soft fabric http://www.artwoo.com Returned search results for soft fabric Copyright 2008 Sun, 23 Nov 2008 04:42:57 +0000 http://www.artwoo.com/rss/soft+fabric Invest on Soft Furnishings: Make Your Home a Soft and Warm Haven http://www.artwoo.com/article/invest-on-soft-furnishings-make-your-home-a-soft-and-warm-haven http://www.artwoo.com/article/invest-on-soft-furnishings-make-your-home-a-soft-and-warm-haven#comments Thu, 23 Oct 2008 00:15:27 +0000 throw pillowsplush accessoriesairborne particlestrap dustcheap materialsoft furnishingsmites http://www.artwoo.com/article/invest-on-soft-furnishings-make-your-home-a-soft-and-warm-haven soft furnishings.

Curtains, pillows, throws, and beddings are what we call soft furnishings. A home would not look complete and comfortable without these . But people usually take them for granted and just buy anything as long as they have pillows and curtains. Soft furnishings, like furniture, should be seen as an investment.

First of all, when buying soft furnishings, you should not sacrifice quality over cost. People usually think that buying cheap soft furnishings is fine because no one would notice. True enough, there are curtains that look really nice that you can buy for a cheaper price. But take into consideration the quality. It is alright to buy cheaper ones but make sure that they can withstand constant washing. Curtains, for example, and other so it should be constantly washed. If you buy a curtain made of , chances are it would not last until the third washing.

There are people who are allergic to fabric or fibers so they cannot enjoy the comfort of pillows. A way to solve this is to buy hypo allergenic pillows that are treated so to not cause allergies to sensitive people. There are also pillows that are treated so they would not trap dust and . These kind of pillows cost more than the ordinary ones but you can be assured of the quality and the comfort it brings.

More than bringing comfort while you lounge on your bed or on your couch, soft furnishings are also effective accessories that you can use to catch attention. They bring in colors that could accentuate your home even more. They could also set the mood of your house. For example, using oriental patterned or curtains set against a clean and modern interior already sets the eastern mood. Full height curtains could also add height to your home.

Soft furnishings could also be used to give your home a glam look. Even if you just bought your couch from a flea market or a garage sale, putting in throws and pillows with rich fabric will instantly make your couch look glamorous and expensive. The same could be said for beds. Having several numbers of pillows instead of just using two will instantly make your bed look like the ones you see in hotels and expensive lodgings.

More than anything else, soft furnishings could be an additional source of warmth during cold seasons. But bear in mind that soft furnishings meant for winter could not be used for summer.

It is best to have a few matching sets of soft furnishings to match the weather. Having several sets is also the best way to make your soft furnishings last for several years because anything that you wash and wear will eventually deteriorate even if it is made of quality material. Also, it is best to dry clean your soft furnishings so the richness of the fabric and the colors will not fade easily.Judge Ceilings offers suspended ceilings and lighting solutions for home and business. Dekorbeton offer decorative concrete flooring providing a cheaper alternative to natural stone.]]> Setting The Mood: Choosing The Right Fabric For Your Gown http://www.artwoo.com/article/setting-the-mood-choosing-the-right-fabric-for-your-gown http://www.artwoo.com/article/setting-the-mood-choosing-the-right-fabric-for-your-gown#comments Fri, 17 Aug 2007 05:15:05 +0000 polyester satinsilk satinmatte satinplanning a weddingquality polyesterfabric texturesgowns http://www.artwoo.com/article/setting-the-mood-choosing-the-right-fabric-for-your-gown Planning a wedding in Toronto then no doubt about it: the same dress in two different is two different . The fabric a bride selects helps to convey her mood. From the warmth of velvet to the crispness of silk dupioni, the fabric=97as well as the gown=97has to reflect the individuality of the bride.

What's exciting about weddings in Toronto are the gowns in a variety of fabrics from which a bride can choose. While there will always be gowns made from satins and Alencon laces, a bride today has more choices.

Satins

Silk Duchesse Satin. This fabric always sets the high standard for satin. It can be found in the higher-class shops in downtown Toronto. It has a luxurious sheen and richness that, in satins, is unparalleled. A bride who is unwilling to compromise on her wedding gown will want to try on gowns made from , as it looks more luxurious.

Polyester Duchesse Satin. Also known as Italian satin or , this fabric closely imitates the qualities of a good silk satin. It too can be found in the finer boutiques in Toronto's fashion district. It has a soft, subtle shine and a smooth, supple surface. It also has less of a tendency to wrinkle than silk satin. A good duchesse satin will make a gown look richer, providing additional elegance.

s. Many of today's gowns are manufactured using one form of polyester satin or another. Much of its popularity comes from its inexpensiveness when compared to the costs of other fabrics. Toronto is known for its wedding gown shops. Try not to get a wedding gown that is made with a polyester satin that is too thin or too shiny. They won't do you or your gown justice.

Acetate Satins. Unlike their polyester counterparts, acetate satins have a tendency to wrinkle. They also have a substantial shine to them. Acetate satins work nicely underneath laces or as accents when not a lot of it is showing. This fabric is a little more difficult to fine throughout Toronto, however a little searching it can be found throughout the Toronto shopping area. Rafi Michael Babylon Productions Wedding Center ( http://www.videobabylon.ca ) Wedding Photography and Video Dj Limos and Live Band Toronto - Ontario Canada ( 416-663-4784 ) ]]> Decorating With Vertical Blinds http://www.artwoo.com/article/decorating-with-vertical-blinds http://www.artwoo.com/article/decorating-with-vertical-blinds#comments Thu, 01 Feb 2007 06:27:50 +0000 roman shadesroller shadeswindow shadesfabric panelssoft fabricballoonintimidate http://www.artwoo.com/article/decorating-with-vertical-blinds window shades, the better off you'll be when it comes time to make a purchase. The wide array of fabrics, styles and colors are dizzying, and can even the most seasoned shopper.

Here are a few types of shades:

1) . They are they ones you remember from years ago. They're flat, and they're the ones that needed a little tug on the bottom to retract and be stored around the top roller. These shades now come in more colors and patterns than just the white that we knew.

2) Roman. These graceful panels look good no matter what. They're made of a , and when they're down, they lay in graceful graduated folds. When they're raised, the folds gather into tight loops. A cord down one side of the shade controls the movement of the shade. They add a classy look to any room.

3) Cascade. The mechanics are very similar to , but they're designed to go up in irregular shaped folds.

4) Fan. This type of shade is pulled up from the middle, thus causing the outer sides to hang, causing a rounded fan shape.

5) . The on this type of shade are raised irregularly to cause billowing throughout the shade. The cord that threads through rings attached to the bottom of the shade help accentuate the ballooning. The variations of this are the skirted balloon, which is the balloon with a flat panel on the bottom, and the tailed balloon, where the center of the shade rises in soft folds and the outer sides hang down, and the cloud, which is the addition of a gathered heading for a different effect.

