Sunshine Better Than Shades

If it is felt that there must be roller shades, they should be drawn up to the very top of the windows, out of sight, during the daylight hours. It is never a mistake to let sunshine into the house, even if it does fade the rugs and discolor the wall paper. It is better to have a healthy, and therefore happy, home than an unfaded gloom. People often speak of the effect of restfulness of a dimly lighted room, but, in reality, strained eyes are too often the price which is paid for that form of dusky coziness. It is always best to let in all the light possible, merely softened with the sheerest of curtains.

Roller Shades Unnecessary

The roller shade which is in general use in the majority of houses is not really essential to any room where the windows are properly curtained. The draperies next to the glass will keep out the crude light from the room, and will insure sufficient privacy. If, in the evening, heavier curtains are desired, the side hangings may be arranged so that they can be drawn across the window, by the aid of a simple pulley arrangement with cord and tassel at the side. This avoids the necessity for the roller shade, which is never beautiful, is often hanging askew or is out of order, and as generally used keeps out too much light. An otherwise pleasing room is sometimes spoiled by the various roller shades at its windows hanging crookedly, or at different levels.

Various Materials Possible For Use

If, because of their convenience or for some particular reason, roller shades are desired, there are several points which it is well to know. When roller shades are used, they should be made of glazed material. A glazed material stays clean much longer than an unglazed material, because the smooth surface does not catch the dust. A blind made of glazed material also pulls up much straighter than one the material of which clings to its own surface. Opaque green shades are best for the bedrooms, for they shut out the light most completely, and green is a restful color for the eyes. Two-toned shades are often used, green on the inside and white on the outside. This is especially desirable when white shades are used in the windows of the rooms on the first floor, so that, from the outside, all the windows of the house seem uniform. White holland shades without much dressing are usually better for the living rooms, as they let in the greatest amount of light while still giving privacy. Holland shade material may be bought by the yard and easily made up at home. A holland shade usually keeps fairly clean for two years and then is often very successfully laundered. No attempt at adornment by the use of lace or fringe should ever be attempted. This only draws attention to the shades.

Sash Curtains Should Never Be Used

Another mistake which is all too often made is in the use of short or sash curtains stretched across the lower half of a window. This form of curtain not only detracts from the beauty of the room in which it is placed, but is a detriment to the outside appearance of the house as well. If it is necessary to shut out the neighbor's view from bedroom, dining room, or living room, it is best to do so c by the use of very thin net curtains, hanging back from the glass, close to the heavier curtains which are made to draw.