The curtain is coming down on blinds.
According to Jim Sharp, owner of Associated Fabrics on Dodds Avenue, many interior designers are reporting a dramatic increase in people wanting drapery treatments on their windows instead of blinds and shutters.
“Blinds are on the way out,” said Sharp, whose store carries upholstery and home decor fabrics. “Blinds have been trendy, but people are finding them boring. They obstruct views and collect dust.”
Draperies, on the other hand, are virtually care-free and practical, with “beautiful prints and textures” being produced by fabric designers, said Jane Mitchell, an Associated Fabric consultant who owns Cherokee Rose, a local custom sewing and design company.
“Draperies are energy-efficient. They save you money,” Mitchell said, explaining that today’s sun-blocking drapes are made from fabrics that can include a window-insulating felt lining.