How2Day: Styles of Vertical Sheers

Replace drab blinds with elegant vertical sheers. sot/Stockbyte/Getty Images
Having the right window treatments makes it a pleasure to let the light in each morning. Sheer fabrics are a great choice for sun filtration, yet they still ensure some privacy. Consumers can enjoy traditional styles or updated versions that incorporate blinds with curtains. Vertical sheers come in several popular styles.

Sheer vertical panels are a traditional style that remains popular. They can be used under draperies, but often stand alone on the window. The sheer fabric allows light to flow into the room. Sheer vertical panels are generally shirred onto 1-inch rods and then hang freely. Many people create a layered look using materials of different colors, tones or textures.

Pinch pleat curtains, another traditional style, are often made of sheer fabric. They are hung on the window with pin hooks or clip rings. Pinch pleat sheers come in pairs rather than one panel.

This option, which Hunter Douglas brought to the market in the 1990s, pairs blinds and curtains in a new way, according to Randy Swenson, Shades Shutters Blinds manager in Castle Rock, Colorado. A great alternative to standard vertical blinds, they look like curtains, yet have built-in pockets on the fabric, which are placed two to three inches apart, for the insertion of blind slats. PVC vanes allow for privacy when closed and light control when open. The vanes hang from a horizontal head rail and can stack up on the side of the window or door. These vertical sheers generally come in widths up to 192 inches and lengths up to 144 inches.

A sheer curtain and a vertical blind might snap together, such as in the Solace vertical sheers, part of the Home Decorator collection. From the outside, it looks like a blind and generally comes in a neutral tone. From the inside of the home, you see a curtain that matches the décor coloring. The blinds can be closed for privacy or left open to let more light into the room. The sheer curtains billow into the folds of the blinds when they are open.

Vertical blinds are sometimes suspended between two pieces of sheer fabric, such as in Bali's Sheer Enchantment product. The continuous length of fabric makes it appear to be a drapery, according to Amy McArthur, sales associate for Your Blinds in Austin, Texas. The curtains snap into the head rail and can be removed for cleaning. These elegant vertical sheers are finished with either European or traditional drapery hems. Installation requires only one set of hardware for the entire drapery.

Sheer panels are a nice addition to French doors. They are typically shirred on top and bottom rods. A tieback is often used to pull the material to the center of the door.

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