Drapery Hardware Online Store Launches

Posted on May 4, 2012 by Mike

Drapery Hardware StoreUntil now professional grade drapery hardware has only been available to the decorating trade and, has been difficult if not impossible to find for those who choose to do it themselves.  Large diameter wood poles up to 3inches with matching finials could only be obtained by decorators who often charge exorbitant prices for the privilege of using their services.  Curtainrods-online.com has changed the game with its extensive line of professional quality drapery hardware being sold wholesale to the public for the first time.  Real wood poles in 1 3/8”, 2 ¼” and 3” diameters come with the finial style of your choice and mounting brackets delivered to your door free of charge.

These decorative wood poles can be used to hang draperies, swags, valances or even a wall hanging of your choice.  Big box stores such as Target or JC penny’s often carry a limited selection of drapery hardware and do not carry the wide diameter poles or detailed finial styles often fancied by the best designers.  Now you can spruce up your windows like a pro by using real wood poles that will make a statement on any window in your home with out breaking the bank.

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Window Decorating Fabrics

Posted on January 11, 2012 by Mike

fabric window coveringsNow that the holidays have past, it’s time to get back to our interior decorating projects that we have put on hold.  Why not make the best of the long winter months that often keep us cooped up indoors.  Decorating with fabric window coverings can easily change the whole look and feel of a room, and custom fabric window treatments should be at the top of your list.

Gone are the days of stark white walls and naked windows, when decorating today it is more common to find each room taking on its own identity.  Not only does this mean selecting a different paint color for each room but, also includes a unique fabric window treatment for each window. Many homes already have some type of window blind or shade covering their windows but blinds are typically more functional than they are beautiful.  Having your window blinds and shades already installed means that you are ready for the next step.

The next step usually means choosing a fabric that fits the style and decor of a room.  There are literally thousands of fabrics to choose from all with their own individual style and texture.  Once you have reached this step it may be time to seek the help of an experienced window treatment specialist.  Choosing a fabric that is the perfect fit for your own individual style can some times be very time consuming and it is easy to make a mistake.  Choosing a fabric is a very personal decision that you will make, but a little coaching will go a long way.  I recently had an encounter with a customer, we’ll call her Mrs. Jones who was misinformed and this misinformation ended up costing her a pretty penny.

Mrs. Jones hired an interior designer to choose her fabric and design her fabric window treatments.  The designer recommended a beautiful silk fabric for the living room that she would make into draperies to frame the window.  Mrs. Jones agreed to the color and style and, was anxious to have the new draperies installed.

Six weeks later the draperies were hung and Mrs. Jones loved the look but asked if the wrinkles in the fabric could be removed.  The designer replied; Mrs. Jones these draperies are pure silk that is how silk is supposed to look”. Her reply was, “What you see as pure silk I see as wrinkled fabric, all I ask is for you to remove the wrinkles”.  The designer explained that the wrinkles could not be removed because wrinkles are inherent to most silk fabrics.  Mrs. Jones reluctantly paid the designer her fee because she was told that she received what was ordered.  The only mistake the designer made was not telling Mrs. Jones before hand that silk fabrics are inherently wrinkled at which point a new fabric could have been selected.

After living with the draperies for six months Mrs. Jones was so unhappy with her purchase that she decided to have the draperies remade.  This time she consulted with a window treatment specialist that steered her in the right direction. Yes, this is a true story and this is just one example of what can happen if the wrong fabric is used when decorating your home. Decorating with fabric should be at the top of your list if you would like any given room in your house to take on personalized look. As you can see, choosing the correct fabric color, texture and, composition is as critical as choosing the right style for your window.  If you are not sure about how to choose the correct fabric make sure to contact a NY window treatment professional.

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Missing Window Cornices?

Posted on December 7, 2011 by Mike

Have you just installed your window blinds or shades and feel something is missing?  What you may be missing is a Window Cornice.  A window cornice in its simplest form is a wood box that can be upholstered, painted or stained and is made to cover the top of  a window blind or shade.  Window cornicewood cornice moldings come in many different shapes and sizes and will add that finishing touch to any window blind or shade.  For upholstered cornices a fabric must first be selected that will be used to wrap the wooden frame.  If your window blinds or shades are white or off white then choosing a fabric that will introduce some color or interesting pattern would be a recommended. You will be surprised how a cornice will change the whole look of your window treatment.  If a simple more sophisticated look is preferred then a wood cornice that represents crown molding can be used to top your blinds or shades.  Wood window cornices can be painted or stained to coordinate with your interior space and will add interest to an otherwise boring window covering.