6) Austrian. The generous fabric in the panel is twice as long as the drop. When the shade is in the lowered position, soft scalloped folds are created.

7) Pleated. These panels are made of folded paper or fabric. The paper shades are popular among the budget-conscious as well as the "newly-moved-in". The paper shades are reasonably priced and are affixed by an adhesive strip on the shade.

Details help create a finished look. You can use tassels, fringe, rickrack or other edgings. So even if you don't want to make new shades, you can add your own little touch to store-bought ones.

These shades can stand alone or be combined with other window treatments like curtains or valances for a finished look.

Use your imagination and discover a shade style that works for you! Greg Hansward works most often for http://www.shades-blinds-shutters-guide.com , an online publication covering information on vertical blinds and interior decorating. His writings on shades are found on http://www.shades-blinds-shutters-guide.com and also other online publications. ]]> 5 Important Tips For Buying Discount Quilting Fabric on eBay http://www.artwoo.com/article/5-important-tips-for-buying-discount-quilting-fabric-on-ebay http://www.artwoo.com/article/5-important-tips-for-buying-discount-quilting-fabric-on-ebay#comments Wed, 05 Nov 2008 04:43:22 +0000 discount quilting fabricfabric squaresstale cigarette smokefabric descriptionebay sellerskona bayquality fabric http://www.artwoo.com/article/5-important-tips-for-buying-discount-quilting-fabric-on-ebay discount quilting fabric squares on ebay? Buying pre-shrunk, precision cut cotton online can not only save you money, but is a great way to accumulate a nice selection of fabrics without having to buy in bulk.

Here are 5 useful tips for buying discount quilting fabric on eBay:

You Get What You Pay For

You should always look for brand name fabrics. If you are going to spend countless hours, creating a quilt, you only want to use . Alot of will feature cheap, chain store fabric that is poor quality. Look for names like Timeless Treasures, Alexander Henry, , and Michael Miller, just to name a few.

Read The Item Description

Be sure to read the quilting carefully. Oftentimes, a seller will not feature a picture of the fabric they are selling. Some sellers don't own high-quality cameras or scanners. If you don't take this into consideration, you may be disappointed when the fabric will turn out to be a completely different shade or color than the picture that was featured in the auction. An honest, experienced seller will disclose this in the description but some do not.

Beware Of Stinky Fabric

The smell of the fabric is just as important as the appearance. If you have allergies or are sensitive to odors, you should ask if the quilting fabric came from a smoke-free home. Most sellers will disclose this information but as is the case with fabric descriptions, some do not. There is nothing worse than opening up a package of quilting fabric and smelling , mold, or other weird scents!

Check Quantity As Well As Quality

Be sure to check the quantity of the quilting fabric being offered for sale in the description. If you're searching for fat quarters and aren't careful, you may end up bidding for yardage of fabric you don't need! Fat quarters, btw, are the smaller 'sampler size pieces' of fabric. They are generally around 18" by 22" in size. Fat quarters are a nice size for smaller projects or for larger quilts that feature smaller pieces of fabric.

Shipping Costs Can Add Up

Always remember to figure shipping costs when calculating the price of the fabric. Don't forget that fabric shipped via Priority mail, international, as well as special shipping requests will all add to the shipping cost. Not every seller charges 'actual' shipping costs, either. Special 'handling' costs can include such items as tape, packing envelopes, time spent packing the quilting fabric, etc.

If you follow these five tips, buying discount quilting fabric on eBay will be a pleasant and rewarding experience!Find great deals and selection on Discount Quilting Fabric at: ==> http://bobbinandthimblequilting.com/]]> A Fundamental Part of Interior Design http://www.artwoo.com/article/a-fundamental-part-of-interior-design http://www.artwoo.com/article/a-fundamental-part-of-interior-design#comments Sun, 12 Oct 2008 13:43:21 +0000 curtain lining fabricpatchwork fabricscurtain fabricblackout liningsflower bloomsreversible fabricscottage atmosphere http://www.artwoo.com/article/a-fundamental-part-of-interior-design
In order to harmonise a room the chosen should provide both efficiency and practicality as well as a coordinating or contrasting the colour scheme. All weights of curtain fabric are available in a variety of plain and patterned colours.

Handmade patchwork curtain fabric provides a cottage feel which is clean and bright, are ideal for use in a nursery when made in crisp pastel colours. Alternatively a can be created by using floral fabrics which radiate natural flowers and plants. For a contemporary cottage look fabric which has large designs with skeleton outlines of leaves and and petals look striking against plain walls. Patchwork curtain fabric which has two completely different material textures such as taffeta and chenille provides both a visually appealing and tactile curtain.

Many fabrics are reversible which offers a professional look from both inside and outside of the home. These are ideal for people who prefer not to have a blind or net curtain.

High quality woven chenille curtain fabric offers a good amount of heat insulation and when lined this quality can be increased. A should be used on all curtains as this does not only help prevent the fabric from fading in the sun but also helps the curtain to hang correctly. are the perfect solution to prevent unwanted light from entering a room.

Vertically striped curtain fabric are an ideal way to provide the illusion of height to a room as the eye is drawn down the stripes, when teamed with coordinating scatter cushions made with horizontal striped fabric a room can have a very contemporary feel.

One of the most recent fashion trends in window dressings is to have curtain which are made with eye-let headings, the eye-lets being covered with metal rings. Fabrics such as faux suede or faux leather can be used to make this style of curtain or a band of faux suede in a contrasting colour can be teamed with a completely different weight of fabric to achieve a really modern look.

Sheer curtain fabric such as voile, faux silk or hessian are a great way to cover a window to provide much needed privacy and to help retain the privacy at night, when the interior light is switched on, many of these delicate fabrics can be lined with conventional curtain ling or blackout lining.

A whole host of traditional woven damask fabric in a vast array of colours are widely available. The distinct overall patterning remain a very popular choice of curtain fabric in a traditional style home. The weight of this popular fabric is perfect for making curtains and soft furnishings for living and sleeping areas.Terry's Fabrics offers you a variety of fabric options for the curtains you decide to put up in your home or office windows.]]> Overcome The Dread Of Selecting Fabric For Your Window Curtains http://www.artwoo.com/article/overcome-the-dread-of-selecting-fabric-for-your-window-curtains http://www.artwoo.com/article/overcome-the-dread-of-selecting-fabric-for-your-window-curtains#comments Mon, 05 Nov 2007 17:25:05 +0000 light fabricfabric typesunlightcotton sateendreadingcurtainsformal occasions http://www.artwoo.com/article/overcome-the-dread-of-selecting-fabric-for-your-window-curtains dreading making the decision of how to decorate them? Well here are some hints and information that can help you immediately.

