FAQ
Style & Design
What is the difference between your drapes and ready made drapes?
In short, everything! Ready-mades are manufactured en-mass with little attention to quality, craftsmanship and details. Fabrics and linings are typically low quality which means you’re likely to replace them frequently. Major complaints include inconsistent length and fullness and sloppy workmanship.
At LilyFair Drapery our workrooms adhere to a strict philosophy of craftsmanship and standards to bring you consistent quality. We search out and hand pick the best quality fabrics and linings we can find. We pride ourselves in producing beautiful drapes with durability and last-ability that you will be proud to have in your home.
What are the differences between functional and decorative drapes?
Functional drapes provide coverage for your entire window. They provide privacy, light filtering and block UV rays from damaging your flooring and furniture. Decorative drapes are stationary are used to soften and finish a room.
Why is linen a popular choice for drapes?
The benefits are so numerous it’s the number one reason we wanted to bring them to you.
Linen has long been known by experts for it’s spectacular durability and long life. The tensile strength of linen is second only to silk. It’s properties allow it to repel dirt and dust making it hypoallergenic and therefore a great choice for those who are sensitive to dust and dust mites.
Linen has high air permeability and heat conductivity properties. Heat conductivity of linen is five times as high as that of wool and 19 times as that of silk.
It’s matt luster is appealing and highly regarded by designers. Linen is a classic and timeless choice of fabric for drapes.
Do you offer design suggestions?
Our designers are able to assist you in your selection of drapery. Please feel free to contact us for assistance and recommendation.
Is it possible to measure myself?
Yes! Be careful, not scared. It’s helpful make a quick sketch of your window and write each measurement down in the appropriate location. Just to be sure measure twice.
Is it possible to have my drapes measured by an installer in my own city?
It is not necessary as we provide you with all the information you need to measure for your drapes yourself. If you find this is a better option for you please have your installer refer to our site.
Do I really need to line my drapery?
It really depends what kind of look you want and more important how much privacy you need. Lining provides additional structure to the drape providing body and allowing it to hang better. Industry professionals advise not to skimp on the quality of lining as it adds to the strength and durability of your drapes. We cannot emphasise enough the importance of a good quality lining to elevate the appearance of your drapes. Other advantages of lining your drapes are:
- Privacy
- Protection, lining will not only protect the fabric of the drape but will also protect your floors and furniture from fading.
- Insulation from the hot sun or cold temperatures.
- Light reduction, you may need to darken your room for enhanced sleep quality.
- Noise reduction.
Do you offer light blocking linings?
Yes we do! Our blackout lining has a wonderful soft feeling, not like the blackout linings of the past. If you need to darken your room or don’t like the look of light filtering through your drapes, we recommend using a blackout lining.
Please see the Lining Guide on each drapery page for a more detailed description.
What is blackout lining?
Blackout lining blocks 99% of the suns rays from penetrating the room. Hotels always use blackout lining which is why many of us are able to enjoy a good nights sleep. Sun filtering through the fabric can also change the color and appearance of the fabric.
Blackout linings are not what they use to be. At LilyFair Drapery we have selected the softness blackout lining we could find to add body and fullness without being stiff. Blackout linings can be used on any one of our fabrics.
What is Interlining? What purpose does it serve?
Interlining is a soft flannel fabric that hangs between the silk fabric and lining.
The benefits of using interlinings for window treatments are numerous. It improves the hang of the drapes giving a luxurious look and feel to the room and aides in reducing noise from outside sources. Heat loss through windows is a major problem, adding drapes with interlining reduces heat loss by as much as 24%.
We recommend interlining on all our silk drapes.
Does silk fade in the sun?
Silk is a natural fiber and can be damaged by direct sunlight. We recommend ordering all silk drapery panels with our standard lining and interlining for additional protection from UV light. There is a possibility that the leading edges will fade. No guarantee is offered against any UV light effects on silk fabrics.
Can I use silk drapes in the kitchen?
Yes, you can use silk anywhere in your home although we don’t recommend using drapery of any kind where spills and splashes are likely to occur.
What’s in style right now for custom made drapery?
At LilyFair Drapery it’s our mission to keep you up to date on current styles, new designs and trends to help you make long lasting choices easily and quickly. Please refer to our blog postings (link) for current design trends.
What is the difference between curtains and drapery?
Generally curtains refer to a lighter window covering. Curtains also refer to something shorter that would just diffuse the light coming in from the window.
Drapery refers to a more substantial fabric panel that is most often lined with a lighter fabric that allows for optimal sun blockage. Drapery panels are longer and can provide more privacy for your window.
How do I make a small window appear larger?
To make a small window appear larger, add 6” – 12” on each side to the width of your window, including the frame. This will make your window look bigger and allow for more natural light to enter your room when your drapes are open.
What is puddling?
Puddling adds extra length to your drapes, beyond what is required to reach the floor. It enhances the look of your drapes adding opulence and style. The more length you add the more dramatic the look will be. Contemporary rooms look best with a “trouser break” while traditional rooms can handle a longer puddle.
If I open and close my drapes frequently, what is the most suitable length for my drapes?
Drapery should fall ¼” – ½” above your floor.
What styles of drapery are suitable for my space?
Everyone has their own personal style for their home. We would be happy to point you in the right direction for current styles and trends to find the perfect solution for your room. Please feel free to contact us for design help.
Do you offer other headings other than the ones listed on your website?
At LilyFair Drapery we offer comprehensive customization options. We are always happy to accommodate all requests. Please contact us for any special instructions.
What is a width?
