Curtains Made Out of Taffeta
Taffeta is a classic drapery fabric that can make any room sparkle. It is available in a wide array of colors, from subtle neutrals to jewel tones. There are two distinct types of silk taffeta. The piece-dyed version has a softer hand and is used for lining clothes and for electrical insulation. During World War II it was even used for parachutes. The yarn-dyed version has a slightly stiffer hand so that when it moves it produces a rustle or swish of silk. With its elegant glossy surface, yarn-dyed taffeta is a favorite for ballgowns and wedding dresses, in addition to fashionable curtains. Does this Spark an idea?
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Shirred Panels
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Taffeta curtains have the effect of dressing up a room in a party dress. The result can be restrained when the colors are neutral or dramatic when the colors are more intense. Taffeta is smooth and comes in a variety of weights. It forms a crisp drape and the subtly glossy surface makes colors luminous. Simple straight panels of taffeta fabric shirred on a rod create a look of understated elegance. The addition of decorative braid or fringe on the inside edge or the hemline of each panel will enhance the effect of luxury.
Pleated Panels
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Lined pleated panels are slightly more formal and facilitate drawing and opening the curtains to regulate light and privacy. Natural silk taffeta is available in prints, plaids, stripes and solids. Faux silk taffeta is woven from synthetic fibers and has many of the same characteristics as natural silk but is easier to clean and maintain.
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Decorative Swags
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Swags of taffeta draped across window widths form a sophisticated valance. A single length of fabric hung across a curtain rod with a soft droop in the center is the simplest approach. Two lengths of fabric twisted to form a valance that appears to be braided is also an effective approach.
Balloon Shades
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Balloon shades of silk taffeta are a romantic feature in a large room with multiple windows or in a smaller room with one or two windows. Enhancing the shade with braid or stripes of a contrasting fabric emphasizes the dramatic effect.
Draped and Pooled
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A palatial window treatment using taffeta consists of a single length of fabric draped from ceiling to floor on both sides and across the width of the window with a soft drape in the center. The silk is arranged through loops, or by a pin bracket at the upper corners of the window, and drops to the floor in extravagant pools of fabric on each side.
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