visit my showroom on the historic downtown Denton Square. We are here to help you with all of your decorating needs. We are a full line Hunter Douglas Gallery dealer as well as interior decorators. We have all you need in window fashions and decorating ideas of your home.

And as always - Happy Decorating!!

Patio Pizazz – Sandee Champ, owner of Unique Outdoor Exteriors

IWCE Vision 2011

2011-05-04T12:34:00.000-07:00

Wow!! I have just returned from IWCE Vision 2011 in Las Vegas. What a great show. The seminars were very informative and the exhibit hall introduced me to a number of new suppliers as well as renew friendships and associations with those I deal with on a regular basis.

Thank you to Grace McNamara for once again putting on a fantastic show. We had the privilege of hearing Timothy Corrigan, named as one of Architectural Digest's 100 World's Top Designers and Architects. His work is renowned throughout the world. Oh, what great ideas he had.

We also were entertained by Kathryn M. Ireland as another of our Keynote speakers. Kathryn spoke to us and showed us a slideshow of her latest book, "Summer's in France." Kathryn generously signed her new book for those who purchased them.

We were also privileged to tour the Las Vegas Design Center. We took a quick tour of the facility and then were welcomed to Jackie Von Tobel's beautiful showroom, Postcards Home LTD. Jackie's signature fabrics and pillows were showcased throughout the showroom. For more information and to view Jackie's designs visit her website at jackievontobel.com

It was a great show. I came home with my mind overflying with great ideas.

Want to hear more about my trip and how you can benefit from what I learned. Call me at 940-565-8337 or visit my showroom at 112 W. Oak Street in downtown Denton, TX.

"Love Is All Around Us"

2011-02-08T11:18:00.000-08:00

February is the month of Love! So, let’s talk about what we can do to make our homes a place we love to live in.

Your home should be a reflection of you. If you love beautiful artwork then display it prominently throughout your home. I know people who change their artwork from time to time. Not that they purchase new artwork to replace old. They simply store their artwork and bring it out when they want to enjoy other pieces that they have.

Do you have a favorite color? Why not use it throughout in your accessories. Decorative accent pillows and throws are a great way to bring your favorite color into your decor. And flowers! Not only can you display color in your floral arrangements but you can enthusiastically display the flowers that you love! Change your arrangements seasonally – you may have a favorite spring flower that is different from your favorite autumn flower.

Bring in the scents that you love also. This can be done with candles or scented oils. Place them strategically throughout your home to enjoy the smells from room to room.

Paint is another easy way to bring in color that you love. No need to paint every wall. Paint an accent wall that will create a warm and cozy feeling for you in the winter and a fresh enlightening atmosphere in the spring. Make sure when choosing a color you purchase a tester sample to verify the color is what you are looking for.

Windows are another area to display our love for color and art. Choose a printed fabric that brings fond memories and color to your thoughts. Accent with luscious trims and tassels. The sky is the limit. Let your imagination be your guide.

Have you explored any model homes lately? There are so many ideas that you can draw from the designers of these homes. Check them out!

When we choose furnishings and fabrics, wallpaper and paint, functional objects and decorative accessories to use and enjoy, we give life to our surroundings and so bring greater meaning to our lives. It is then that our home becomes a vital extension of who we are and what we love.

Denton Texas 2010 Auction For The Arts

2010-10-17T13:32:00.000-07:00

Each year the Arts Guild of Denton, TX (TAG) presents their "Auction For The Arts" fundraising event. What a wonderful event! I have been involved with this event for a number of years. Money from the event is used to fund grants for applicants throughout the city. If you are in the vicinity of Denton, TX on November 13th please join us at 6 pm for wine, beer, hors d'oeuvres and desserts. Consider this your invitation.

August in Florida

2010-08-18T06:16:00.000-07:00

I have finally found a week to relax, enjoy family and absorb the beauty of Destin Florida. What a beautiful place! The surf - the sand between the toes - the luscious green grass (far cry from the heat-stressed grasses and flowers of Texas) and even the refreshing rains we have had. My goal is to be able to take home my experiences from this week and draw on them as I slide back into my daily routine. Wish me luck.