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Cool off with Cellular Shades

Posted on August 3, 2011 by Mike

If you haven’t heard the northeast has been experiencing record temperatures this summer, just last week the mercury reached 106 degrees in New York’s Central Park.  Due to the extreme heat we have had many customers have been inquiring about the insulating qualities of Cellular Shades (also known as Honeycomb shades) for windows and skylights.  I have always known that these shades were effective in keeping the air cool in summer and warm in the winter but this extreme weather has people talking about how effective these shades really are.
I just received a call from a good customer let’s call her Mrs. “C”; she was in a panic because her motorized cellular shade had just run out of battery power and was stuck in the up position.  She explained to me that with the shade down in her living room the temperature was 15 degrees cooler than with the shade up.  Not only was the room uncomfortable even with the air conditioning at full blast but, she was wasting her money by making the air conditioner work harder than it had to.  Because of the insulating qualities of cellular shades it is common for these shades to pay for themselves over time.  Yes, the savings that you receive on your energy bill from the insulating qualities of cellular shades will more than pay for the shades over a period of years.  Let’s not forget that these shades not only can save you money on your energy bill but, also offer a beautiful and functional window covering that will provide both privacy and light control. As for Mrs. “C”, once I explained how to change the batteries in her motorized shade the crisis was averted and Mrs. “C” was able keep cool once again.  So if you are in the market for a beautiful window covering that will keep you cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter, check out the great selection of cellular shades also known as honeycomb shades.

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Traditional Brackets Offered By Osborne

Posted on June 21, 2011 by Mike

Brackets have been used in numerous types of architecture for several reasons. Colonial buildings were sometimes built to include decorative corbels on the exterior to make the otherwise plain buildings come alive. In the following years, the design evolved into what is now referred to as Victorian architecture. In this highly ornamental era, it was not uncommon to see corbels on the exteriors of both common and governmental buildings. In medieval Europe, many used brackets for protection. At that time, brackets were made from stone materials which had frightening contortionists, dragons, and drunkards chiseled into them.  The theory was that if individuals placed these carved corbels on the outside of their homes, they could ward off evil spirits. In contrast, the churches of the time period would surround themselves with images of biblical figures carved into corbels to give visual representations of light to the people.

In America, corbels were made from wood rather than stone because of the abundance of trees in the surrounding forests. When gingerbread-style houses became popular, the brackets were integrated into the facades. This style soon became popular with farmhouses as well. When used boldly along with molding, the farmhouses were transformed into something quite picturesque.

With the invention of the railway system and assembly lines, a greater quantity of corbels could be ordered and transported quickly by train. Until this time, corbels were used mainly for decorative purposes, but the style began to change. Consumers began desiring products which served a functional rather than ornamental purpose. To meet this demand, bracket designs changed from ornate carvings to the more simplistic. The straight lines on the aptly named traditional corbels gave the impression of strength over ornament.

Consumers today are also looking for functionality in corbels rather than the highly decorative look used in the Victorian era. Modern traditional brackets avoid using curves and are recessed to provide a simplistic look. Osborne Wood Products, Inc. realizes the need to offer simple as well as elaborate and ornate corbels and brackets, and because we strive to meet the needs of our customers in every way possible, these traditional brackets are offered at Osborne Wood Products in a number of designs and in up to eleven different wood types.

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Remote Controlled Window Blinds and Shades

Posted on June 21, 2011 by Mike

Remote Controlled window blinds and shades otherwise known as motorized window blinds and shades are now available from most reputable window coverings retailers.  Once only available to the rich and famous, advances in technology have brought the price of remote controlled window blinds and shades within reach of most consumers.  There are a few different types of remote controlled window blinds and shades such as, Battery Powered, Hard Wired, Infrared, and Radio Frequency operation.  These different types vary by manufacturer and there is no one size fits all.  If you are considering a purchase of remote controlled window blinds you should always discuss your needs with a qualified retailer such as BlindsOnLine.com.  BlindsOnLine.com does not offer a motorized option on their website but, they will offer this option to those who contact Mike directly to discuss their needs.  It is important to understand the pros, cons, and limitations of remote control window blinds before making a purchase.

