Motorization
This is an introductory course into the world of automation and motorization of Window Coverings. Here you will learn all the basics you need to get a jump start on selling window coverings that move with a flick of a switch.
Just imagine having the knowledge that has the capability of enhancing your customer's luxury, privacy, security and comfort while saving them time, money and energy.
There are many facets to Automation that we cover here, including all aspects of:
- Motorization
- Wireless remote controls
- Solar protection
- Plug & Play
- Line Voltage vs. Low Voltage
Drapery Hardware
Today you have countless choices when setting out to choose the right hardware for your draperies. Make the right decision and you have a satisfied customer. Make the wrong decision and it could haunt you for months.
Drapery Hardware is not glamorous by any means. But the success you'll achieve with your newly acquired expertise certainly will appear impressive to your customers, enough so that it will warrant repeat business, referrals and word of mouth.
In this lesson we will examine the ins and outs of both functional and decorative hardware. We'll show you what works where, as well as how to decipher all the choices you have in finishes.
We'll cover everything you need to know about:
- Sash and spring rods
- Finials
- Upholstered poles
- Milk wash finish
- Faux painted finish
- Wood finishes
- Silver finishes
- Gold finishes
- Wrought iron
- Sconces
- And more!
Passementerie
Passementerie is French, from passement ornamental braid, from passer: an ornamental edging or trimming (as tassels) made of braid, cord, gimp, beading, or metallic thread. They are, quite literally, the jewels of window covering.
In this lesson you will be introduced to the world of trim. All the tassel, fringe, cording and bead knowledge that's necessary for a flourishing decorating career.
Your ability to add these accoutrements to certain design jobs will put you in an elite class. Prospective clients and vendors alike will marvel at your prowess in this area that's considered by many to be the upper echelon, the PhD of decorating.
It's all here for you. We will leave nothing to chance. Everything will be discussed so you can be confident that you have the know-how, skills and in all aspects of this part of your education.
From loop fringes, brush fringes, bullion fringes and tiebacks to key tassels, rosettes, gimp braids, cords, chair ties and much more, you'll be well versed in Passementerie by the time you're done with this lesson.
This knowledge is what separates the exceptional decorator from the sea of average and mediocre that permeates the marketplace. The customers can tell the difference, so show them you have what it takes with this exquisite lesson that you won't forget.
Introduction to Re-Upholstery
Are you interested in adding a significant profit center to your business? Offering re-upholstery can provide a big boost to your sales and bottom line. In this session you will learn the basics to offering re-upholstery. You will learn the answers to the most common objectives consumers use when then consider having their furniture recovered. What are the options you need to know about? Different types of seat cushions, alterations to the existing design and fabric choices.
- Is it worth it to recover or buy new?
- Can I offer refinishing?
- What if my client wants to change the design?
- What are the choices for the seat cushions?
- How do I know what types of fabrics are suitable?
Introduction to Bedding
- Bedding and all the products that go with it is an excellent way to increase your sales and bottom line. It is a natural extension to your product line that offers many small add-ons.
- This is a simple business to learn and you will become familiar with what you need to get started. In this session we cover:
- Bedspreads
- Coverlets
- Comforters
- Duvet Covers
- Bed Skirts
- Canopies
- Pillows and Shams
- Headboards
- Window Seat Cushions
We also will cover how to Measuring: Bedspreads, Comforters, Duvets, Dust Skirts, and Headboards. You will get an introduction to other great add-on products such as: Bed Canopies, Pillow Shams, Decorative Pillows, Window Seat Cushion, Headboard, Benches and Ottomans, and Table covers.
Are You Shutter Savvy?
One of the fastest growing segment in the Window Covering Industry is Shutters. Are you trained in this profitable and highly desirable product? In this webinar we will explain all the basics of what you need to know to get you up to speed so you can comfortable sell.
This webinar is taught by Dan Kerrigan of Lafayette Window Fashions. Dan is an expert in shutters and has trained hundreds of people at the Lafayette Training School. Dan will cover:
- Shutter Technology
- Louver Size and Orientation
- Panel Configuration
- Specialty Shapes
- Keys of Planning
- How to Measure
- Installation Options
- Framing Options
Fabric Basics
With the tremendous selection of fabric vendors to choose from, how do you create a fabric library? What are the required categories of fabrics you need in your fabric library? These are just a few of the areas we will cover in this basic lesson of fabrics. You will also learn:
- An introduction to fabric content
- Understanding fabric widths
- What is the reason for 118" wide goods?