Of the wide variety of window treatments available, the most common selection is fabric . There are many styles of fabrics, with a seemingly infinite list of choices. When considering which fabric to use for your curtains, take into account the factors discussed below before making a final decision.

First, you will want to consider how much light you would like to allow into the room. If you would like to have a bright, warm room, select a thin, with a light color and soft patterns. If you would like to have a darker, cooler room, select a heavy drape with a darker color. It is also important to keep in mind how much the window typically gets and the size of the room before making a final selection. If the room is small and receives a great deal of sunlight, you may still need to choose a relatively dark material, even if you wish the room to receive a good amount of sunlight. Similarly, if the room is large and the windows receive very little sunlight, you will not need a very dark or heavy drape to keep the room dark.

By this point, you have narrowed in on the thickness of the fabric and how light or dark it will be. Now, you should find a specific fabric that meets the needs of your room. In choosing a final color, consider the color of the furniture in the room and find a fabric that matches nicely. When selecting the to use, consider the tone of your room. If the room is used for , consider a fabric such as silk, velvet, velveteen, brocade, damask or faille. If the room is somewhat informal, choose from , linen, sheeting, boucl=E9 and chintz. If it is a casual room, use denim, canvas, tweed, burlap, corduroy, broadcloth, muslin, poplin or suede cloth. In addition to the tone of the room, consider the upholstery of the furniture and find a fabric that is similar in feel and look.

Before you purchase the fabric, you must determine its length and height, as well as the length and thickness of the pole. To do this, you must first measure your window. The width of the curtain should be slightly more than the width of the window. In order to determine the length of the pole from which to hang the curtain, you must first decide on the length of the curtain. Will it be floor length, sill length, or below sill length? The thickness of the pole must also be considered. It will depend primarily on the weight of the fabric used.

Lastly, you may wish to consider lining your curtain. This protects it from damage due to dust and sunlight, and assists in insulating the room. Liners are typically used on dark curtains, in rooms in which you wish to keep the sunlight out and the temperature low. You do not need to line your fabric curtains if they are light, as you don't want to keep out too much sunlight or reduce the temperature of the room. For your home needs, Peter recommends using a Joann Coupon http://www.couponkathy.com/coupons/crafts/joann-coupons.htm and Sharper Image Coupon http://www.couponkathy.com/coupons/specialty/sharper-image-coupons.htm at CouponKathy.com. ]]> Guide To Decorating With Drapery Fabric http://www.artwoo.com/article/guide-to-decorating-with-drapery-fabric http://www.artwoo.com/article/guide-to-decorating-with-drapery-fabric#comments Thu, 11 Jan 2007 00:27:03 +0000 discount drapery fabricsewingjabotmatchduvet coverwindow coveringsrepetitive pattern http://www.artwoo.com/article/guide-to-decorating-with-drapery-fabric discount drapery fabric. You'll be glad to know as well that this fabric can be used for much more than just drapes. If you're new home design includes re-doing pillows, or a slip cover on your couch, or even a , this discounted fabric will help you achieve your look.

Many of the greatest decorators really dislike . Of course they surely know how to do it, however they would rather just come up with ways to get around doing it, while using their secret tools of the trade as well as the discounted decoration fabrics.

If you're looking to create a polished look without sewing then using folding fabric is a great option for you. You may be looking for something that's going to keep its shape and be able to drape easily. In this case accordion folds are the way to go for you. If you simply feed the ends of fabric through a sconce or some type of decorative ring on the wall after it's been folded then you'll have created a tailed . You may have to discretely tack the center to the wall if it seems to be too droopy.

Also, if you're looking for another option to sewing, using adhesives that are heat activated will work well for you. This is a web type of fabric that sometimes comes with a paper backing. You'll iron the fabric to activate the glue that holds the fabric together. Some of these are not washable afterwards, so be sure to check with the manufacturer to be sure.

Sewing does help open up possibilities for you however. Even if you're not the greatest sewer in the world there are still projects that you can do with the discounted drapery. Beginners should stick with more of a solid fabric, or something with a small and . When the are hanging, it gets to be very difficult to plaids or stripes. So you don't want to give yourself away as an amateur by not using a material that you can match easily.

An easy out for the beginner is to choose a tone on tone type of fabric, which is a fabric with textures, however the color of the background is the very same as the pattern. This way you can easily sew but not have to worry about matching the patterns as much.

Another great item that you can create with the material is a pillow case. You simply need to cut a pattern that will match the size of the pillow foam, and add either a zipper or some type of decorative draw sting for easy off and on action for cleaning.

These are just a few of the things that you can do with discounted drapery fabric, but the possibilities are almost endless. Use your imagination and see what else you can improve in your home. Focusing on informating about decorating, Leroy Calstard published almost entirely for http://www.curtains-drapes-coverings.com . You might find out more about his articles over at http://www.curtains-drapes-coverings.com/discount-drapery-fabric.html and different sources for discount drapery fabric ]]> Cozy Your Baby In These 10 Soft Blanket Fabrics http://www.artwoo.com/article/cozy-your-baby-in-these-10-soft-blanket-fabrics http://www.artwoo.com/article/cozy-your-baby-in-these-10-soft-blanket-fabrics#comments Sat, 01 Dec 2007 19:25:00 +0000 fleece baby blanketpolyester fabricchenilleflanneltypes of fabricssilk satinblankets http://www.artwoo.com/article/cozy-your-baby-in-these-10-soft-blanket-fabrics blankets give new mothers something cuddly to wrap her baby in. Blankets are available in and unending number of designs, colors, and styles, and can be had with plush lining and trim. They are also available in many , which is the subject of this article. Here's a listing of the ten most popular baby blanket fabrics and what you can expect to spend on them.

Cotton

Cotton is the most well known fabric in existence today. It can be washed by machine and is extremely versatile - it can be woven, knitted, and dye any color you can imagine. Generally priced in the $10-$40 range, it can become more expensive with an elaborate design. The packaging may also influence the price.



A light- or medium-weight cloth, flannel can be made in several ways, primarily a blend of wool and cotton or wool and a synthetic fiber. These blankets are generally available in the same price range as cotton, $10-$40.



Usually made from cotton, this fabric can be distinguished by its manufacturing process. First the fibers are spun into a tightly wound core, then piles (short lengths of fabric) are wrapped around so its edges stand at right angles from the core. This gives chenille its characteristic look and makes it feel so soft. A blanket made from chenille is a little more costly than one made from cotton or flannel, ranging from $25 to $60 in cost.

Fleece

I bet you think you know what this is made from, but you're wrong. You're confusing this with the wool of sheep. As used in a , the term describes a . There's no wool in a fleece baby blanket! Prices can range from $10 all the way to $70.

Satin

Once very expensive because it was made from silk, satin is currently produced from nylon, rayon, acetate, and polyester. This provides a much more affordable way to attain the glossy finish the fabric is known for. Although still costing $50 or more, satin baby blankets are much less expensive today than they were when they were made from silk.