Even though remote control window blinds and shades are growing in popularity this option is not always the best application for every window in your home. I usually recommend remote controlled window blinds for hard to reach windows.  Windows that are high such as an entry foyer windows or a window that is difficult to reach such as a window behind a bathtub, these would be perfect examples of shades that require motorization.  If you are thinking of using remote controlled shades in every room of the house I usually advise against it unless you are incorporating the shades into a whole house automation system such as X10® or TAHOMA®.

Once you have selected the windows that require remote control operation you will need to select the type of motorized system.  The most commonly used system is the RF or Radio Frequency battery powered motor.  RF allows you to remotely operate the window blind without having to be in close proximity of the window.  The radio frequency single will pass through walls or window valances so that you will not have to point the remote directly at the electronic eye in order for the blind or shade to function.  Although infrared remote control blinds and shades are still available it is considered “old technology” and is not recommended for most applications. If you are planning to operate a large quantity of blinds and shades via remote control then a “hard wired” system may be the way to go.  Hard wired motorization will eliminate the need for batteries (usually 8-12 per window blind) and will also allow for larger, heavier window shades to be operated via remote control.  Hard wired systems will require the services of a licensed electrician so be sure and take that into account when budgeting for this type of system.

Remote control window blinds and shades can also be integrated into home automation systems such as TAHOMA® by Somfy or the more commonly used X10® system. By integrating your remote controlled window shades to a home automation system you will have the ability to operate your window shades, lighting and thermostat from a remote location via the internet.  Full home automation not only can give  your home that “lived in” look while you are away but it can also be very effective when trying to conserve energy.  By controlling your window shades, lighting and thermostat remotely via the internet you can set all of these to function at peak efficiency which will lead to energy savings and extra cash in your pocket.  Remember, if you are shopping for remote controlled motorized blinds and shades always discuss your needs with a qualified professional such as BlindsOnLine.com to maximize the potential of the shades and to save you from costly mistakes.

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June Blinds Sale

Posted on June 1, 2011 by Mike

At BlindsOnLine.com- Get $50 off orders of $500 or more now til June 15th. Cannot be combined with other offers. Don’t forget to check out our new line of Solar Sun Screen Shades.

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Window Shadings- Shangri La

Posted on May 31, 2011 by Mike

Yes, you read the title correctly I said, Window Shadings.  What is a window shading?  A window shading is a new category of window blinds and shades that was created by Hunter Douglas window fashions in 1991.  Yes, window shadings have been around now for 20 years and the majority of folks still do not know what a window shading is.  Let’s just say that a window shading is a cross between a window blind and a window shade.  When Hunter Douglas set out to find a new product to sell, they were faced with a challenge that all of us in the window covering business had been battling for years.  There were always customers who loved the soft look of shades but did not like that they had to pull the shades up in order to get a view to the outside world.  Then there were those customers who loved the flexibility of a window blind because they were able to get a view to the outside and light control by simply rotating the slats or louvers.  The challenge was to come out with a product that was able to give the consumer all the flexibility of a window blind and the soft uncluttered look of a fabric shade.

That was when Silhouette® window shadings were born, a beautiful soft window shade that functioned like a window blind. The Hunter Douglas Silhouette® is a fabric horizontal blind covered with a sheer fabric facing on the front and back of the slats.  The Silhouette® operates the way a horizontal window blind would operate by tilting the fabric slats open for view through and rotating the fabric slats closed for privacy.  The Sheer fabric facing is what softens the look of the blind and what gives the Silhouette® window shadings a split personality.  Hunter Douglas had successfully combined the soft look of a window shade with the functionality of a window blind.  Although Silhouette® Window Shadings do not come cheap, I have never heard one customer complain about the price after the shades have been installed in their windows.  They are truly a one of a kind window treatment that everyone seems to love.

