Thursday, October 21, 2010

L is for “Lambrequin”

The ABC’s of window treatments

Our window treatment word for the day is “lambrequin”.  A lambrequin is basically a cornice with legs.  They are made of wood and then typically padded and covered with fabric but you could also use wallpaper or paint.  This style frames the window and looks good with a trim on the edge.

lambrequinelle

                                              Photo from Elle Decor

This historical drawing from The Smithsonian archives shows sheers and draperies layered underneath the lambrequin as well as ornate carved wood molding on top.

lambrequin

I love all the different shapes that you can design.   They can be traditional, modern even Moroccan depending on the shape and the fabric you choose.

lambrequinjvt lambrequinjvt2

                                      Photo from Jackie Von Tobel

Interior designer Elizabeth Payne used a lambrequin in this years Kips Bay Showhouse covered with an Osborne and Little fabric and a small beaded trim on the edge.

 image

 

I’ve done many over the years but this is the only photo I could find.  I made this one in three pieces to fit into a bay window and mounted faux roman shades underneath. 

DSC_0396[1]

They can work in kids rooms if you have the right fabric.  I made lambrequins for my son’s nursery and my niece’s room in my preblogging days so I don’t have pictures of them.

Tips:

1.  It’s very important to get the proportions right so draw it to scale first.

2.  Use a tightly woven fabric and pay attention to the placement when designing the shape.  Plaids and stripes are the most difficult.

3.  Pay attention to projection when you are installing over shades or drapery.

Now I’m in the mood to make one !

 

10 comments:

Sue said...

I learned a new word! I think this is a great look if you have the right window. Very elegant.

Karena said...

Tammy I may do this i my Mastwr bedroom large window. I totally had forgotten about lambrequins...of course it has been awhile since sewing for the home!

Be sure to come and enter my fabulous Giveaway from Metis Linens!

xoxo
Karena
Art by Karena

Room Service ~ Decorating 101 said...

You did a great job. I have never used them for myself or a client. Do you feel that they are coming back? Also, send me the link to that 31 days things... thanks

Regina at Fauxology said...

It was great to learn about this new option in window treatments. I think the shape would determine how successful it would be in design -- but I'm loving the idea for my own home (Moroccan style). Thank you!

Unknown said...

New vocab word! Now if only I can figure out a way to drop it into conversation ;)

xx Cristina

Susie R said...

Tammy, thank you for sharing the
lambrequin post. I seldom make them but you've just inspired me to start. I have installed a huge one over and down the sides of a patio door many years ago...it really turned out nice ! Thanks again !

Unknown said...

Oh these are so snazzy. I have never had an application to use them but a lot of the older southern homes have them!

Janell @ House of Fifty said...

These are amazing, and I would just love to use this treatment in a child's room. You are so right, in the right fabric it would be great, could be very whimsical! It's funny too, about not having photos from pre-blogging days! There are soooooo many things I wish I had photos of from a few years ago! Janell

Maureen Stevens said...

oh, I love Lamberquin then...just not in a pattern that's too bold.

Unknown said...

Never knew what these were called, but loving the look and how they add so much polish to finish off a room!

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