Alpaca

The original source for alpaca wool is the Peruvian alpaca, but the term now refers to a more generic style of fabric. It can be made from Icelandic sheep wool, high-quality English wool, or mohair, and is available in a wide price range. Expect to pay a minimum of $30 but the cost could go above $120.

Cashmere

Obtained from the cashmere goat, this wool is renowned for its legendary softness. One of the more expensive fabrics to choose for a baby blanket, expect to pay from $80 to more than $200 for a cashmere blanket.

Merino

Merino is a less expensive alternative to cashmere. Originating in Spain, it comes from a breed of white fine-wooled sheep that produce an exceptional quality of fleece. It looks and feels very similar to cashmere, but baby blankets made from merino will cost significantly less - about $30 to $120.

Velvet

Considered a luxury fabric because it requires multiple steps to manufacture and more thread per square inch than other fabrics, velvet can be made from many fibers, including cotton, silk, and synthetics. Prices for velvet baby blankets range from $40 to more than $150.

Charmeuse Silk

Charmeuse silk is the most expensive fabric used to make baby blankets. Shiny and very smooth, a blanket made from the "silk of the emperors" will make a great impression on the new parents and show just how much they and the baby mean to you. With a beautiful drape and an elegant luster, a blanket made from charmeuse silk will cost about $300. Maybe not the most practical fabric to catch baby's messes, but it'll definitely feel nice. To save money on household items, Vince suggests using a http://www.couponkathy.com/coupons/crafts/joann-coupons.htm Joann Coupon and a Sharper Image Coupon http://www.couponkathy.com/coupons/specialty/sharper-image-coupons.htm from CouponKathy.com. ]]> Designing Handwoven Fabric http://www.artwoo.com/article/designing-handwoven-fabric http://www.artwoo.com/article/designing-handwoven-fabric#comments Sun, 05 Nov 2006 02:27:01 +0000 curtain fabricwool fabricfabric structurefabric structureslinen fabricsilk yarnsize yarn http://www.artwoo.com/article/designing-handwoven-fabric silk yarn for a washcloth or rug, or a scratchy synthetic yarn for a delicate blouse fabric.

Secondly, the appropriate sett for the used or the desired effect wanted in the fabric. Too close and the fabric will be hard, too open and it will be gauzy.

Thirdly, the right beat. Beating too briskly and too hard will result in a hard fabric and if the sett is open enough, a weft faced fabric. Uneven beating will cause streakiness in the fabric.

The right is important for the item made from the fabric. Long floats that may get pulled would be inappropriate for baby blankets or outerwear. However, floats are ok for , shawls, scarves and dressy fabrics.

Proper finishing is just as important as the initial design draft. A woven almost calls out loud for wet finishing. softens considerably when wet finished. Wet finishing may not be appropriate for rayon fabrics. Some chenilles will worm when wet finished. Cotton and silk fabrics take on a luster when wet finished. Certain are enhanced by wet finishing. Huck, Swedish lace and honeycomb are structures which become more sculptural when washed. The cells of honeycomb, especially those woven of wool, become deeper when wet finished.

When combining wool and cotton in warp, an even distribution of yarns can prevent uneven shrinkage when the fabric is finished. It is that characteristic that can be exploited to create interesting effects like seersucker. The wool will shrink more than the cotton, causing the puckering effect.

Wool is lighter than cotton. It is a great choice for garments that will require a large amount of yardage. Wool yarns come in a huge array of weights, colors, plies, and also is available in boucles, novelties, and thick and thin. Handspun wool yarn is simply a joy to weave with. Contrary to popular belief, handspun singles can be used as warp by sizing. A can of spray sizing, sprayed on the warp behind the heddles, will be dry by the time it is in place to be woven and will help prevent stickiness and breakage. Kimberly Thane is an author, spinner, weaver and business owner. See more of her articles at http://www.woolbearers.net ]]> What to Do When You Find a Stain on Your Merino Wool Products http://www.artwoo.com/article/what-to-do-when-you-find-a-stain-on-your-merino-wool-products http://www.artwoo.com/article/what-to-do-when-you-find-a-stain-on-your-merino-wool-products#comments Mon, 20 Oct 2008 01:22:27 +0000 scorch marksmerino woolwool productsclean ragred winegunkorder of business http://www.artwoo.com/article/what-to-do-when-you-find-a-stain-on-your-merino-wool-products
Don't Panic, It Can be Done

If in fact, one of your belongings gets stained, there are very easy ways to get them out without compromising the fabric. As long as you care for your merino the way the manufacturers recommend, getting rid of stains may be easier than it would be if it was made of any other fabric. Taking care of your merino wool will ensure that your initial investment of a few dollars can take care of you and your family for many years to come.

• Blood - Whether it comes from a new tooth or it comes from a meeting between head and hard surfaces, blood may be one of the most difficult stains to remove. When you are dealing with merino wool, you can remove the stain quickly and easily. Work your way from the outside to the inside and blot gently. You want to keep the stain from spreading any further, so do not rub the stain. Use a soft, that is dampened with cold water to work the stain.

• Burns - If one of your guests inadvertently burns or scorches your merino wool upholstery or rug, the first is to brush the ashes, burn or with a soft brush before you begin to try and clean it. Once you have removed the offending material, gently soak a piece of material in peroxide and water and gently dab the affected area. Remember not to rub, as this may spread the stain further.

• Butter and Oils - If you drop anything on your wool that is oil based, the first thing you should do is to scoop as much of the offending off as possible. These stain producers may be ice cream, salad dressing, butter, or any oils used for cooking.

• - This can be the one stain that most people fear. Red wine can stain quickly and easily. When you have a merino wool product that has been splashed with red wine, you should immediately blot the stain and cover with a substance that is absorbent such as talcum powder or salt. Leave it to absorb overnight, and then vacuum the next day.

Time is of The Essence

The highest success rates of removing stains from merino wool as with any fabric is speed. It is said that if you treat 9 out of 10 spots immediately and with the proper cleaning methods, you can remove them without anyone ever knowing they were there. If you have fine merino wool products in your closet and the rest of your home as well, keeping an emergency kit for unexpected stains can go a long way in enjoying your belongings for a long time to come.Brenda Reese writes for a pashmina company and is based in Tokyo.]]> Babydolls: Innocent And Yet Naughty http://www.artwoo.com/article/babydolls-innocent-and-yet-naughty http://www.artwoo.com/article/babydolls-innocent-and-yet-naughty#comments Tue, 01 May 2007 13:00:00 +0000 risque lingeriesatin and lacelace fabricsheer fabricsheer babydollbaby doll lingerieexotic lingerie http://www.artwoo.com/article/babydolls-innocent-and-yet-naughty baby doll lingerie is hot. There are demure sets and more risqu=E9 sets. What is even more fabulous about babydolls is that they are more affordable than other styles of nightwear. So you can have your and your comfy set too.

