Resources
We recommend the following books for inspiration and information on a variety of window treatment styles and techniques:
AUTHORS: Charles Randall | Karla Nielson | Ann Johnson | Other
Books from Charles Randall, Inc.:
The Window Decorating Book by Kathleen S. Stoehr and Charles T. Randall
Coming soon! “An exceptional guide to window coverings featuring more than 800 photographs and illustrations, The Window Decorating Book is both unique and compelling in covering the scope of window products available on the market today. You will be encouraged to explore and consider all of your options, including sections on specifications and fabric quantities, should you wish to do so. The Window Decorating Book not only provides an inspiring visual catalog of ways to use draperies, blinds, shades, and shutters maginatively, but also delves into the details; providing vital information on the pros and cons of various products, and how to choose fabrics and treatments that create the right atmosphere for any room of the house.”
Call 800-BOOK LOG (800-247-6553) or click here for more information.

The Complete Home Decorating Idea Book by Kathleen S. Stoehr
“The Complete Home Decorating Idea Book focuses on vertical and horizontal surfaces by examining not only windows, walls and floors but also celebrates the fifth wall-ceilings! Readers will discover the clever possibilities for treating surfaces of all kinds with paint, wallpaper, tile, stone, fabric and more. A book unabashedly low on copy and high on brilliant four color photography, trend expert Kathleen Stoehr (author of the already published Dream Windows and Dream Floors books) developed a unique concept to attract thousands of buyers to this all-encompassing book. Thousands of photographs, consecutively numbered for convenient reference, allow users to easily note potential colors, designs and interiors that appeal.”
Call 800-BOOK LOG (800-247-6553) or click here for more information.

Charles Randall’s Designer Sketchfile by Charles T. Randall
“This is no ordinary sketchfile with mundane illustrations. These are professional renderings of the most recent designs in window decorating, along with beautiful historical samples. This Sketchfile is all about custom designer window treatments—from a simply executed Roman shade to an over-the-top period style masterpiece. This book will kindle your creativity and stimulate your imagination. You can mix and match the various designs to create a truly unusual treatment that will be your creation—one of a kind—something no one else in the world has. You’re in good company: Charles Randall is the world’s best-selling author on the subject of window decorating. His other book, The Encyclopedia of Window Fashions has sold more than 1 million copies worldwide and is now in its sixth revision.”
Call 800-BOOK LOG (800-247-6553) or click here for more information.

The Encyclopedia of Window Fashions, Sixth Edition by Charles T. Randall
“Blending current, popular styles with extraordinary new approaches, the sixth edition of The Encyclopedia of Window Fashions is a must have for designers, from beginner to expert. With more full-color illustrations than ever before, this book presents a myriad of window treatments for any room in any home from the most simple to the most challenging. Throughout its 300 pages, which include detailed sketchings, cost-saving ideas, yardage and fullness charts and the sketchfile method, you will quickly see why this book has become the industry standard for window decor inspiration. Over 2000 decorating ideas for windows, bedding and accessories – including draperies, shades, blinds, shutters, verticals, bedspreads, pillows, cushions and more!”
Call 800-BOOK LOG (800-247-6553) or click here for more information.

Dream Windows: An Inspirational Guide to Draperies and Soft Furnishings by Charles T. Randall
Dream Windows is both unique and complete in its scope of window decorating ideas. One glance and you will be inspired as you marvel at the information contained in its pages. This exquisite guide is simply stunning in not only the beauty of its illustrations, but also in its wealth of window decorating ideas. You will be encouraged to bring together draperies and swags, add fringe to cascades or place an arched valance atop a set of wooden shutters. And guided by the brilliance that fills each page, there is no limit to what you may create.
Click here for more information.
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Books from Karla J. Nielson:
Window Treatments by Karla J. Nielson
“The task of selecting an appropriate window treatment for a particular window in a particular setting can be at once challenging and enjoyable-challenging because of the many factors to be considered (interior window requirements such as light, view, ventilation, safety, wall space, furniture arrangement, solar gain, and energy conservation may play an equal bill to site factors such as climate, orientation, prevailing breezes, architectural style, and setting or location); enjoyable because, when most or all of these factors and requirements are met, the window can truly be used to the best advantage, and the result can produce great satisfaction.” (excerpt)
Click here for more information.