Now, what can I see in this beautiful place to share with you?! Nature is always an inspiring palette. Every color we see and use in our surroundings are taken from the colors we see around us. From light green to forest dark greens and khaki, all shades look fabulous and add a lovely touch of color to any decor.

Sometimes we feel that brown is a bit depressing - dull and drab! But wait!! Browns look fabulous in any decor - from caramel to dark brown and bronze. So inspire yourself by using these wonderful earthtones.

According to fashion critics it seems that "red has a great influence in fashion especially this 2010 fall/winter season as it has been present on almost every fashion presentation. The vivid red coloration helps create a joyful and warm feel which paired with the seasonal cool colors, creates a perfect balance which enchants the eyes." Why not translate this into our home fashions? Add a touch of red in pillows, throws, florals and decorative accessories.

Other colors such as yellow, gray, dark blue, beige are also popular so make sure to incorporate these colors into your home decor.

Yes, I have found all of these colors and more in looking around me this week in Florida. And, yes, I will take them home with me to share with my clients. I hope that you will be inspired by my suggestions of color. Have fun - afterall - Life is like a day at the beach!!

It is summer in Texas!!

2010-07-18T19:07:00.000-07:00

If you aren't from Texas and haven't been here in the last couple of weeks, we have finally reached our summer! The temps are over 100. Can it be July already! I have been so busy trying to keep up with myself that I have neglected my business Social Networking. Since I last posted I have been to Spain, France and Italy. After missing our boat in Barcelona we finally caught up with it in Naples. On the way we had the privelege of meeting 14 other people in the same "boat." They, too, missed the ship. But the trip was great and the sights were spectacular!

One day after arriving back in Texas I traveled to South Carolina for my brother-in-laws funeral. I'm glad I was able to spend some time with my sister Beth and family during this time.

The summer is fast fleeting! Business is great! We continue to grow in our offerings. I am also pleased to announce the addition of Samatha Anderson to our staff. I invite you to visit my website at carolscustomdraperies.hdwfg.com. There you will find pictures of our offerings. If you would like to receive our eNewsletter please email me at carcollins@msn.com and request that you be put on the email list.

Fresh Look for Office Serving Veterans

2010-06-03T08:28:00.000-07:00

I was recently honored by the City of Denton and the Denton County Veterans Association for work I did in their Service office. Below is the article that appeared in the Denton Record Chronicle. I am deeply touched by the appreciation I received from the City and the Veterans Association as well as individuals who came by or called to thank me.

Article as written by Bj Lewis (Staff Writer for the DRC)
"With the addition of some new furniture and decor, the Denton County Veterans Service Office is a warmer place, officials say.

Roger Cortez, the county's veterans service director, said donations from local businesses have improved the atmosphere in the office and allowed more work with veterans to be done.

Before, the office had a large open window and steel chairs that dated from the 1970s, Cortez said.

It made it so sterile, like being in a hospital or the emergency room, he said.

To fix that, Cortez called around town to find someone to put drapes over the window, but was discouraged a little when job estimates came in at $2000. Then he spoke to Carol Collins of Carol's Custom Draperies and Interiors, and she donated her time and resources to make the drapes for the office.

"It was my pleasure to give back to those who have so courageously served our country," Collins said. "God has so blessed me and my family. It is my privilege to share."

The new drapes made an impact on veterans, many of whom did not care for the open look the office had before.

We deal with a lot of veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, Cortez said. It's already hard enough, to come in here and not feel invited...Some people walked right back out. The ones that walked out are the ones who need help the most.

Cortez said he noticed veterans have been a lot less tense when visiting the center since it was redecorated.

Another donation came from Walmart in the form of $1000 that Cortez used to purchase a flat-screen television now hung on a wall.

In addition, a veteran donated a stereo speaker system to make it easier to hear the TV during the busier times in the office.

Cortez said he was moved by the donations, especially in light of the financial hardships being faced by individuals and businesses right now.

It's a sacrifice these days because people don't have the money, he said. I thought it was special.

