Interior Design Quiz: Key Terms & Glossary

Study Notes

Drapery and Curtain Terminology

Bias Binding: Fabric cut on the bias to allow for flexibility and a better drape.
Canopy: A hanging covering over furniture, adding aesthetic or functional value.
Cased Heading: Simple hemmed top of a curtain allowing a rod to be inserted securely.
Center Draw: Drapery panels that open and close from the center, providing symmetrical access to windows.
Detachable Linings: Linings that can be easily removed and reattached using the same hooks as the curtains.
Dust Cap: A wooden board placed above top treatments (valances) to prevent dust accumulation on drapes.
Clearance: Essential spacing between the wall and the rod's back to ensure proper drapery movement.
Double Tracks: Curtain tracks that accommodate two sets of curtains, enhancing flexibility and layering.
Envelope Curtain: Casual style curtains that simply hang without pulling back for access.
Baldachino: An ornate canopy supported by columns, often used in religious settings over altars.
Banding: Decorative strips of fabric sewn onto styles for added interest and design.
Bleed Through: Occurs when darker fabrics layer under lighter ones, causing color alteration.

Drapery Installation Techniques

Ceiling Mounted Track: Tracks attached to the ceiling ideal for full-height windows.
Crinoline: Stiffening material used in hem headings for structure.
Drapery Panel: Complete piece of drapery designed for patio doors or large windows.
Extendable Track: Adjustable tracks designed to fit various window widths without cutting.
Blind Stitch: Concealed stitching method used for attaching decorative elements, ensuring a clean finish.
Outside Mount: Installation method placing window treatments beyond the window frame for enhanced light control.
Pattern Repeat: The distance between identical repetitions of a pattern in fabric design.
Puddle: Term for long drapes that rest on the floor, adding a luxurious touch.

Fabric and Material Properties

Face Fabric: The primary fabric visible to the room, typically showcasing the color or pattern.
Finished Width: The actual width of drapery after all treatments and allowances have been accounted for.
Flexible Track: Special track designed for bay or bow windows, accommodating unique shapes.
Flush Mount: Indicates that the window treatment is recessed fully inside the frame to minimize protrusion.
Polonaise: A style of bed positioned against a wall, topped with a small dome structure.
Lift: Mechanism used to raise or lower blinds and shades.

Specialty Materials and Finishes

Plastic Laminate: Composite material made from kraft paper and decorative overlay, durable and versatile.
Types of Plastic Laminates:
- High Pressure: Molded under extreme pressure, offering high durability.
- Low Pressure: Molded at lower pressures, providing different applications.
Leather Processing: Method to reconstitute leather for flexible use in design.
Pigskin in Tile Form: Durable material ideal for withstanding moisture and acids, easily maintained through cleaning.
Solid Surface: Artificial material combining marble dust and resins, perfect for seamless designs.
Laminated Flooring: Multi-layered synthetic flooring simulating wood or stone, available in various styles.
Metal: Lightweight and fire-resistant sheets, often finished to mimic textures like leather or marble.
Linoleum: Flooring material composed of oxidized linseed oil and wood flour, notable for its insulative properties.

Finishing Techniques

Sanding Sealer: Prepares and protects wood surfaces, facilitating smooth application of finishes.
Polishes: Available as liquid, wax-based, or emulsions, used to treat and protect various surfaces.
Varnish: Clear finish that hardens over time, providing a glossy protective coat without pigmentation.
Stains: Available in various colors; water-based options are safest yet may require additional sanding prior to sealing.
Oil Wood Stains: Utilize earth clays and linseed oil, thinned with turpentine for application.
Water Stains: Made from dyes and mineral extracts, dissolved in hot water and requiring longer drying times.

Description

Test your knowledge of interior design terms with this quiz featuring definitions like bias binding, canopy, cased heading, and more. See how well you know the terminology used in home decor and design.