A width is simply the width of the fabric as it comes off the bolt and before it is pleated.
What is a panel?
A panel is the number of widths sewn together and pleated to give you the desired overall width you require.
How many drapery widths per panel does my window need?
Measuring your window and deciding if you want a decorative look or functional drapes will help you calculate how many widths per panels you’ll need. Click here to learn how to calculate the number of widths per panel you will require.
How do I choose my rods?
There are 3 important considerations, type, style and size.
Determine the type of rod you will need. Decorative with rings, or a traverse rod for fully functional drapes. You’ll also need to consider what hardware is required should the rod butt up against a wall or turn a corner. Don’t forget a center bracket for stability.
Then determine the style of rod that would best suit the room and the drapes. There are many choices available to suit either Modern, Traditional or Contemporary styles.
Next is size. We recommend you measure the width of your window and add 6-12 inches on either side whenever possible. This allows you to “stack back” your drapes against the wall and expose as much window glass as possible. You’ll also need to consider the diameter of the rod. The bigger the room the larger the hardware, conversely the smaller the room the smaller the hardware.
Do you need different rods for sheers?
If your window treatment includes both sheers and drapes you’ll need two rods or one double rod. Your drapery rod will have a 6” bracket to clear the sheers behind them.
Order, Payment & Shipping
How do I order custom drapes from your site?
You can order directly through our site. We guide you step by step through the measuring and ordering process. It’s simple and fast.
If you prefer to place your order with our drapery designer, simply call us and we’ll be happy to take your order over the phone.
How are my draperies packaged and shipped?
We take great care when preparing your drapes for delivery. Each drape is carefully fan folded, sealed and packaged to minimize creasing. For shipping, we use Purolator Courier delivery service. For security reasons we require a direct signature upon delivery.
Do you ship outside of Canada?
We do our best to ship anywhere in the world. For international orders, please call us to calculate your shipping charges and place your order.
How are orders shipped?
We ship via Purolator Courier for all drapery orders within the 14 provinces. Shipping upgrades are available upon request.
How quickly will my order ship?
Please allow 4-6 weeks for custom orders. In the event that your fabric selection is on back-order, we will contact you with the estimated delivery time. We are committed to complete and ship all orders as quickly as possible.
We are happy to process rush orders. Please contact us for details.
How can I find out the status of my order?
As soon as your order leaves our workroom your tracking information will be posted. Log in to your account on our website to track your order.
I’m hesitant to enter my billing information on Internet sites. Is your site safe?
LilyFair Drapery offers a 100% secure page for you to enter your billing information when ordering. It is completely encrypted and extremely safe. We respect your privacy and never share your information with third parties.
How does your price compare to US sites?
Don’t be fooled by US pricing. Hidden costs of duty and taxes are often charged on delivery at your door and can increase prices as much as 50%. Most US websites will not calculate the duty for you making these extra charges an unpleasant surprise. LilyFair Drapery is Canadian owned and operated. The price you see is the price you pay.
Will I have to pay additional taxes and tariffs on my LilyFair Drapery order?
No, not within Canada. We are are proud to say we are a Canadian company that ships from Canada. We offer No Surprise Pricing. That means the price you see is the price you pay. No additional charges will be asked for at your door!
For international orders (orders outside of Canada) please contact us for details.
What methods of payment do you accept?
Visa, MasterCard and American Express all accepted through PayPal.
PayPal is an extremely secure and trusted third party payment processor used by millions of people daily. PayPal accepts all major cards including Visa, MasterCard, and American Express. You do not need a PayPal account to use this payment method.
Care & Keeping
How do I clean my draperies?
Professionally dry clean only.
How do I remove wrinkles?
Linen and silk fabrics are valued for their imperfections. Please remember that creasing is expected with these types of fabrics and adds to their charm.
We package our drapes carefully to minimize creasing, however some is inevitable. We recommend hanging your drapes with the packaging ties on leaving them for a few days to set the pleats. Most of the creasing is likely to drop out by this point.
If you prefer a smoother look consult your local professional cleaner to steam or press your drapes.
For further information on how to hang your drapes click here.
Customer Service
I realized I made a mistake and need to change my order. Is that possible?
Please contact us immediately. We will make every effort to make the changes you need however due to our unique customization process we can only make changes to your order provided we have not begun fabricating your drapes.
Can I cancel my order?
Because we begin working on your custom drapery order immediately, we can only allow cancellations if your fabric selection has not been cut by our workroom.
How true is the color I see on the computer to the actual fabric?
Computer monitors are calibrated differently. We do our best to represent our colours as true as possible. We recommend you order swatches to confirm your colour choices.
How can I find out the status of my order?
As soon as your order leaves our workroom your tracking information will be posted. Log in to your account on our website to track your order.
What is your return policy?
Your satisfaction is our top priority. All of our drapes are 100% guaranteed to be made to your exact specifications and free of any defects in craftsmanship. Each order is carefully inspected before it leaves our workroom. Custom orders are non-refundable, however in the event of a manufacturing defect we will repair or replace your draperies.
General
I have a question that is not addressed on this page. Who do I contact?
We’re happy to answer any questions you may have. Simply call us or email us for a prompt response.
Do you offer a trade program to design professionals?
As we continue to grow we will be adding a program for trade professionals. In the meantime please call us for information, we’d love to help
I received a special offer and have a coupon code. How do I claim this?
Once you arrive on the Checkout page, you will see a box labeled, “Voucher / Discount Code”. Just enter your special off or coupon code in that box and hit the button that says, “Next Step”. Your discount will be applied and is visible on the confirmation page before you confirm your order.