Denton County commissioners will recognize the contributions of Collins and Walmart at their meeting on Tuesday.

Vision 10

2010-05-13T03:15:00.000-07:00

The design industry is an ever changing industry. What was exquisite 10 years ago will most likely be obselete in another 10 years. Why, because our likes and dislikes change just as rapidly. That is one reason that I attend design trade shows and read design magazines and books. I am attending the "window covering industry's annual exposition and educational conference - Vision 10 where the industry comes together to share information about new products, business opportunities and success strategies." There are designers from all over the country here to understand where design is headed and how we, as designers, can best meet our cliets needs. Wednesday was filled with seminars from Color Associations and Psycholoogy to Future Vision. The seminar speakers were excellent and very well informed about their topics.

Now it is Thursday morning. I look forward to the opening of the Exhibit Hall where hundreds of companies will have their latest inovations for the deisgn industry.

Watch for more as I assemilate new ideas to share with each of you.

Spring and Design

2010-04-11T14:56:00.000-07:00

Wow, have you looked out the window the last few days? What beautiful sights there are in nature. What a Creator we have! From the beautiful pink Cherry Blossoms in Central Park to the Killdeer sitting on her nest with four eggs out my back door - life is new and refreshing.

Take a look around the inside of your home. We've had a long, cold winter. Has your interior suffered from the bleakness of outside? Ok, now is the time to take inspiration from the beauty of spring! Spruce up a coffee table with fresh spring flowers - pick a couple of brightly colored throw pillow to go on your sofa. You can also add the fragrance of spring by purchasing candles in scents of the season. A bright, new coat of paint or wallpaper in the kitchen, family room or any room that needs sprucing up will bring a refreshing atmosphere to enjoy.

There are so many exciting ways to make your interiors freshing and exciting for spring. I have many wonderful and exciting ideas to share with you. Please give me a call at 940-565-8337. And as always! Happy Decorating.

-Make a big Design Statement with Window Coverings!

2010-03-08T16:06:00.000-08:00

Designers and savvy consumers are turning to window fashions as the #1 home improvement and interior design product that can make the biggest difference in their home. Not only can window fashions transform a room from a design standpoint, they can create atmosphere by controlling light and privacy as well as noise.

Today, the products and design styles available to enhance your windows are endless. From simple and contemporary to dramatic and elegant, custom window coverings are the single most important element to make your house a home. They “finish” the room by highlighting the all-important window and they provide a variety of functions that no other home furnishings product can. What other interior design element can affect light control, privacy, and energy conservation beautifully and efficiently?

Providing the right solutions for your windows can save you hundreds of dollars in energy costs – both in the cold of winter and in the heat of summer - stopping that unwelcome heat transfer. Also, UV protection for custom window treatments protects your valuable dining table, fabrics or your wood floors from sun damage.

Custom window coverings are the final touch to transform the rooms of your home. They are that dramatic accessory that finishes an outfit: the right earrings and shoes with the black dress; the perfect bag and scarf for your appointment. Each custom window fashion is specific to you, allowing you to express yourself and create a look all your own.

Leaving your windows “naked” is a design no-no in most cases; the result is a room that feels cold and unfinished, while a "dressed" window gives a room a warm and finished feeling. Beautiful one of kind custom draperies and window coverings will add the finishing look to your home.

As a Window Fashions Certified Professional (WFCP) Expert, I am ready to help you determine the appropriate window fashions for your style and function needs. My staff and I invite you to give us a call at 940-565-8337 to make your appointment to discuss your window coverings needs. We have all you need in Window Coverings and Decorating ideas. You are also invited to visit our showroom at 112 W. Oak St. in Downtown Denton or our website at carolscustomdraperies.hdwfg.com.

