Fabric shades are versatile window treatments that can be made using almost any fabric in a wide range of styles, colors, and functionalities. With the right lining, these shades are extremely energy efficient and exceptional for bedrooms and areas where room darkening is desired. Generally the taller the window, the farther apart the rows of rings are sewn to create larger folds that best suit the scale of the treatment versus the size of the window. Fabric shades are a good companion to drapery where stacking space is not available for some window treatments, but clients want consistency with the fabric across all treatments. At GiCor, our fabric collections include thousands of the latest patterns, textures & colors with manual & motorized options using a variety of control systems.
Here’s an overview of the different types of fabric shades and their features:
Studio style roman shades with horizontal dowls to create more uniform / structured folds
Fabric shade styles:
- Cascade (soft fold / hobbled) shades: This style incorporates soft cascading folds so shade looks more “full” and casual versus a flat style shade. These shades require a little more space (depth and height) when raised to accommodate the additional fabric. This style is best suited for smaller patterns or tone on tone fabrics with little to no pattern or repeat.
- Plain (Classic pleated) shades: These shades are also sewn flat but include a horizontal stitch to keep the fabric and lining together making the shade hang flatter and more uniform that a typical roman shade. This style is also good when using fabrics with larger patterns and repeats.
- Roman (flat fold) shades: These shades are typically sewn flat (no pleats) so they hang perfectly straight and showcase the fabric pattern as it comes off the roll. Roman shades stack neatly at the top when raised giving the appearance of a soft folded style valance known as a “mock roman”.
- European (relaxed) shades: This style is like a flat Roman shade however is typically made for narrower windows and does not have a center row of rings which creates a more relaxed look in both raised and lowered positions.
- Studio (front slat) shades: These shades are also sewn flat and incorporate an aluminum or wood dowel to create a more ridged or uniform fold when the shade is raised. Although these are sewn flat, larger patterns can be slightly disrupted by the dowel pockets.
Key Benefits:
- Customization: Fabric shades can be tailored in size, color, and pattern to suit your decor and personal style.
- Light Control: Many fabric shades allow for varying levels of light filtration, from total blackout to light filtering. Light gaps on the sides is kept to 1/8” making it an ideal solution for bedrooms.
- Softness and Texture: Fabric shades add warmth and softness to a room, enhancing the overall aesthetic.
- Safety Options: Many fabric shades come with cordless options, making them safer for homes with children and pets. Motorization is also a good option however given the weight of some fabrics, motors may need to be hardwired so greater lifting capacity motors can be used.
Studio style roman shades with coordinating upholstered bench seat
Fabric shades are a stylish and functional choice for any room, allowing for personalization and effective light management.
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