Wallpapering

Wallpapering

We always start an interior design scheme by selecting the curtain fabric as the first component of a room plan. The curtain style can make or break the total harmony and proportion of a room, and we are constantly asked how to choose the most appropriate style for a window.

Many people do not think how the curtains can be fixed and we are always trying to find new and more inventive solutions to solve ludicrous problems created by architects and builders.

Why, for example, are radiators placed under windows? Either all the heat goes up the back of the curtain or the radiator is covered altogether. Sill-length curtains never look as good as full length, fabric always looks better in a full drop.

As part of their training we think all architects and fitted furniture manufacturers should go on soft-furnishing courses, and then they would understand there is nothing clever about coving that stands proud of window reveals, bedside tables that are fixed to bed bases, windows that are virtually flush with the ceiling giving no clearance for fixing either curtain poles or pelmet boards.

The biggest pet hate of all has to be square upvc bays with deep sills - a favourite of designers of the new-build properties and a nightmare to dress. To all of those people we would say stand back and look at a Georgian window, enjoy the proportions, and before you put pen to paper and draw a circular pvc porthole imagine how it will look when dressed!

The old saying 'You get what you pay for' certainly applies to curtains. We always use interlining or 'bump' when creating our hand-sewn curtains. Interlining is a wadding which is sewn between the curtain fabric and the lining to make the curtains feel thick and luxurious. The interlining makes the fabric hang well and is a marvellous draught excluder.

Obviously this is expensive but well worth the money. Making curtains is a skilled jobs that takes time, and we are always wary of free curtain-making offers: surely quality must be compromised somewhere?

Curtains are becoming more simple and swags and tails, while the classic window dressing, now look a little incongruous and dated in a modern house. Dress curtains and blinds are very popular at the moment offering a lot of choice in both look and useage. The blind, either Roman or roller, gives privacy and practicality and the dress curtains mean the curtains can be full-length, showing the fabric off to its best advantage even if there is a radiator under the window.

If in doubt always ask advice from the curtain maker. If you have a problem window take a photograph of it and when looking at fabrics take the picture with you. The designer or sales person will then know exactly what is involved.

Budget idea If curtains are not an option how about creating your own Rose window from York Minster. Sandra Wilson, the manager of Paint Creative Colliergate (tel 01904 679070), can sell you a Rose Window stencil for the princely sum of £8.95. Using the stencil with frosting varnish for glass at £7.95, the varnish can be tinted to create your own stained glass effect.

Designer's choice The best curtain poles around are without a doubt from Artisan. The Equinox pole with hand blown glass finials is just gorgeous. The brown glass design called Arum is available from £72 for a 1.5 metre pole. Available from Plaskitt & Plaskitt.

Problem of the week

Question: Leather furniture seems to be back in fashion again, and we have seen a chair we like but are worried about keeping it looking good. Is leather easy to keep clean, or should we go for plain wool upholstery? C Manniott - Escrick.

Answer: We love leather furniture, and I wouldn't worry about keeping it looking pristine - a bit of wear and tear can enhance the look of leather. Keep the chair out of the sun, use saddle soap to remove marks and use hide food to keep the leather supple and it will last for years.

We will answer your queries but cannot reply individually. We aim to ensure all products and companies mentioned are reputable but readers must deal with them and follow our advice at their own risk. Send your queries to Plaskitt & Plaskitt, 8 Walmgate, York Y01 9TJ.