As always: Happy Decorating

2009-10-24T10:28:00.000-07:00

2009-10-21T19:47:00.001-07:00

The world of fashion and interior design often walk hand in hand. But as Madeline Weinrib, painter and designer, says – “I’m not sure I want to walk around looking like my favorite pillow.” That said, I have created “my” space influenced by the emotions that I feel from fashion. I am a traditionalist at heart. But, I enjoy the trends of every season. The drapery and chair design reflect my traditional side. But, the colors pulled from the fashion certainly speak of the color palette from the 2010 color trends. “My sitting room” reflects the subdued grays, blacks and muted yellows of the fashion design. Yet, the crisp, bright yellow used on the chair as well as the crystal beads used on the drapery and chandelier invoke a feeling of warmth that I could sit and enjoy a cup of coffee and my favorite design book every morning. –Carol Collins, WFCP, Expert- Carol’s Custom Draperies & Interior Design, Denton, TX

Decorating To-Do List

2009-09-12T16:57:00.000-07:00

Try these updates to perk up your house for Fall:
What better way to start than the front door. Purchase an inviting Fall Wreath with beautiful fall leaves and berries.
Add a warm new coat of paint in the kitchen, family room or any room that needs freshening.
Order window fashions that let in natural light - and provide energy efficiency and cut down on heat loss - including Duette® Architella® honeycomb shades, Silhouette® window shadings and more.
Buy throw pillows, accent pieces, towels and table linens in fall colors, floral patterns and textures.
Remove the summer slipcovers and see if the fabric on your furniture pieces needs updating with new upholstery.
Candles and center pieces in Fall colors and scents help to set the mood.
Rearrange the furniture in your living spaces to create a more warm and cozy feel for the winter.

Custom Interiors

2009-07-19T17:11:00.000-07:00

From a basic pinch pleat to a sophisticated top treatment for your windows, we can help you design the perfect finishing touch for your blinds, shades and shutters. We offer a full range of custom fabric window treatments including traditional draperies, swags, cornices and valances. Many fine fabrics are available in a wide variety of colors and textures. We can also reupholster that favorite sofa or chair or create beautiful pillows to enhance the beauty of your existing furniture. Let our experienced staff help you select the style and fabrics that best meet your needs, at a price that fits your budget. Our combined experience spans 35 years. We are the experts for your project. Let us start today - Call 940-565-8337

"Stop Throwing Money Out The Window"

2009-05-27T08:41:00.001-07:00

Wikipedia defines Energy Efficiency as using less energy to provide the same level of energy service. Energy Conservation is broader than energy efficiency in that it encompasses using less energy to achieve a lesser energy service.

Hunter Douglas is the worldwide leader in creating innovative, energy-efficient window fashions that save valuable energy resources and reduce greenouse gas emissions. As Hunter Douglas products serve this larger purpose, they also make home interiors brighter, more beautiful, more private and more comfortable.

In 1985, with the invention of the Duette honeycomb window shade, Hunter Douglas took energy conservation to a whole new level. Recently, Hunter Douglas took energy conservation to an even higher level with the development of the Duette Architella honeycomb shade - a honeycomb within a honeycomb. This new design forms three air pockets to dramatically reduce heat flow at the window.

Installing Hunter Douglas window fashions in your home can reduce heating, cooling and lighting energy needs in three significiant ways:
*Reduce heat flow (heat loss and heat gain) through the windows.
*Control solar heat (heat energy from the sun) by allowing it in winter but reducing it in summer
*Enhance daylighting (the use of natural light) by diffusing and dispersing sunlight deep into a room

When you choose Hunter Douglas for your windows, you're doing more than saving energy resources and money. You're also enhancing the look of your home with remarkable beauty and style at the window.

As a Hunter Douglas Gallery Centurion Dealer, I am committed to offering you the products you need to "Stop Throwing Money Out Your Window" As a decorator I am committeed to offering you the most beautiful dressings for your windows that are also energy efficient to help save you money.

To learn more about energy efficiency and conservation please visit hunterdouglas.com or carolscustomdraperies.hdwfg.com. We are here to show you your options and to help you "Stop Throwing Money Out Your Window" and to help you "Dress Your Windows For Savings.

2009-04-30T10:14:00.000-07:00

I Believe in Window Treatments

Well, you might say “Of course she does, window treatments are her business.” But, let’s face it, a bit of fabric in any and every room gives a softening effect. And, the right window treatment can harmonize an interior, provide a needed focal point and offer more than just privacy.