- What does Railroading" mean?
This lesson is invaluable to projecting yourself as an expert in fabrics.
Drapery Design
This is where we cut loose and provide you with a fun presentation as you get a guided tour through a brief history of draperies.
From historical treatments to a "funky" stop in the sixties and finally a visit to drapery treatments of today, you will learn how draperies have evolved to keep up with the times, and what top decorators are creating today for their client's windows.
You'll also see a video montage of decorating with hardware, decorating with bedding and much more.
This lesson is a feast for the eyes, and will give you an important and enjoyable perspective into a world of style, creativity and fashion history that very few people get to see. Fasten your seatbelt!
Feng Shui
Instructor: Mo Linquist, The Feng Shui Institute of America .
In this session we are going to investigate a method to create spaces deliberately designed with preferences, needs and goals taken into chief consideration. Webster defines deliberate as "careful and thorough consideration characterized by awareness of the consequences." Using the ancient concept of feng shui and integrating it with modern technology pertaining to physical and social sciences (known as pyramid feng shui - the science of the person place connection) it is not only possible but probable to create a space that supports and pleases your client.
We will cover:
- A short history of Feng Shui
- Where are your clients stuck and how Feng Shui can help
- The three under pinning's of Feng Shui: Tao, Yin Yang, and Chi
Good to be Green
Instructor: Uchenna Bright, Good to be Green, Inc.
Green is hot! Are you familiar with what Green Design means? Uchenna Bright of the website Good to be Green will present an informative session on offering a "Green" message to your clients.
Uchena will discuss the characteristics of legitimate green products as well as the concept of "Aesthetically Pleasing" design.
Other areas covered will be:
- making appropriate use of the land
- using water, energy, lumber, and other resources efficiently
- enhancing human health
- strengthening local economies and communities
- conserving plants, animals, endangered species, and natural habitats
- protecting agricultural, cultural, and archaeological resources
Blinds & Shades Ideas
This lesson will address the esthetics and functions of Blinds & Shades and how and when to offer them. What's the difference between a blind and a shade? Do you know the advantages of a louver? How about when to install a window covering inside or outside the trim? These are just a few of the questions that will be addressed in the introductory lesson. Some other highlights include:
- Understanding Light Control
- Real wood vs. Faux
- Privacy and Blackout; what's the difference?
- The various lifting systems and when to use them
Drapery Ideas
How do you get the confidence to offer your clients great Drapery Ideas? In this lesson you will learn simple approaches to decorating. Some of the ideas included are:
- Poles and Panels
- Top Treatments you must know
- Roman and Balloon Shades
- When to Interline
We will also introduce you to the "Classic Treatments".
Drapery Hardware Design
Drapery Hardware is hotter than ever! How do you include this great "add-on" to your repertoire? There are many choices from wood to iron to metal and wire systems. You will learn how to include all types of Drapery Hardware in your sales presentations. You will learn such things as:
- The various configurations available
- Specialty systems to solve challenging windows
- The vendors and suppliers to choose from
Top Treatment Styles
One of the most popular styles of drapery is the Top Treatment. In this lesson you will learn the various types of Top Treatments and where to use them. From the classic Swags and Jabots to the elegant Kingston valance you will learn what is appropriate for your customer's home. You will also learn about:
- Cornices, Cantoneers and Lambrequins
- Tailored vs. Gathered Treatments
- How to add trim to the treatments
You will also learn how to communicate your ideas to the workroom.
Custom Bedding
Are you looking for a way to sell more products to your existing customers? Custom bedding is a natural extension to your product line. In this lesson you will be introduced to the extensive choices there are in decorating a bed. From headboards to pillows to bedspreads and comforters, the options are grand. You will also learn:
- The difference between a bedspread and a comforter
- How to add pizzazz with pillows
- Designing an Upholstered Headboard
This lesson will give you an introduction the many accessories to add for the bedroom.