Lingerie today comes in every imaginable fabric from satin to pure 100 percent cotton. Lace is no longer irritating to the skin, but soft and subtle. Elastic isn't stiff but equally stretchy and comfortable. It is a good time to be a woman shopping for lingerie.

Baby dolls lingerie conveys an innocent yet naughty look. When shopping for a new babydoll set, determine the message you want to send to your man. You want to be seen as a pretty princess, choose a lace babydoll. Are you trying to tempt him into bed? Go with a set. Going for the naughty look? Try perusing the adult selections on the web.

Beautiful lace baby dolls can be found just about anywhere from discount stores to high end boutiques. The lace elements are usually found in the bodice and along the bottom of the gown and detailing the panties. Often lace is combined with silk or satin. However, some lace babydolls are just that, they are made of . They give your viewer a delightful peek a boo hint of your skin. The all lace sets are usually very soft and comfortable to wear.

Sheer babydolls have in the gown. The bodice may be made of lace or satin. But it can also be sheer. The panties may be solid or sheer as well. Sheer fabric is very erotic as it can be seen through but there is just a hint of barrier. This gives your lover something to look forward to taking off of you. When purchasing sheer babydolls, be sure they fit properly. Sheer fabric does not have much give in it and will feel restricted if the item is too small for you.

When shopping for adult exotic lingerie, a baby doll is still a great choice. Exotic lingerie tends to be more revealing and isn't really designed as sleepwear. However, this should not stop you from considering it. Every woman needs at least one piece of exotic lingerie. We often think of men buying exotic lingerie for us, but why not buy a piece for yourself? Are you planning a weekend getaway or maybe a long vacation? Go lingerie shopping and surprise him with risque lingerie pieces such as a baby doll with a tiny thong.

For everyday sleepwear, baby dolls are cool and comfortable. Many women dislike long gowns as they tend to ride up as we sleep. This problem is solved with a baby doll. The next time you are shopping for new nightwear, consider a cotton or satin babydoll in a fun and colorful fabric. Throw out the tired out T-shirt and put it on. Your husband will be sure to appreciate it.

A quick word about your baby doll panties. The bottom pieces of babydoll sets come in all the styles that panties come in. This means you can have boy cut panties or a sexy thong. Usually the style of panty mirrors that of the baby doll gown. Really it is all up to you, go with what is comfortable or be adventuresome.

Babydolls are a fabulous way to be fun and adventuresome. They are hip, cute and affordable. Let's go shopping today! Amanda Cotterill has been involved in the intimate apparel sector for many years. This article outlines the benefits of women wearing baby doll lingerie of the type shown on http://www.maryjanelingerie.co.uk/babydolls/. Please include this credit if you use this article. ]]> Vertical Blinds Can Add Life To Every Room http://www.artwoo.com/article/vertical-blinds-can-add-life-to-every-room http://www.artwoo.com/article/vertical-blinds-can-add-life-to-every-room#comments Thu, 08 Jun 2006 00:32:06 +0000 vertical blindswood blindsaluminum blindsvinyl blindshorizontal blindssliding glass doorssideways http://www.artwoo.com/article/vertical-blinds-can-add-life-to-every-room Vertical blinds not only add value and beauty to your room but are also an inexpensive way to decorate your rooms. Vertical blinds come in various materials and provide a good alternative to curtains or shutters.

Vertical blinds provide better light control than and have also proved to be steadier than horizontal blinds. As vertical blinds can be opened , these work not only for windows but also for doors. A combination of vertical blinds with can do wonders to your room. Vertical blinds can be opened from either side or from the middle.

The vanes of your vertical blinds can be made either from aluminum, vinyl, wood, faux wood, or fabric. The choice of material will depend on your personal preferences. are a low-cost option and are durable and easy to maintain. are best for high-humidity locations such as kitchens or bathrooms.

If you have wooden furniture in your room then vertical will be a good choice. Wood blinds are best suited for stable and humidity-controlled environments. Wood blinds come in both solid colors and wood tones. Due to their natural look and better insulation capabilities, wood blinds are the most expensive. Wood blinds need more care than vinyl or aluminum blinds. However, if you want the look of wood but the advantages of vinyl blinds, then you can go for faux wood vertical blinds. These wood look-alikes are made of a combination of wood and vinyl; are easy to clean and do not fade or crack.

Vertical blind made of fabric are the best option for your living room. Owing to their opacity, fabric vertical blinds do not stop light totally from entering your room. Thus, giving a wonderful effect of light and shade to your room. Fabric vertical blinds will need inserts, which provide stability for the tilting mechanism of your blinds and are also useful for sustaining the life of the fabric.

Vertical blinds may be controlled by either a cord or a safety wand. Wands have become more popular nowadays as they have the dual advantage of being more functional and durable than cords. A simple twist of the wand will rotate open or close the vanes while pulling the wand across the blind will draw the vanes back and forth.

Proper care is important for your vertical blinds. Vinyl and aluminum vertical blinds can be cleaned with a damp soft cloth, wood or fabric blinds may be feather dusted or vacuumed. Sylvia Waterstone is a home improvement enthusiast. To find out more on vertical blinds check out http://www.best-vertical-blinds.info and http://www.vertical-blinds-resource.info.. ]]> How To Make Country Christmas Ornaments http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-to-make-country-christmas-ornaments http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-to-make-country-christmas-ornaments#comments Thu, 16 Nov 2006 18:27:06 +0000 scrap fabriccraft gluestyrofoam ballstyrofoam ballschristmas craft projectornament hangerpaint craft http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-to-make-country-christmas-ornaments
These ornaments can be made from you already have on hand. They are called andquot;country ornamentsandquot; because of their homemade, handspun look. They look best when made from leftover quilting scraps. I decided to recycle some fabric from my boys' crib sheet that was ripped and ready to be thrown away. I thought it would make a great keepsake for family members to use the fabric from the sheet to make the Christmas ornaments, as well as a great way to recycle the fabric.

Here are the supplies you will need:

3andquot; s Scrap fabric Scissors Small paintbrush

You will only need four or five strips of fabric to cover each ball. Cut a strip of fabric approximately 1 1/2 inches wide and long enough to wrap completely around the styrofoam ball. Cut five of these strips. Cut one extra strip a little bit narrower to use for the .

Spread out a piece of newspaper to work on and use the paint brush to glue on the back of a strip of fabric. Make sure to liberally cover the fabric so that it will completely adhere to the styrofoam.

Wrap the strip of fabric around the styrofoam ball and hold it there for a couple of seconds until the glue begins to dry. Glue on the other strips the same way until the ball is covered. When gluing the last strip on, thread the piece you are going to use for the hanger under the strip on one end before you press that last piece down (see photo). Tie the ends of the hanger together.

