Silk Drapery - The Ultimate Luxury Fabric for your Windows

Nothing compares to the richness of genuine silk drapery.  It lends an elegant look and feel to a room that no other fabric comes close to.  If you want to add a rich sophisticated air to a room then silk is the way to go.   

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Often times silk panels are "puddled" as shown in the above photo.  This really highlights the beautiful luster of the fabric when all those folds are created.  Of course you can also have them hang so that they barely skim the floor. 

Silk drapes are a more expensive window treatment.  If cared for and lined properly your investment will last for years.   I recommend using a plain neutral colour or one with a subtle tone on tone pattern or stripe so that it is not something you will tire of quickly.  Ideally your drapes should echo the style of the room.  Two of the best places to use this luxurious fabric is in a dining room or master bedroom, as they tend to be more formal.   

There are a few options when choosing the drapery header. Pinch pleat, box pleat, or grommets all look fantastic in silk.

The classic pinch pleat is always a great choice, since it give a timeless look.  There is a huge selection of drapery hardware available.  In order to add a little more personality to the drapery, hang the pinch pleat from a decorative rod such as this:

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The box pleat is a more modern style.  The pleats are larger and more square.  This look would work in a transitional style. 

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Grommets are still a popular header.  It lends itself to a more modern feel as in the example shown below:

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There are more than two types of silk, but for simplicitys sake I will mention the 2 most common.   Thai silk is the smoother of these two.   It is not shiny, but has a gorgeous sheen.  This is what most people think of when you say silk.

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The other is natural silk.  This type has slubs running through the fabric so is not as smooth.   The texture is more noticable in this photo. 

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I want to add a word of caution with silk.  It will rot when exposed to sunlight.  It is therefore advisable to always line silk panels.  A flannel liner is best since it gives your drapes added body and they will hang much nicer.  If you decide you want silk drapes in a south facing window, I would add another liner as well to prevent sun damage.  The extra weight of these liners just add to the rich and full look you want when using silk drapery.

Also note silk panels should be dry cleaned to keep them looking their best.

In spite of the extra cost and care, silk panels are a wonderful way to dress up your windows when you want to add some sophistication.

If you have any questions regarding silk draperies or want to request a quote on a window treatment for your home, I would be happy to help. 

Linda

linda@changesinteriordesign.ca