We have a variety of windows here at Robson – there are the Arched and Eyebrow windows, the Bay windows, Corner Windows, French doors and Sliding glass doors. What works best for your window? Here are some recommendations:

Arched and Eyebrow: Many times I’m asked if the arch or eyebrow should be covered. There is no right answer to that question. A blind or shade can be put in the rectangle part of the window and the arch can be left open to allow light to flow into the room. Drapery panels mounted on a beautiful rod to either side of the window can be added to further enhance the beauty of the architecture of the window. For those who would rather cover the shape, add a fan shaped or solid wooden treatment to the top of a blind or shade. Another alternative is a shutter built into the shape of the arch. In any case, don’t forget the fabric.

Bay windows can be dressed with fabric inside the bay or along the front of the bay. Depending on the size and the amount of space above the bay many different types of treatments can be placed inside the area. Panels between the windows work well with swags, tailored valances, gathered valances and cornices as a few suggestions. A drapery panel on either side of the opening with a top treatment can add softness and frame the bay itself without putting any fabric inside the bay itself. Depending, again, on the size of the bay, too much fabric can be overwhelming.

Corner windows can be a beautiful backdrop for a seating area. Panels in the corner as well as on either side of the windows frame the area. Add a cornice treatment covered in a companion fabric to add the crowning touch.

French doors and sliding glass doors often seem to be the hardest windows to drape. When covering the entire glassed area it is wise to extend the drapery past the door on the side that does not open. This way you do not loose too much of your view. Panels hanging from a beautiful wooden pole with rings will serve to enhance any room with a set of French doors or a Sliding glass door. There is always the option of hourglass sheers on the French doors, but you must decide if you want the doors covered at all times.

Fabric at the windows is an important statement. Whether they be for privacy and protection, light and/or sound control, or for color and glamour, choose your fabrics to best suit your needs and desires.

Choosing fabrics can be so much fun. But if you find yourself in a situation that you just can’t make that decision, give me a Window Fashions Expert a call. She will be glad to help you make those choices.

Yes, I believe in Window Treatments – they are my passion.

If you have a designing question or ideas, please don’t hesitate to give me a call or email me at carcollins@msn.com. I invite you to also visit my website at carolscustomdraperies.hdwfg.com for other ideas for your interiors.

And as always - Happy decorating.

2009-04-13T10:44:00.000-07:00

PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

LOCAL DECORATOR SELECTED TO
TEST INTERIOR DESIGN SOFTWARE

Denton, Texas – April 3, 2009 – Carol Collins, the owner of Carol’s Custom Draperies & Interiors in Denton, has been selected as one of 58 national interior designers and decorators to test a new version of Minutes Matter Studio software. There are about 4,000 users of this software in the U.S. Collins is the only designer in Texas participating in the beta test.

Minutes Matter Studio is a computer software program that allows designers to digitally create custom designs that can be individualized by importing actual fabrics, wallpapers, paint colors, and pictures of furniture into the program. Decorators can design directly on a photograph of the client’s room or import specific elements from the room into a custom drawing. The software also has a space planning program for designing room layouts.

Carol has been using the software in her business for the past 5 years. “It’s an incredible program that enables me to show my clients how a new window treatment will look on their windows, what a specific color might look like on their walls, or even how different furniture would look in their rooms - before any fabrication or work begins. It is really exciting to actually have a voice in the development of this software!” For more information on the software, visit www.minutesmatterstudio.com.

Carol’s Custom Draperies & Interiors offers a full array of interior decorating services including Custom Window Treatments and Bedding, Custom Decorative Pillows, Design Services, Room Layouts, Designer Wallpaper, Upholstery, Shutters, Blinds and Shades. If you’d like to see some of Carol’s designs and examples of the computerized renderings, please visit her showroom in downtown Denton or her website at www.carolscustomdraperies.hdwfg.com, or call 940-565-8337.