Press down all the strips of fabric to smooth out any gaps in the fabric. Use the paintbrush to add glue to any spots you missed.

That's it! An easy you can make in less than an hour. Make a few to add to the top of your Christmas packages this year to give them some andquot;countryandquot; appeal.

Photos of finished ornaments: http://www.crafty-moms.com/country-christmas-ornament.shtml Rachel Paxton is a freelance writer and mom who is the author of What's for Dinner?, an e-cookbook containing more than 250 quick easy dinner ideas. For more recipes, organizing tips, home decorating, crafts, holiday hints, and more, visit Creative Homemaking at http://www.creativehomemaking.com ]]> The Proof is in the Pudding When it Comes to Merino Wool http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-proof-is-in-the-pudding-when-it-comes-to-merino-wool http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-proof-is-in-the-pudding-when-it-comes-to-merino-wool#comments Mon, 20 Oct 2008 00:57:39 +0000 slice of heavenclothing manufacturerslittle slicemany other typeswater repellentuv protectionsoftness http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-proof-is-in-the-pudding-when-it-comes-to-merino-wool clothing manufacturers know that merino wool is superior to most other fabrics, but many consumers don't know much about why that is. They appreciate the durability and of their clothes, but there is so much more to appreciate when it comes to merino wool.

Merino Wool is Good for the Environment

Ensuring your clothing is made from merino wool is a step forward for the environment. Merino wool is considered a sustainable and biodegradable resource that benefits the environment. Sheep are living creatures, and the only chemicals they emit are the ones that human beings put into them.

A Plethora of Attributes

Merino wool has many beneficial attributes because the yarn is made from a source that was once living and breathing. As nature is the best designer, when she designed merino wool, she ensured that it would be naturally , as well as resilient and stain resistant. When you wear apparel that is made with merino wool, you will not have the problem of static cling that you experience with of fabric.

When you wear merino wool, you can be sure that the fabric will allow your skin to breathe so that it won't become itchy and irritated. It helps to remove sweat from the skin and it has odor reducing agents for those that want to use merino wool for sports related activities.

Warm When You Need it

Being wrapped in soft and luxuriant merino wool on a cold and bleak day is more than just comfort; it is a little . Merino wool will keep you warmer than just about any other fabric or material you can find. It has been used for centuries to keep out the cold and it has natural too.

When you need to stay cool, merino wool can do that for you too. When you wear merino wool when you sweat, it absorbs moisture and blocks it from wetting your skin. No matter what the climate you expect to be in, merino wool is the perfect fabric for all your clothing needs.

Easy to Care For

Taking care of clothing made of merino wool is fairly easy too. Merino wool has stain resistant properties which make it the perfect garment for babies and young children as well as properties for ant-wrinkling. It has greater elasticity than other fabrics and when cared for properly, rarely loses its shape. Merino wool is a durable fabric that is often machine washable.

Merino Wool Looks Great Too

Nothing says quality and style quite like merino wool. You can find this luxurious fabric in a variety of colors, styles and uses. Merino wool fits neatly into any lifestyle as it is affordable and readily available. If you want to stay warm and dry and look good while you are doing it, the choice should be obvious. Wear merino wool apparel and reap the benefits that have been long known to the fashion industry as well as to a simple farmer.Brenda Reese is based in Tokyo and works for a merino shawl retailer, http://pashminainternational.com/]]> Valance Curtains Add A Special Touch http://www.artwoo.com/article/valance-curtains-add-a-special-touch http://www.artwoo.com/article/valance-curtains-add-a-special-touch#comments Sun, 12 Aug 2007 06:35:03 +0000 window valancesballoon valancesdouble fabricswag valancedecorative bracketsmatchwindow coverings http://www.artwoo.com/article/valance-curtains-add-a-special-touch window valances.



Window valances come in as many choices of size, design, color and texture as any other curtain, and can be used alone or in conjunction with another type of curtain. They work beautifully with shades, blinds and shutters, because you can open the shade, blind or shutter to expose the view and still have a decorative accent on your window, or you can close the shade, blind or shutter for light or privacy at night. You can find valances in no sew patterns or you can have elaborate valances that have been crafted by a professional. Just as with other , valances can your d=E9cor and be formal, casual, heavy or light. Some valances are soft and loosely shaped, while others can be very shaped and stiff. There are many types of valances.

Here are just a few:

A balloon valance is a puffed up piece of . The top piece over the rod is made to be gathered and stand up. The fabric of the valance is pinched together, puffing out the areas between. Frequently, tissue is placed between the pieces of fabric so that the balloon effect is even more exagerated. Light cottons and other such fabric are used for this type of valance. Solids, patterns or stripes all work well for .

The does just what its name implies: it swags down from the rod. It can be very short, and just hang down a short way, or go all the way down to the floor. are used to hold each end of the fabric before it swags down. The fabric is folded, accordion style, then passed through the brackets to fall gracefully down. If a window is very wide, an additional support may be needed between the two brackets to support the exta length of fabric. Depending on the look that is desired, sheer fabric works very well, but a dramatic effect can be achieved with heavy draping fabric. A pleated valance is a more formal look, with the shape of the valance cut and lined so it maintains its pleats. Valances such as this are frequently scalloped on the bottom, with a trim or border. Usually such valances are custom made by professionals. The pleated valance is hung on a board with brackets and the fabric is attached to the shelf created by the board.



Whatever kind of valance you use, make the most of this design technique by using the proper placement. Short windows need a valance that is placed very high and creates an illusion of height. A tall window can be made to appear shorter by placing the valance lower on the window surface. For it to look the best, don't put the valance more than a third down the window. However, if you have tall double hung windows, you can put a valance at the top of the lower part of the window and give the whole window the appearance of being lower.

Except for the very formal pleated valances, anyone can make window valances, even if they have no experience with sewing. The most important guideline is to follow the d=E9cor of the room. The window valances should blend in with the decoration of the room and not compete with it. Kenneth Morris pens at large for http://www.curtains-drapes-coverings.com , a website with topics around curtains and interior design. Writing for reports (such as http://www.curtains-drapes-coverings.com/window-valance.html on window valance ) he established his capability in the area. ]]> How To Make Your Own Shoe Bags http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-to-make-your-own-shoe-bags http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-to-make-your-own-shoe-bags#comments Tue, 15 Jul 2008 05:36:18 +0000 clearing clutterfamily heirloomsbarbie dollsshoe bagstoday many peoplesoft fabrictraditional shoe http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-to-make-your-own-shoe-bags Shoe bags are small bags made out of cloth to protect your shoes whilst travelling or storing them in your closet. Shoe bags are excellent little bags to have and they can be use for many purposes, including a marketing tool for your business. They can definitely be considered a promotional tool that is a little out of the norm and unique, making it more memorable.