Since the inception of Silhouette® Window Shadings in 1991 their have been very few imitators because of the patent protection that was granted to Hunter Douglas.  There is however, another product that resembles the Silhouette® Window Shading and it is called Shangri-La® Sheer Horizontal blinds by Comfortex window fashions.  The two shades are aesthetically the same except for some proprietary operating systems that only Hunter Douglas can offer. Even though Comfortex is now owned by Hunter Douglas the shades are marketed as separate brands.  The Comfortex Shangri-La Sheer Horizontal product can be sold via the internet through reputable retailers such as BlindsOnLine.com at a substantially lower price point than the Hunter Douglas Silhouette.  Hunter Douglas does not allow their Silhouette® Window Shadings to be sold via the internet or at big box retailers, if you would like the original Silhouette® then you will need to visit your local Hunter Douglas retailer.  If you are looking for something truly unique that is both beautiful and functional remember that you have another choice other than window blinds or shades and, yes you guessed it, that choice is Window Shadings.

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Discount Window Blinds

Posted on May 30, 2011 by Mike

Shopping for discount window blinds? BlindsOnLine.com® has the largest selection of top-of-the-line, discount blinds for windows at the lowest price with the convenience of shopping online. Even in this tight economy, you do not have to settle for less—all of the products we carry are manufactured under our own brand name, allowing us to drop our prices and sell our quality products for less than you’ll find in stores.

Our Discount Window Blinds Come In a Variety of Styles, Fabrics and Colors at BlindsOnline.com®

Help Line: 1-866-811-7727

Discount Blinds for New Decorating or Re-Decorating

If you are a new homeowner with an empty house that desperately requires interior decorating, starting with the windows, or you are about to redecorate your existing home, you will benefit in getting the best quality, discount window coverings available. We sell discount window blinds that are appropriate for all design styles. So, whether you are a fan of contemporary or classic styles, you’ll find just what you are looking for here. At BlindsOnLine®, you will be spoiled with the endless range of fabrics, colors, and designs to choose from…all at bargain prices.

Browse Our Online Catalog

When you browse our online catalog, you will find we carry wood, faux wood, woven wood, mini, cellular, Roman, Venetian, roller, vertical, panel track, skylight, white, blackout, vinyl, and energy saving bargain blinds, as well as BaliTM and Shangri-LaTM discount blinds. Oh, the style choices just go on and on! We also offer our quality blinds and shades at even bigger savings with our Weekly Specials.

Learn How to Measure and Install Your New Discount Shades

We Guarantee You’ll Love Your New Discount Window Blinds

You will be confident and happy with your purchase of our discount custom blinds. They can be custom-fitted to your exact measurements. In addition, they come with a limited lifetime warranty. In fact, BlindsOnLine.com® guarantees you will love your new discount window shades and blinds, or we will refund your purchase price.

Contact Us Today to Order Your New Discount Blinds from BlindsOnLine.com®

www.BlindsOnLine.com®

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Wood Venetian Blinds

Posted on May 25, 2011 by Mike

Wood Venetian Blinds are a Natural Choice

Nothing appeals to our senses more than the natural beauty and warmth of wood — that is why wood Venetian blinds are appeal to so many people. Offering natural style and beauty, Venetian wood blinds are a classic window treatment that complements the popular trend for wooden flooring and furnishings … and they do all this in an elegant and sophisticated way.

Wooden venetian blinds are not only beautiful; they also are durable enough to endure the wear and tear of everyday use. These blinds can be closed completely, providing all the privacy of heavy curtains; lifted completely, moving them totally out of the way so that they are barely noticeable; and also left in place and tilted to provide varying degrees of privacy and to allow different amounts of light to come in. They are also very energy efficient, providing up to 1000 times more insulation than aluminum blinds.

Cleaning wood Venetian wooden blinds is also less difficult than attempting to dust or clean any other type of blind. Because the slats are more substantial, it is possible to use a clean cloth and a light cleanser to easily clean the blinds without having to remove them from the window. The end result is a room that looks clean and fresh even if the blinds have been in place for an extended period of time.

Regardless of what your style is – classic or contemporary – Venetian wooden blinds can stand alone as a tasteful piece of window furniture. A good set of Venetian blinds can transform your home into having a very classy atmosphere. You might try a set of white Venetian blinds wood to lighten an already-dark room, or maybe some beautiful wood venetian blinds to add a very warm and old-fashioned feel to a living room or conservatory; either way, these blinds are a great, timeless addition, and you can see for yourself how versatile they are.

Learn How to Measure and Install Your New Wood Venetian Blinds

Contact Us Toll Free at: 866-811-7727

Email BlindsOnLine® at: questions@blindsonline.com®

www.blindsonline.com®

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