Silk Boxers By Josh Riverside
Almost all clothing apparel has its own versions in silk, and they don’t run short of them in boxers. Silk boxers have the appearance and feel of luxury and sensuality, plus they are shrink-resistant and the composure of silk does not wear easily. Silk boxers are available for both men and women. For women, they normally come in sets, and they are ideal for fun ideas in gift items.
Scientists have discovered a very strong variant of silk fibers, so strong that they can even deter bullets. This special kind of silk is now used to produce “bulletproof lingerie” that has stirred interest in the fashion industry. It combined both the pragmatic and fashionable – and now, even the military is commissioning scientists to explore more about this new technology.
The association of silk with being effeminate could be the downside of wearing silk boxers. The choice of material in underwear is very wide, and you can choose any material from cotton to plastic, but silk remains the most popular choice because silk boxers are very nice to look at. That’s right – silk boxers are actually meant to be seen rather than to be obscured by any piece of clothing. Silk boxers alone can be used as loungewear.
Although silk spells luxury all over, it may not necessarily be true in underwear, especially during hot weather; it may induce profuse sweating in the boxer area. Most professional boxers wear silk in the ring because it can easily resist sweat and drips of blood. Silk is also not cheap as compared to cotton. Silk has a very long tradition in textiles, as it is commonly associated with royalty. So if a royal treatment is what you fancy for yourself, then silk is definitely the way to go. There is no material more fitting.
Boxers provides detailed information on Boxers, Boxer Briefs, Boxer Shorts, Silk Boxers and more. Boxers is affiliated with Military Shoulder Patches.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Josh_Riverside
Saturday, December 27, 2008
Monday, December 15, 2008
Which mens suit to wear at a wedding
Which mens suit to wear at a wedding by Louie Scott
What to wear at a wedding is actually one of the more easy dilemmas ever you will get to solve. If you are the one getting married, the order of the day is to come in something elegant yet comfortable for you; sometimes a play-safe dark mens suit does the trick. If you are a guest, it's going to take you around looking for hints from the wedding planners. Don't worry however, since it is obvious that what you will wear will be something equally handsome, but not as handsome as the groom himself.
If you are a guest, read behind the invitation's message if the dress code is not explicitly stated. If the type on the paper, the paper itself, the language... all signal "formal", then you can count on it that the wedding will be formal, too. On the other hand, the invitation may be something that simply announces straightaway that you need to see your friends get hitched. With this, guests are being encouraged to go for a nice casual outfit.
Style icon Amanda Brooks opines that wedding garb falls under three categories: exceedingly formal (white tie, tails, or morning suit), respectfully traditional (dark mens suits or tuxedoes and black ties), and eccentric (I've seen capes, seventies three-piece suits, floral shirts, etc). She rightly conceded that all three are sensible as long as they jive with and complement the overall atmosphere of the wedding, its location, what the bride is wearing, and even the background or occupation of most of the guests. A smart tip from her is that the groom must send out the message that he is the man of the hour, so why not the subtle flower on the lapel?
An example of the many headaches that the planners may encounter is that what if the soon-to-be-couple are at odds--fashion wise, at most. As in any debate, a solution is reached the moment both agree to meet in the middle on their wedding day. If she is the one with high class elan, then she can go for a less elaborate hairdo. If he has the devil-may-care attitude, a silk tie and pinstripe mens suit is the answer.
The style blogger also shared how some good styling can result to setting the theme and atmosphere. The invitation to a South American wedding instructed white jackets and black ties for all men. Factoring in the tropical heat and the (presumably landscaped) exotic location, the period look was a hit, which harks back to the days of the landed cream of the crop.
To wrap up, some last minute advice on your get up depending on the wedding's time, and theme. For daytime weddings, light-colored mens suits will totally be the in thing on summers, especially linen or seersucker. Tying the knot in colder climes will have the men in wool suits, a navy blazer with charcoal pants, and perhaps a sweater and tie underneath a blazer. If possible, do not do without the suit, or a blazer at least. And remember your etiquette; tuxedos are no-no's before 6 pm.
If the occasion is later on in the evening, then go for dark mens suits. If the invitation says casual or semi-formal, then ease up a bit and play it cool with a blazer and slacks with a nice tie.
Now, what if the notch is way up high and its all dead-seriously black tie? A tuxedo is your safest bet. If it says creative black tie, there ought to be a tuxedo just the same, paired this time perhaps with a black shirt or collarless white shirt.
About the Author
Louie Scott is the Webmaster and Author of suitsmen.co.uk, a company in line with selling quality men suits. {a href=" http://www.suitsmen.co.uk "} http://www.suitsmen.co.uk it design and sell clothes for men that will suit the occasion you will be attending to.
What to wear at a wedding is actually one of the more easy dilemmas ever you will get to solve. If you are the one getting married, the order of the day is to come in something elegant yet comfortable for you; sometimes a play-safe dark mens suit does the trick. If you are a guest, it's going to take you around looking for hints from the wedding planners. Don't worry however, since it is obvious that what you will wear will be something equally handsome, but not as handsome as the groom himself.
