When you think of velvet, doesn't it connote a feeling of luxury and times past? In the Victorian era, velvet was a hallmark of the genteel style of living, comfort and luxury rolled into one statement. Even today, a velvet dress is worthy of your Christmas party, New Year's event, a romantic date at the theatre, symphony, or ballet event, when you want to look your best. Velvet bespeaks sophistication and glamor. Velvet fabric is luxury and grace, the fabric equivalent of diamonds or pearls. If you're looking to redecorate a room in a sensuous way, give velvet a thought for an elegant makeover.
Velvet drapes can be a knockout. Velvet drapes can turn your living, dining or bedroom into a luxurious and sensual space of delightful proportions.
Velvet comes in grades of quality. Short cut velvet is the lesser of the velvet grades, because less light is reflected, with a decreased sumptuousness, a flatter look which more closely mimics velveteen. Long cut velvet reflects more light and thus sheen, making a more sensuous statement. Long cut velvet is more expensive and requires more care, but if you're looking for a sensuous statement, go for the long cut velvet.
In the short term, your velvet drapes will seem expensive. In the long term, velvet drapes will go the mile, stating their intrinsic elegance for years to come.
One cardinal rule when choosing velvet drapes is to be sure you have adequate yardage. All drapes should measure at least 2 ˝ to 3 times the width of the window, to give the necessary fullness required for generous and ample coverage. Velvet drapes are no exception and in fact should err on the side of generous coverage. After all, if you're investing the money for this romantic Victorian look, you've got to pull out all the stops! Don't go halfway.
If you're going to do velvet drapes, you should go all out with the trimmings. Gold rope pullbacks will certainly enhance the look, as will tassels on the hems or tie-backs. Gold lace trims, at the hem, or used as pullbacks, will only add to the romance.
Once you've chosen velvet drapes, be aware that special care of the fabric is required. Get a can of 3-M to waterproof and protect the fabric from dust and stains. The best method involves treatment of the fabric before sewing, assuring an even coat of protection.
There are numerous styles of velvet drapes, from the full-length window to floor length, “I've got a butler”, style to the fish tail valance style of the old Virginia plantation style.
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