Interior Textiles: Fabrics, Application, and Historic Style by Karla J. Nielson
When it comes to both the technical and aesthetic considerations of using textiles in interior design, this book gives working professionals what they need to know. You’ll receive expert guidance to the process of textile specifications, selection, installation and maintenance, as well as an understanding of the properties of fabric types and a historical context of styles. Sustainable design and code issues are also considered. More than 500 illustrations and photographs elucidate key ideas. This survey of textiles for interior design is divided into three main parts:
Fabrics: The interior design textile industry and marketplace. A study of fibers, yarns, constructions, and finishes. Codes and “green” design.
Applications: Textile specifications and coordination of upholstery and wall coverings, window treatments, linens and accessories, and rugs and carpeting.
Period Style: Oriental styles, Renaissance and Formal styles, Medieval, Colonial, Country and Provence styles, Regional and Ethnic styles, and Modern styles.
Click here for more information.
Interiors: An Introduction by Karla J. Nielson
Interiors: An Introduction offers an introduction to the elements, practice, and aesthetics of residential and nonresidential interior design. The text presents timeless design principles and elements and their application to interiors. In addition, the authors describe the numerous choices of materials, furnishings, and components used in interior design.
Click here for more information.
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Books from Ann K. Johnson:
The Professional Workroom Handbook of Swags, Vol. I by Ann K. Johnson
The Professional Workroom Handbook of Swags series is the leading industry reference for understanding the engineering of the basic swag pattern and adapting it to make a swag of any shape or size. The books can be used exclusively to draft swag patterns or in conjunction with your current swag patterns and templates. These books are a must-have for every workroom. Ann K. Johnson, a popular speaker and educator for the workroom industry, drew on her years of workroom experience and research to bring you the ability to draw your own swag patterns to your specifications. Time and again, readers have said that these books have allowed them to take on challenging swag projects with the confidence of spectacular results.
Volume I introduces the basic swag pattern and demonstrates how the components can be manipulated to achieve different looks. It concentrates on the three most popular swag styles: the basic board mount swag, the cutout (pole) swag and the point-to-point (drapery) swag.
For more information or to order, click here.
The Professional Workroom Handbook of Swags, Vol. II by Ann K. Johnson
Volume II builds on that base to teach you the other three basic styles: the Austrian swag, the boxed swag and the arched swag. Finally, utilizing your skills in drawing the six basic swag patterns, it directs your approach to drawing a pattern for any asymmetrical swag style.
For more information or to order, click here.

Price Your Work With Confidence: Fearless Pricing Made Easy by Kitty Stein
Price Your Work With Confidence by Kitty Stein is a clear, concise guide to analyzing your costs and goals and translating them into specific prices for your work. Though geared towards the design and workroom industry, the concepts and worksheets can be applied to any small business. It is a must-read for any business owner – novice or veteran. Kitty firmly pushes you towards taking a professional view of your business and pricing.
For more information or to order, click here.
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Other Books:
Window Treatments Idea Book by Sue Sampson and Ellen DeLucia
“One of the first things you do when you remodel or move into a new home is change the curtains. After all, new window treatments easily, quickly, and inexpensively transform a room. They turn an outdated room into one you want to spend time in, and they make a cold space feel warm and inviting. In the style of the best-selling Idea Books, Window Treatments Idea Book offers the latest ideas for decorating all types of windows, from standard to custom. More than 350 photos provide inspiration for all rooms in the house, from the kitchen to the bathroom, bedroom to family room and study. Recognizing that consumers also want to make easy enhancements to readily available window treatments and hardware, the inspiration is peppered with practical advice on how to quickly modify off-the-shelf window treatments and design tricks for hanging them. The breadth of information makes this book the one source homeowners need when picking out window treatments.”
Click here for more information.
