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Guest Editorial

by Susan Scanlon

Natural fabrics -- cotton, linen and silk -- have always been staple items on the decorator's shopping list. Clients and designers alike appreciate the clean, classic qualities that these fabrics create. But along with their desirability came a hefty price tag. Not only was the original investment enormous, but the cost of the special cleaning and handling necessary to keep their creations looking great also was substantial. As always, necessity is the mother of invention. The demand for versatile fabrics that have the look of natural fibers but are inexpensive and easy to care for have become fundamental elements in the creation of beautiful window treatments and decorator accessories. It is now necessary to create designer treatments that work for the cost-conscious customer. These educated consumers want it all. They employ interior design firms to make their homes, offices or businesses beautiful and functional by insisting that the fabrics used require very little care. Limitless Qualities Sheer fabrics that are 100 percent polyester often are inherently flame retardant. This fact alone can make polyester fabrics the ideal choice for a business that must adhere strictly to stringent guidelines for public safety. No added flame proofing treatments are necessary. There also is no limit on the number of times they can be laundered -- they will never loose their inherent fire-proof features. Initially polyester fabrics can be the most economical choice, and the inexpensive care they require make them cost efficient for many years. Replacement becomes a matter of choice, not necessity. Technological developments have produced wonderful new fabrics that are 100 percent polyester or polyester blends that may include small percentages of cotton, linen or silk. These wonderful textiles are practical as well as beautiful. An interesting assortment of textures and a limitless choice of colors are available to fashion fabulous window treatments that reflect the personal taste of the client and the exciting elements of design from the decorator. Lace, always classic, is available in intricately knitted designs complete with finished scalloped hems. Wonderfully elegant but easy to work on, these 100 percent polyester fabrics need only to be top finished and they are ready to hang! Washable moires, bengalines and satins are available in dozens of vibrant colors. The limits of your imagination are the only ones you should encounter. Top of the List Textiles for the home furnishings industry have achieved a level of performance that works so well they become the most integral part of the creative treatment. They can be laundered and reinstalled by the customer without special handling or great expense for cleaning. They offer the client beautiful custom treatments with little worry about the care needed to keep their investment beautiful for many years. If fashion or whim necessitates a future call to a decorator, you will remain on the top of the list having used beautifully classic, functional fabrics. Susan Scanlon is executive marketing and sales manager for Decrotex Inc., Richmond Hill, NY, importer of high quality polyester and polyester blend fabrics for more than 18 years.