Traditionally shoe bags were made at home, often from scraps of material and have a string top. still have the bag made at home, although you can purchase a shoe bag, if you wish.

Once shoe bags were very popular and then it became old fashioned to own a shoe bag. Now storage bags have become very popular again, and companies are making little shoe bags for everything including make up, sun glasses and cameras.

Shoe bags were designed to protect your shoes from dust and dirt when in storage, and also the assist in keeping the shoe shinny. Shoe bags are excellent when travelling, not only to protect your shoes, but to stop your shoes soiling your clothes in the suitcase.

Shoe bags are excellent to take to any sporting activities that require you to change your shoes. -- golf, tennis, bowling, gym, dance lessons and football, as you can place the spare set of shoes in the shoe bag, with no fear of loosing one. Also if the shoes get dirty or muddy, they can easily be placed in the shoe bag, without worry of dirt or mud marking your sports bag, clothe or car.

These nifty little shoe bags, can be use for any purpose. Some people store gloves, cameras, photos, important documents and even the in shoe bags. Shoe bags are also a great way to store children's toys including Lego, small cars and .

Shoe bags are excellent space savers and great for . Just place your items in shoe bags, and then hang them by the cord inside a spare wardrobe or behind the door.

To make your own shoe bag is very simple and really only takes about fifteen minutes. First you will need a piece of fabric, cord or ribbon for the draw string and a sewing machine. If you don't have a sewing machine, you can hand stitch your shoe bag

To make a shoe bag cut your chosen fabric to 50cm by 30 cm. Then fold the fabric with longer length (50cm) of fabric down 3 cm. Ensure the right side of the fabric is folded over the wrong and sew along the 3cm folded down section to secure. Now fold the fabric in half with the right sides of the fabric facing together. Now sew the other two sides together leaving holes for the drawstring cord or ribbon. Using a safety pin feed the cord or ribbon through the bag. Turn your little bag inside out, and you now have your own little shoe bag. Sometimes you will need to adjust the size of the fabric to the desired size of your bag.

Shoe bags are amazingly versatile little storage bags, which can be used for many different purposes. Every home can always find a need for a little shoe bag. Next time you are looking for a fun way to promote your business, consider branded shoe bags.Miles Lovegrove is director of Fluid Branding, the UK's largest supplier of Promotional Shoe Bags and Branded Shoe Bags at www.fluidbranding.com. For Eco Friendly promotional products, including Recycled, Organic and Sustainable items visit www.ecoincentives.com]]> Discount Drapery Fabric Makes Home Design Inexpensive http://www.artwoo.com/article/discount-drapery-fabric-makes-home-design-inexpensive http://www.artwoo.com/article/discount-drapery-fabric-makes-home-design-inexpensive#comments Sat, 24 Mar 2007 22:51:56 +0000 discount drapery fabricdrapery fabricswashable fabricduvet coverssolid fabricsrich fabricsthrow pillows http://www.artwoo.com/article/discount-drapery-fabric-makes-home-design-inexpensive discount drapery fabric. Not only that, but these can be put to other uses as well. The weight of drapery fabric makes it ideal for slipcovers for furniture, and . Should you sew your own? Even some of the best decorators, who know how to sew very well, try to avoid it and find other ways to make things. You can use some of their creative tricks as well. Using discount in creative ways can save you a lot of money. Fabric folding is one of the ways that you can create a decorator look without sewing.

Folding the fabric in an accordion and then draping and feeding it through pretty sconces or rings on the wall will create a beautiful jabot curtain, tails and all. When you have a curtain with a droopy center, you can just tack the middle to the wall. Adhesive strips are another no-sew way to create beautiful décor. This web-like fabric is ironed onto the back of a fabric and will hold two pieces of a fabric together, or adhere the fabric to another surface.

You have to make sure whether or not the the strips are washable; if you are using a non- it may not matter, but if you want to be able to wash your curtains, it will. If you do decide to sew, you really open up a world of possibilities. Even from a novice sewer to an expert seamstress, there is a kind of sewing that can make use of discount drapery fabrics. Beginner sewers should use , or ones with a very simple, small design; using stripes and plaids are difficult to match pieces properly. If the patterns don't match the project will look home made. You want your efforts to look professional, even if they are not. If you choose the right pattern, this is possible. To get the look of a pattern without really having one, you can use tone-on-tone material, where the same colors are used in both the pattern and the background. Mistakes blend more easily into this kind of pattern. Think about using discount drapery fabric for your pillow, throws and table runners.

The heaviness of these fabrics makes it perfect for these types of projects, not just draperies. This goes for any kind of project that calls for a thick fabric. You can use a foam pillow and put a drapery fabric slip over it and have a beautiful sham for the bed. Zippers can be added to make it easy to remove for cleaning. Drapery fabric also lends itself to spot cleaning, so you don't have to bring everything to the cleaners. Table runners are an easy project for a beginner sewer using drapery fabric. Sew a backing of plain material and put a fringe or beading on the ends and you have a lovely decorative addition to your home.

You can use drapery fabric to make simple duvet covers for your bed, and have the advantage of changing your bedroom décor without the expense of new bedspreads. You can make more than one and be able to change the look of the room frequently. Using the same fabric, you can coordinate curtains and pillows to the duvet covers. This is a very affordable way to give yourself a lot of flexibility in decorating. You can find coordinating discount drapery fabrics to allow you to mix and match in your decorating scheme. Concentrating on latest developments in decorating, Leroy Calstard wrote for the most part for http://www.curtains-drapes-coverings.com . His articles on discount drapery fabric can be discovered on http://www.curtains-drapes-coverings.com/discount-drapery-fabric.html as well as other web sites. ]]> Tips For Buying Indian Sarees http://www.artwoo.com/article/tips-for-buying-indian-sarees http://www.artwoo.com/article/tips-for-buying-indian-sarees#comments Thu, 30 Oct 2008 09:50:26 +0000 indian sareesheight girlscrepe fabricmysore silkindian countrieswomen in indianational dress http://www.artwoo.com/article/tips-for-buying-indian-sarees Indian sarees has been traditional, and a beloved dress of Indian women. Majority of wear sarees no matter of which class they are, it is there as well so a special importance is given to it. Sarees are now sold in market of vast variety of range, of different fabrics, light and dark, heavy and light, simple and glossy and many much kinds of it are found in the market. Asian women love sarees and many of them have a vast collection of it. Sarees is a dress that is worn in every occasion, rather the color of saree symbolizes the occasion or the event in which it worn. Anyhow this extent is found in most. No bridal luggage is complete if it doesn't carry plenty of beautiful sarees collection. Anyhow sarees are sold in different fabrics; the expensive ones usually are those that are worked over with sequences or golden thread.

