For a deeper understanding of our technical specifications, view The Design Lexicon, a resource to help ensure we are perfectly aligned on terminology and details.
Q: Why do you recommend hand-sewn curtains over machine-finished?
While machine stitching is faster, it can create tension in the fabric, causing it to stiffen or pucker. At Shades of Grace, we champion the traditional hand-sewn finish. This "invisible stitch" allows the layers of fabric and lining to move independently, resulting in a fluid, relaxed drape that feels significantly more luxurious. For high-end residential projects, this level of finish is essential.
Q: What is the benefit of adding Interlining?
We highly recommend interlining to achieve a truly elegant and tailored look. It is a soft, fleece-like layer sandwiched between the face fabric and the lining that serves three key purposes:
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Aesthetics: It adds volume and body, making the curtains look fuller and more attractive. This is particularly important for silks and lightweight fabrics, giving them the weight and structure they need to hang perfectly.
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Protection: It acts as a buffer, protecting delicate face fabrics from sun damage and extending the life of your curtains.
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Insulation: It provides an extra layer of thermal retention and helps dampen sound in the room.
Q: What is the difference between Standard, Blackout, and Thermal lining?
The choice of lining dictates how the light interacts with your room:
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Standard Lining: A high-quality cotton sateen that protects the face fabric and provides a neat finish, but allows light to filter through.
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Blackout Lining (3-Pass): A specialized lining with three layers of coating designed to block light penetration through the fabric completely.
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Thermal / Dim-out (1-Pass): A lighter option than blackout. It reduces light and heat transfer but will still allow a soft glow to permeate the room.
Q: Can I achieve 100% darkness with curtains or blinds?
It is important to note that achieving absolute total darkness is difficult with a single window treatment due to "light bleed" (light seeping in around the edges).
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To prevent or limit light bleed: We recommend layering a Blackout Roman Blind with Blackout Curtains.
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For the ultimate blackout: The most effective solution is a Blackout Roller Blind installed inside a "Blind Box" with side channels to seal the edges completely.
Q: Which fabrics work best for the "Wave" heading?
The Wave style relies on fluid movement. It requires a fabric that is soft and pliable—such as voiles, linens, or soft cottons—that "wants" to drape. Stiff fabrics, heavy brocades, or fabrics with a rigid backing tend to flare out at the bottom rather than holding the uniform S-shape. We will always guide you on the suitability of your chosen cloth during the design phase.
Q: Do you offer concealed or recessed tracks (e.g., Blindspace)?
Yes, we specialise in minimalist solutions that respect the architecture of the room. We frequently work with Blindspace and similar recessed profile systems to hide tracks and roller blinds within the ceiling void. We recommend consulting us early in the build process so we can advise your contractors on the necessary pocket dimensions.
Q: Can you bend tracks for Bay Windows?
Absolutely. Bay windows require precision to ensure smooth operation. Following our technical site survey, we custom-bend the hardware in our workshop to match the exact curvature and angles of your window. This ensures the curtains glide effortlessly around corners—something standard "off-the-shelf" poles cannot achieve.
Q: Should I choose manual or motorised operation?
This choice often depends on the scale of the window and the functionality required:
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Manual (Cord or Hand): Ideal for standard-sized windows where tactile interaction is desired.
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Motorised: Highly recommended for large or double-height windows, heavy interlined curtains, or delicate fabrics (to avoid hand-soiling the leading edge). It is also the standard for luxury convenience, allowing you to control privacy with a single touch.
Q: Do you have battery solutions if I don't have wiring?
Yes. While hardwired systems are the "Gold Standard" for longevity and maintenance, we offer high-performance battery-operated solutions for selected products. We feature systems from specific architectural brands including Lutron, Silent Gliss, and Umbra. These are excellent for retrofitting into finished rooms where chasing cables into the wall is not an option.
Q: Do your systems integrate with Home Automation (Lutron/RAKO/Crestron)?
