School of Soft Goods: Demystifying Window Treatments
by Jenny Kramer on Apr 25, 2025
It can be intimidating to purchase new window treatments. There are so many options, unfamiliar terminology and so many mistakes that can be made.
We are here to help you find the perfect fit and style for your windows.
We offer a measurement worksheet, where you fill in the measurements and we can then help you determine the best fit.
We will go into a little detail here, but if you ever need more specific help, just reach out via email to Design@wheatonwhaleyhome.com. Make sure to include the following so we can best guide you: pictures of the windows, number of windows, measurement guide filled out for each window, and any inspo pictures of what you like.
Drapery Measurement Worksheet:
Do you need functioning drapes?
Drapery panels can made to be "functioning" or "stationary". If you plan to open and close them daily and need them for privacy or light filtration purposes, you'll need "functioning" drapes. If you don't need them to open and close, and just want them for decorative purposes, they can be "stationary" or "decorative".
Lining types:
1) Standard weight lining (will filter the light, but not completely block light)
2) Blackout lining: (blocks the light that would otherwise shine through the fabric of the drapery)
3) Interlining (aka "bump"): Gives a thicker, fuller finish to the drape) usually a flannel or similar material. It is sewn in between the drapery face and the regular lining layer.
Return: A return is the section at the end of the drapery panel, after the last pleat, that will "return" back to the wall. That part can be pinned and "returned" to the wall if you need it to block the light or just for aesthetic purposes. This is truly personal preference. This goes hand in hand with the distance of the rod "projection".
Projection: The distance in between the rod and the wall- typically around 3- 3-1/2 ". When you purchase a rod, it should tell you what the "projection" or "return" measurement is. That can also be the measurement of the depth of the bracket. The drapery "return" should match the "projection" in most cases.
Pleats:
The space in between each pleat should be pushed or tucked back, vs. projecting that space forward, when styling drapes. This gives a more tailored and completed look. There are many styles of pleats. We offer 2 or 3 finger pinch pleats (pinched 4" down the pleat from the top), along with 2 and 3 fold Euro Pleats (pinched at the top).
We use drapery pins on the backs of our panels, which can be moved up and down if needed for slight adjustments. We can do rod pocket or back tab if needed. If using a traverse rod with a track, let us know in case any adjustments should be necessary.
ROMAN SHADES: can be functioning (raise and lower), or Stationary "Faux". We offer inside mounts or outside mounts.
As always, reach out with any questions at all. Quoting, function or production questions go to Elizabeth@wheatonwhaleyhome.com Design or style questions go to Design@wheatonwhaleyhome.com
Roman Shade Measurement Worksheet:
