Decorating With Pleated Window Shades

For those of you who are not familiar with pleated window shades they are the type of window shade that looks a bit like an accordion. It crumples upwards or downwards depending on whether or not you are opening or closing the window. The pleats are created by bunching that occurs when the pleated shade is pulled either up or down by a cord. They can be made from all sorts of interesting fabrics including silks, satins, chiffons, netting, velvets and even vinyl!

Many people like the versatility of a pleated shade. They can be lowered until they are only slightly rippled looking. This helps keep prying eyes from looking in the window. If you get a sheerer pleated shade, like one made out of cotton or netting then they will still let in plenty of light even while closed (but at the same time still providing privacy.) If you would like a completely opaque effect then choose a heavier damask or solid fabrics. The heavier fabrics look very attractive when the shade is pulled up as they give the shade a crushed appearance. Lighter fabrics look very ethereal in pleated shades, almost like a fairy’s web.

If you are looking for shades that have an insulating quality to them so you can keep heat either in or out of your house then consider getting one of the new cellular shades. These types of shades have U.V. protection that can protect a room from too much harmful sunlight. These types of pleated shades were created to help people protect their furniture from fading in strong sun.

You can also get pleated shades in every color imaginable. You can usually buy them off the store shelves, as there is a huge assortment of them on the market. You can find them online or offline at both retail and discount prices. When shopping for quality pleated shades you should look for a lack of seams, secure construction and nice balance. The pleated shades should also not sag in the middle once you hang them. It is also important that they are not a hassle to open or close without stalling, knotting or giving an uneven effect.

The best quality pleated shades have a double cord mechanism. This gives you the option of lowering the shade from the top or raising it from the bottom. This offers you the maximum manipulation of the way light filters into your space.

If you have children or pets you can get nice looking pleated shades that are operated by remote control. This is a good idea if you don’t like the risk of your pets or children getting caught in the cords and somehow hurting themselves.