Swag Design .:. Window Covering - Design Author: Michael L Hill Sr .:. Michael is a career designer Credits: Images from 1001 Window Covering Decorating Ideas ....
Here`s the deal, swags are manufactured and wraps are not. Swags are fine decor and wraps are casual decor. Manufactured swags are cut into trapezoid shapes then either stair step cut or sheered. The cut of the fabric is often "on the bias" which helps the swag take the classic shape. Pole wraps and scarves just can`t do that.
Keys to successful swag design
Proportion is foremost. The weight of a design changes how we value it. Bulky looks, while loved by a few, are not usually accepted as beautiful.
Length is second. The normal drop from the top of the treatment is often 1/3, 2/3 or full length in proportion to how you are framing the window. The first drawing image 1 shows 1/3 length, image 3 shows 2/3. This is how most of us see it, but use your own judgement.
The third law is that the fabric must be flexible. A good test is to pull it diagonally, if it stretches it may do well. Another trick is make a swag by hand to see how it forms. Thick fabrics can sometimes make nice swags but not often. I like cotton best.
Swags must be manufactured into a predictible shape and size.
image 11. trapezoid shapes fabric prior to being sewn into swags.
image 1. Treatments such as this one appear to be poles wrapped with fabric, but fabric with not make these shapes without being manufactured.
image 2. The transparent swags are manufactured to maintain their shapes. This is peaceful and romantic.
image 3. An elegant, period look with embellishments. The pendant and tassels hint at neo-classic and the rich colors lend dignity.
image 4. The three swags and three jabots on each of these rods must be bias cut and manufactured to create this level of uniformity.
image 5. Casual dining enhanced by the finishing touch. Note that these are 1/2 way down the window and appear out of proportion (to big)
image 6. So called "random swag patterns" These heavy swag treatments are loved by those who want a rich full and neo-classic look. Only bias cut swags can do this - take time to plan the patterns before making them up, the look demands more forethought.
image 7. Simplistic swag over the rod and cascading jabots demonstrate casual elegance.
image 8. Layered swags in a semi random pattern give a romantic look. This look might be described as tradition with a twist. It almost looks rustic.
image 9. Swag Over with ribbon cascades give a child`s play touch and zest to the simple patters of fabric. The layering technique masks the complexity of the color scheme.
image 10. Simple Pole wrap scarves cannot achieve the sweeping beauty of manufactured bias cut swags and jabots.
Okay now you`ve got some of my secrets. Show me what you can do.
©2006 Michael L Hill Sr