Kitchens

2009-03-24T10:50:00.000-07:00

Do you remember as a child when you came home from school – opened the front door – and the smell of the evening’s meal met you? As you entered the kitchen, mom was busy enjoying the preparation. One glance to the countertop and there was the chocolate pie – there was always an evening dessert. Now look ahead 20, 30, 40, even 50 years ahead and how do we see our kitchens? Well, things have certainly changed. We have become so busy – even those who have retired – that we opt for the quick and easy meals or take-out and eat-out. But that doesn’t mean our kitchens shouldn’t be ready for those days when we do prepare the meals. But, kitchens have changed! Energy efficiency is at the top of the list for consideration. Below are a few things we can do to be energy conscious yet have a pleasant atmosphere in which to work.

Energy efficient appliances – the first place we should start. Check your appliance manuals to make sure you are following guidelines for efficiency. i.e., some dishwashers have internal heating elements that allow you to set the water heater at a lower temp. Secondly, make sure your refrigerator door seals are airtight. Vacuum the condenser coils of the refrigerator once a year (unless you have no-clean condenser coils.)

Gas ovens and ranges with automatic, electric ignition systems save gas because a pilot light is not burning continuously.

Recycle, Recycle, Recycle – Kitchen recycling centers take the mess out of managing your recyclables. Modified kitchen cabinets neatly conceal recycling bins. Check out your local home improvement store for options. Stand alone double and triple bins can be purchased at Target.

Energy efficient task lighting and lighting controls – whole house, programmable controls that allow lighting fixtures to perform as task, safety or mood lighting can often offset the cost by the first year’s energy savings.

Always leave the faucet lever in the cold position when using small amounts of water. Left in the hot position energy is used even though the hot water never reaches the faucet.

All that said – cooking can be fun and energy efficient in a well appointed kitchen. Give cooking a try – I do once in a while!

There's More To Life Than Ordinary

2009-03-12T15:16:00.000-07:00

I'd like for you to take a step back, look around your home and tell me what you see! Does your home look the way it did 10 years ago, 5 years ago, or how about 1 year ago? Well, maybe it's time to do something out of the ordinary!

If it has been 10 years or more since you spruced up your home, then let's start by looking at the paint on your walls. Many times we paint our walls a neutral color just to be on the safe side. Well, let's get out of that mindset! Neutrals are fine but let's get away from white and off white. Sherwin Williams has a slelection of paints called "Fundamentally Neutral." These neutrals range from Snowfall to Black Swan. Some have brown undertones, others have anywhere from pink to yellow to green to gray undertones. Pick one that will pick up the tones in your furnishings. Then, you might think about adding an accent color to a wall in one or more rooms. It is amazing what a fresh coat of paint can do for your interior.

Now, let's move on to the hangings on your walls. Is it time to replace one or more pictures? Not quite sure you can part with any of them? Well, just move them from one room to another. How about your mirrors? Mirrors can be very inexpensive and add so much depth to any room. Changing the frames on pictures and mirrors will help to refresh the look of your home. Michael's and Hobby Lobby have great half price off framing sales. Watch your Sunday newspaper for these deals.

Accessorizing can make any room look new and refreshed. New pillows and throws on sofa's and chairs add a little spice to any room. And, don't forget about decorative pillows for your bedrooms. Luxurious tassels hanging from lamps, armoires, or door knobs are always an elegant touch.

What about your window treatments and draperies? Whew, how long has it been since they were updated? With the emphasis on energy efficiency today it is important that we put thought into what we have on our windows. There are many energy efficient products on the market that help "Stop the Great Energy Giveaway" as Hunter Douglas puts it. Draperies and Valances not only help with energy savings but also add a beautiful setting in every room. Fabric of any amount on windows help to give warmth and softness to any decor.

Overshelmed by the thought of bringing your decor from ordinary to spectacular? Give Carol a call to help you pull it all together. Carol or any one of her designers can get you started or see you through the entire project. Call 940-565-8337 for an appointment and visit Carol's website at carolscustomdraperies.hdwfg.com - You'll love what you see! Happy Decorating!