If you are a guest, read behind the invitation's message if the dress code is not explicitly stated. If the type on the paper, the paper itself, the language... all signal "formal", then you can count on it that the wedding will be formal, too. On the other hand, the invitation may be something that simply announces straightaway that you need to see your friends get hitched. With this, guests are being encouraged to go for a nice casual outfit.
Style icon Amanda Brooks opines that wedding garb falls under three categories: exceedingly formal (white tie, tails, or morning suit), respectfully traditional (dark mens suits or tuxedoes and black ties), and eccentric (I've seen capes, seventies three-piece suits, floral shirts, etc). She rightly conceded that all three are sensible as long as they jive with and complement the overall atmosphere of the wedding, its location, what the bride is wearing, and even the background or occupation of most of the guests. A smart tip from her is that the groom must send out the message that he is the man of the hour, so why not the subtle flower on the lapel?
An example of the many headaches that the planners may encounter is that what if the soon-to-be-couple are at odds--fashion wise, at most. As in any debate, a solution is reached the moment both agree to meet in the middle on their wedding day. If she is the one with high class elan, then she can go for a less elaborate hairdo. If he has the devil-may-care attitude, a silk tie and pinstripe mens suit is the answer.
The style blogger also shared how some good styling can result to setting the theme and atmosphere. The invitation to a South American wedding instructed white jackets and black ties for all men. Factoring in the tropical heat and the (presumably landscaped) exotic location, the period look was a hit, which harks back to the days of the landed cream of the crop.
To wrap up, some last minute advice on your get up depending on the wedding's time, and theme. For daytime weddings, light-colored mens suits will totally be the in thing on summers, especially linen or seersucker. Tying the knot in colder climes will have the men in wool suits, a navy blazer with charcoal pants, and perhaps a sweater and tie underneath a blazer. If possible, do not do without the suit, or a blazer at least. And remember your etiquette; tuxedos are no-no's before 6 pm.
If the occasion is later on in the evening, then go for dark mens suits. If the invitation says casual or semi-formal, then ease up a bit and play it cool with a blazer and slacks with a nice tie.
Now, what if the notch is way up high and its all dead-seriously black tie? A tuxedo is your safest bet. If it says creative black tie, there ought to be a tuxedo just the same, paired this time perhaps with a black shirt or collarless white shirt.
About the Author
Louie Scott is the Webmaster and Author of suitsmen.co.uk, a company in line with selling quality men suits. {a href=" http://www.suitsmen.co.uk "} http://www.suitsmen.co.uk it design and sell clothes for men that will suit the occasion you will be attending to.
Modern Chinese Clothing
Modern Chinese Clothing by Christopher Schwebius
Chinese clothing is not only externally elegant but it also symbolizes culture and communicates its own vitality. Archeological remains from the Shantingtung culture unearthed objects like bone sewing needles, stone beads and shells with holes in them clearly pointing out the use of ornamentation and sewing in that age. Clothing associated with colors was prevalent; red was the color for summer, green for spring, black for winters and white represented of autumns.
Ancient Chinese clothing favored darker colors and a fully developed system of matching, coordinating and contrasting colors and shades was used in apparels. Modern Chinese clothing has combined the ancient symbols of good fortune with the more modern fashion aesthetics in the Chinese modern clothing. A wide range of eye catchy designs for children and young people's clothing is designed in modern China, which includes lions, deities and masks of Chinese opera characters. Modern silhouettes are increasingly using designs and appliqué bronzes from the ancient clothing. Prints, weaves, embroideries, and motifs from the ancient culture merge with new age fabrics and styles to create modern Chinese clothing.
Distinctive and unusual designs from centuries gone by like the dragon and clouds embroideries used on robes meant for emperors are making a come back with modern Chinese clothing. These motifs and designs are beautiful and also symbolize ancient culture. The nine dragon and five cloud design was to bring good fortune to its wearer, and the design still holds it's auspicious significance with modern china. The amalgamation of this modern and ancient apparel, trends and symbolism is attractive and earthy. The traditional macramé is broadly used in modern Chinese clothing for ornamental purposes. It is used on borders, shoulders, pockets, openings, bodices and seams. The modern bridal tiara is another successful combination of traditional and modern in its Sung dynasty design. Traditional pendants and Sash in traditional colors of red, green and blue embroidered in the Hunan province style is still in existence.
The Chinese modern clothing springs from traditional designs and customs. Today social occasions still see men dressed in a refined traditional long gown. Women too wear a modified form of fashion from the Ch'ing Dynasty. There is no end to the variations to these ancient clothes in height, length and width and ornamentation. Even the silk making, weaving and spinning techniques from the past have been developed with modernity and textile industries grown around them. Chinese modern clothing hence helps people not only in china but around the world enjoy traditional features and modern chic in clothing apparels.