Yes. We view soft furnishings as a critical component of your home's technology ecosystem. We supply motors that seamlessly integrate with major automation protocols including Lutron, Rako, Crestron, Control4, and KNX. We work directly with your M&E consultant or AV team to ensure seamless communication between our motors and your control system.
Q: I see you offer Lighting Design & Supply. How does this complement your window treatments?
We believe in a holistic approach to light. As Certified Lutron Lighting Specialists and RAKO Experts, we don't just manage the sunlight entering your room; we control the artificial light within it. By commissioning both systems through us, we can create unified "Scenes" (e.g., a single button press that closes the blinds and dims the lights for "Cinema Mode"), ensuring the colour temperature and ambience are perfectly balanced.
Q: Do you supply the lighting hardware and controls?
Yes. We offer a full supply service for intelligent lighting solutions. This includes specifying the load controllers, keypads, and the architectural fittings themselves. Whether you require the robust ecosystem of Lutron RA2 Select / HomeWorks or the wireless flexibility of Rako, we provide the technical expertise to design a system that works in harmony with your interior design.
Q: At what stage should we contact you for a motorised or lighting project?
The earlier, the better—ideally before the "First Fix" electrical stage.
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For Curtains: We need to position power points to prevent trailing cables.
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For Lighting: We need to plan the circuits and back-boxes for keypads. Engaging us early allows us to provide detailed wiring diagrams to your onsite electricians, ensuring the infrastructure is perfect before the walls are closed.
Q: Is every fabric suitable for cushions and upholstery?
Not necessarily. While a fabric might look beautiful, it must be fit for purpose.
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For Upholstery: We strictly check the Martindale Rub Count to ensure the fabric can withstand daily wear without fraying or piling.
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For Cushions: We assess the stability and tightness of the weave. We will always advise you if a delicate silk requires backing or if a loose weave is better suited for a throw than a seat pad.
Q: What fillings do you use for your cushions?
To achieve the signature "karate chop" look and superior comfort, we typically specify a luxury feather and down mix. This offers a sunk-in, relaxed elegance that synthetic fillers cannot replicate. However, for clients with allergies or for structural bolster cushions, we can supply high-quality microfibre or foam alternatives that mimic the feel of natural fill.
Q: Can you create bespoke shapes for window seats or banquettes?
Yes, this is a core part of our service. Because no wall is perfectly straight, we do not rely on simple linear measurements. We create physical templates of the area onsite. We then craft the foam and covers to fit the space with millimetre precision, ensuring no gaps and a truly built-in appearance.
Do you offer site surveys?
Yes. We believe that a project is only as good as its measurements. We do not rely on client-supplied measurements for manufacturing. Our team conducts a comprehensive Technical Survey to assess dimensions, fixing substrates, and access routes. This effectively transfers the liability of the fit from you to us, ensuring peace of mind.
What are your lead times?
Our typical lead time is 4 to 6 weeks from the receipt of fabric and deposit. However, this timeline may vary depending on the project volume and specific technical requirements. We will always provide a clear, projected installation date upon commissioning to help you plan your schedule effectively.
Do you work with Interior Designers and Architects?
Yes, this is the core of our business. We understand the unique pressures of the design pipeline. We offer a dedicated Trade Service that includes technical specification support, sampling, and coordination with other site contractors (such as electricians and joiners) to ensure your vision is executed flawlessly.
What does your "Installation & Dressing" service include?
We don't just "fit" curtains; we dress the room. Our white-glove team will protect your surfaces, install the hardware securely, and hang the curtains. Crucially, we then steam and "dress" the fabric—training the pleats by hand so they hang perfectly from day one. We leave the room immaculate and ready for the client’s reveal.
How should I care for my bespoke curtains?
Your curtains are handcrafted investment pieces. To maintain their structure and finish, we strictly recommend professional dry cleaning by a specialist familiar with interlined soft furnishings. We advise against vacuuming or spot-cleaning with water, as this can damage the delicate fibres and linings.