Interior Design Quiz: Key Terms & Glossary

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.