A few tips should be kept in mind always before buying saree for you. One should know well about her body type, skin color and height. These are the three main things one should consider before buying saree for oneself. Usually women ignore and they get what they like for themselves. Saree is a dress that frames your personality, so it a must to seek about yourself before wearing any saree not knowing anything and spoiling your image. Those women who are bulky should buy Georgette, Chiffon or sarees; also heavy sarees help one look thinner than normal. These types of sarees can be expensive but buy before you get to know its price finally. The printing of the sarees also matter a lot, those women who are of short height should wear those sarees that have narrow or no borders, this will avoid huge appearance and the women will definitely look taller than its orignal height. Girls or young women who are thin should get Organza, Cotton and Tissue sarees, these appear to be fluffy and give voluminous appearance so the thin body sets well with the starched type fabric. Sarees should be worn according to the event that is if you wearing in offices or any other formal event than you should see simple floral printed sarees and also the paisley prints look good and soft in such places. Sarees are meant to give sophisticated look, thus select sarees with delicate work on it. It look good to the viewer's eyes and they wearer also feels encircled in a soft image.

Though the saree size and the fabric matters, but the main thing is you get the saree according to your skin tone, the Asian women are usually of dark complexion, few are of fair complexion so it is god to wear soft and light colors. Age also matters a lot; young women should prefer soft and pretty colors and the old age women or the adult one should select color according to their profession and their personality.

Sarees are favorite dress of Indian women, the flavor of wearing and liking of sarees is now spreading world wide, seeking this the designers are now presenting new smart and mind blowing designs of sarees. But the practical point of view says that selection of sarees should be done according to the budget, women think to save money as well so it is better to opt for the saree that is feasible for you in all manners.Buy Indian Sarees and Indian Dresses Online at: www.mianoor.com]]> Caring For Upholstery Fabrics http://www.artwoo.com/article/caring-for-upholstery-fabrics http://www.artwoo.com/article/caring-for-upholstery-fabrics#comments Mon, 04 Jun 2007 03:14:54 +0000 upholstery manufacturersloose dirtfurniture setpiece of furnitureinconspicuous areacleaning solventsfabric http://www.artwoo.com/article/caring-for-upholstery-fabrics furniture set and now you need to take care of it. Having a sofa is great and definitely adds to the beauty and atmosphere of your home, but you also need to know how to clean it and take care of it properly, otherwise you will have a grungy, tattered squatting in the middle of your living room before long. There are several simple steps that you can easily follow to make sure that your beautiful, comfortable couch will look great and last long enough for everyone to enjoy.

Basically, you just have to remember two general rules for cleaning upholstery. Since and stains are the most common factors for soiling your furniture, learning how to deal with them will save you a lot of time and money later in the future. Cleaning up loose dirt can easily be done by vacuuming or just brushing away the dirt. You have to do this as soon as possible, though, before the dirt gets embedded in the . As for cleaning up stains and spills, you can use a dry cloth to soak up and wipe away the liquid.

The best way to clean up your upholstery, however, is to first learn the cleaning codes. Each and every fabric has its own specialized cleaning method, so make sure you know about them. Look for the cleaning codes on one of the attached tags on your furniture, as they will tell you how to properly clean your upholstery. If you can't find the code, try cleaning a little spot in an of the furniture to test for compatibility. There are four cleaning codes that are currently used by . I will tell you about them, as well as the recommended procedures related to each code.

W =96 Vacuuming and light dusting are recommended. Use only water-based cleaning agents or foam from mild detergents or non-solvent upholstery shampoo. Apply the cleaning agent in a circular motion, using a soft cloth or brush.

S =96 You can also vacuum or dust lightly. Use water-free or dry-cleaning solutions for spot cleaning. Be sure to avoid using products with carbon tetrachloride. Use a soft cloth and clean the upholstery in a well-ventilated area. Getting the services of a professional cleaner is also recommended.

WS =96 This is quite easy, since you can practically use any of the recommended methods above. If using a solvent or dry-cleaning product, be sure to do it in a well-ventilated area. Avoid products with carbon tetrachloride.

X =96 Clean your furniture by vacuuming and light dusting ONLY. Avoid using liquid cleaning agents of any kind. Using water-based cleaners or solvents may cause shrinking and/or damage the surface appearance of the upholstery.

Try to clean your upholstery at least every month. If you have a futon, try to flip the cushions over at least once a month, and wash the covers at the same time as well. When you use liquid cleaning agents or foam, you can remove the excess foam with a spatula or even a piece of cardboard. And remember to keep the material as dry as possible during cleaning; this will help keep the fabric from shrinking. Azlan Irda is the co-founder of http://www.aaafabric.com which provides high quality products for all your fabric needs. Visit his website to find out more about the latest high quality fabrics. ]]> Beautiful Designs Found With A Quilting Template http://www.artwoo.com/article/beautiful-designs-found-with-a-quilting-template http://www.artwoo.com/article/beautiful-designs-found-with-a-quilting-template#comments Thu, 01 Mar 2007 04:27:06 +0000 quiltingfabric storeinordinatequiltersspecially designedtemplatesquilt makers http://www.artwoo.com/article/beautiful-designs-found-with-a-quilting-template Quilting is a long cherished skill that has passed down through families for generations. Grandmothers taught mothers who taught daughters the techniques required to produce beautifully crafted quilts that would be admired for years to come. Anyone who has quilted knows the amount of patience it takes to cut and compile the mosaic of patterns that together will make a stunning quilt. But the often overlooked fact of modern quilting is the quilting template, making the art of quilting much less difficult to master.

A quilting template, as it name suggests, is a pre-made design that can use to cut their fabric; it is generally made from a sturdy material such as acrylic, and allows to cut many blocks of fabric at once, or one piece of fabric per design. A quilting template does much to improve consistency and elevate design, and has become more and more popular as a preferred quilting tool. Quilters can actually trace the design from the template onto their fabric, using a fabric pen, and then cut the design out of their fabric with quilting scissors.

For novice quilters, the availability of a quilting template offers a chance to master the art of quilting without being totally left to their own devices. And for veteran quilters who are looking to upgrade or refresh some of their designs, a quilting template introduces a multitude of new ideas they may not have previously considered.

One of the great benefits of the quilting template is its availability. A variety of can be found in any where you can look through books to find the perfect design for you needs. And the Internet has websites exclusively devoted to the quilting template where quilters can search through their inventory and order online. There are even sites that offer downloads of quilting templates that you can print straight from your home computer. Of course, the more creative among us can even create their own quilting template from something they draw freehand onto sturdy paper, transfer to plastic template material, and ultimately use to cut their fabric.

The uses for a quilting template are endless and only limited by your imagination. Take the time to get creative and you'll be surprised and undoubtedly thrilled with your results. For easy to understand, in depth information about quilting visit our ezGuide 2 http://quilting.ezguide2.com ]]>