HOW TO DRAPE.
Unless a window dresser is thoroughly conversant with the art of draping he will not be recognized as accomplished. Yet there are many professional trimmers who, it must be admitted, create wonders in their line while unable to put up an effective drape. This statement may be denied by many trimmers, and it surely sounds rather strange. However, I wish to argue on this subject and shall at the same time endeavor to give those not fully posted on the knack of draping some practical hints and suggestions.
If a man in a smaller town who takes care of the show windows is not acquainted with this branch of trimming, you need not feel surprised, as he has little or no chance to see and learn. It is naturally easier for him to learn pleating, puffing, and to make his wooden fixtures, than to put up an artistic drape, simply because he can acquire great ability and skill in these lines of work without being instructed, while many men will never learn how to drape until they are shown how to do it.
Draping is the foundation of the art of window trimming.
There is no window in which some kind of a drape could not be applied to good advantage. It gives the window an artistic and pleasing effect and is always appropriate. Draping is as old as the history of decorating itself, and it will never become old fashioned.
While the prettiest and most artistic effects are produced by draping, it is simple in itself, and, as in some tricks, “easy if you know how.”