Frequently Asked Questions
Is navy blue or light blue better? It depends. A navy blue fabric will create a more dramatic contrast to white walls and kitchen cabinets, while looking more blended and relaxed if the cabinets and walls are a more medium color. The same rule applies with light blue fabrics – they’ll blend in more with light colored cabinetry and walls, while creating a contrast to darker cabinets and walls. If you’re looking for a more relaxed, serene kitchen, then less contrast is better. If you’re looking for something that looks more unique and designer-inspired, then more contrast is better.
Are Roman shades a good choice for a kitchen? Absolutely. Roman shades add style without taking up space. They roll up neatly on the window, letting in light for kitchen work, and come down to provide privacy or reduce glare. Unlike curtains, they won’t catch on cabinets or pullbacks, so they’re very practical for kitchens.
What fabric is best for a kitchen Roman shade? Choose a durable, tightly woven fabric for kitchen windows. Cotton and linen blends are all good options. Many clients pick blackout lining to protect the fabric from UV rays, keeping colors vibrant over time.
Can I customize the color and pattern of my Roman shade? Yes – that’s the beauty of custom shades. You can select from hundreds of fabrics in blues and coordinating colors. We can match almost any shade of blue, from pale sky to deep indigo, and any pattern. If you have a particular color in your kitchen (like teal cabinets or cobalt backsplash), we’ll help you find a complementary fabric.
How do I measure for a Roman shade? We provide detailed measuring guides, but here’s a quick tip: for an inside-mount shade, measure the window’s width and height at the top, middle, and bottom; use the smallest width and subtract 1/8″ for the width. For an outside mount, measure the area you want to cover (often a couple of inches wider than the window on each side). We also offer professional measuring service if you want help.
How do I clean a Roman shade? Most Roman shades can be lightly vacuumed or dusted. For spot cleaning, use a damp cloth and mild detergent on the fabric face. Most custom grade window treatments are dry clean only.
What’s the difference between functional and faux Roman shades? Functional Roman shades operate (they raise and lower), while faux Roman shades are fixed valances that mimic the look. In the kitchen, most people choose functional shades so they can adjust light and privacy. Faux shades are decorative only, so they’re usually used in rooms where you want the look of a Roman shade without the need to move it.
Do Roman shades provide blackout options? Yes. We offer a blackout lining option for Roman shades, which is great if you want to darken the kitchen or adjacent rooms. Otherwise, our standard lining is thermal suede which blocks some light and insulates.
How high above the window should I hang the shade? For inside-mount shades, align the board with the top of the window frame. For an outside mount, install the hardware a few inches above the frame to create height. Typically, we recommend mounting 3-6 inches above the window. If your kitchen has trim or molding, make sure the shade clears any window crank or trims when raised.
Will the shade colors fade in sunlight? Our fabrics are chosen for colorfastness. With normal kitchen use and our recommended lining, they hold up well. Direct south-facing windows get more UV, so for those we suggest using a blackout lining to protect the fabric color.
Can I order samples of the blue fabrics before buying a shade? Yes, we sell fabric swatches of our most popular blue fabrics. It’s a great way to see the exact color and texture so you can test it in your home first.