How to Coordinate Lace Curtains With Your Home's Furnishings
Lace Curtains add a sense of grace to any window. The see-through material allows light into the room, while still providing privacy. Most lace is made of cotton, although polyester is also available. The patterns are created by twisting, looping, or knotting threads together. The pattern can be very simple or elaborate, but all lace has open and closed areas. This gives the fabric a light, airy feel that can be quite attractive and even romantic. The curtains can be hung with or without other drapery materials to create a style all their own.
Lace can be machine-woven or handmade
Lace can be machine-woven or handmade. Most lace curtains sold today are machine made. The standard lace-making machine is called a jacquard raschel, and it has at least 12 needles per inch. The needles make the warp thread, which holds the lace together, while creel threads are attached to each of these needles and form the patterning. The yarn is purchased on large spools, and the color of the finished curtain is dyed later.
Lace curtains
Historically, lace curtains were worn at the windows of the wealthy elite, but the style fell out of favor until it was revived in the Victorian era. The popularity of the lace-over-blind look continued into the 20th century, when it became popular in bungalows and Colonial Revival homes. The style has been in decline once again until recently, when it became fashionable in Europe and the United States.
period-appropriate pattern
If you are considering using Lace Curtains, it's important to consider how they will coordinate with your home and its furnishings. While lace can complement most styles, it's important to avoid gaudy or overly ornate looks in the rest of your decor. Generally, the best way to coordinate lace with your furnishings is to choose a period-appropriate pattern.
Queen Victoria ascended to the throne, and many of these designs
Most lace patterns were in production before Queen Victoria ascended to the throne, and many of these designs are available today as machine-made lace. The earlier historical lace-over-blind styles are especially suitable for Colonial, Greek Revival, and Federal style houses. Some lace companies offer designs from the Arts & Crafts movement, Victorian era, and Art Deco period as well.
Conclusion
If you're choosing a machine-made lace, it's important to check the label for washing instructions. Most lace is not as durable as cotton or polyester, so it must be washed gently. A mild detergent is recommended, and a cold or warm water setting should be used. If you want your lace to resist wrinkles, put it in a laundry bag before washing and wash on the gentle cycle. If you're concerned about staining your lace, try mixing 1/4 cup of white vinegar or lemon juice with one cup of distilled water. Apply the solution to the stain and let it sit for about 10 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with cool water. Be sure to rinse each panel individually before hanging to dry.
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