The most influential of all ancient times is perhaps the Shang dynasty when silk weaving, spinning and making had been developed. The modern Chinese clothing is visually different yet deeply rooted and interwoven with history. Ancient Chinese art and clothing has and will remain to influence modern Chinese clothing majorly. Culturally, china is neither fully modern nor traditional; this is evident in their lifestyle, modern adaptations of ancient way of dressing and even through ancient art forms depicted as motifs on modern clothing. Despite the advent of western influences and the business suit and 'jeans' in the country, china and modern Chinese clothing remains deeply rooted in the country's history and ancient religion and practices. http://www.ancientchinaclothing.org
About the Author
Christopher Schwebius is an entrepreneur who seeks out sharply defined, specifically focused topics to research. Upon finishing his research he provides relevant, un-biased information to his readers based on his discoveries and/or personal experiences. One of his latest ongoing projects can be viewed at http://www.ancientchinaclothing.org
Chinese clothing is not only externally elegant but it also symbolizes culture and communicates its own vitality. Archeological remains from the Shantingtung culture unearthed objects like bone sewing needles, stone beads and shells with holes in them clearly pointing out the use of ornamentation and sewing in that age. Clothing associated with colors was prevalent; red was the color for summer, green for spring, black for winters and white represented of autumns.
Ancient Chinese clothing favored darker colors and a fully developed system of matching, coordinating and contrasting colors and shades was used in apparels. Modern Chinese clothing has combined the ancient symbols of good fortune with the more modern fashion aesthetics in the Chinese modern clothing. A wide range of eye catchy designs for children and young people's clothing is designed in modern China, which includes lions, deities and masks of Chinese opera characters. Modern silhouettes are increasingly using designs and appliqué bronzes from the ancient clothing. Prints, weaves, embroideries, and motifs from the ancient culture merge with new age fabrics and styles to create modern Chinese clothing.
Distinctive and unusual designs from centuries gone by like the dragon and clouds embroideries used on robes meant for emperors are making a come back with modern Chinese clothing. These motifs and designs are beautiful and also symbolize ancient culture. The nine dragon and five cloud design was to bring good fortune to its wearer, and the design still holds it's auspicious significance with modern china. The amalgamation of this modern and ancient apparel, trends and symbolism is attractive and earthy. The traditional macramé is broadly used in modern Chinese clothing for ornamental purposes. It is used on borders, shoulders, pockets, openings, bodices and seams. The modern bridal tiara is another successful combination of traditional and modern in its Sung dynasty design. Traditional pendants and Sash in traditional colors of red, green and blue embroidered in the Hunan province style is still in existence.
The Chinese modern clothing springs from traditional designs and customs. Today social occasions still see men dressed in a refined traditional long gown. Women too wear a modified form of fashion from the Ch'ing Dynasty. There is no end to the variations to these ancient clothes in height, length and width and ornamentation. Even the silk making, weaving and spinning techniques from the past have been developed with modernity and textile industries grown around them. Chinese modern clothing hence helps people not only in china but around the world enjoy traditional features and modern chic in clothing apparels.
The most influential of all ancient times is perhaps the Shang dynasty when silk weaving, spinning and making had been developed. The modern Chinese clothing is visually different yet deeply rooted and interwoven with history. Ancient Chinese art and clothing has and will remain to influence modern Chinese clothing majorly. Culturally, china is neither fully modern nor traditional; this is evident in their lifestyle, modern adaptations of ancient way of dressing and even through ancient art forms depicted as motifs on modern clothing. Despite the advent of western influences and the business suit and 'jeans' in the country, china and modern Chinese clothing remains deeply rooted in the country's history and ancient religion and practices. http://www.ancientchinaclothing.org
About the Author
Christopher Schwebius is an entrepreneur who seeks out sharply defined, specifically focused topics to research. Upon finishing his research he provides relevant, un-biased information to his readers based on his discoveries and/or personal experiences. One of his latest ongoing projects can be viewed at http://www.ancientchinaclothing.org
The Story and History of Silk
The Story and History of Silk by Hendrik Pohl
voteSilk is one of the most unique natural fabrics. Even though the production of silk is much more complicated when compared to cotton or wool, its a history that dates back thousands of years. As you probably know, silk is manufactured from fiber created biologically by moth larvae. But did you know that it takes 1,000 silkworms produce less than one half pound of raw silk. This is definitely something to think about next time you tie your silk tie of put on a silk shirt. To break this number down even further, the evarge men's necktie uses roughly 50 grams of silk the work produced by about 100 silk worms. Let's take this number even further. The average American male owns 6 neckties, and about 100 million ties are bought in the US each year. So just to supply the US market with neckties, 10 Billion worms have to go to work each year. That's quite a bit more than people living on our entire planet. And all just so you can wear a tie to work. Quite an interesting fact isn't it.
You now might ask yourself: Who invented silk? And for how long has been Silk produced? Well, the controlled production of silk was a secret known only to the Chinese for thousands of years. The production of silk was a secret and even in China, the fabric was for many years manufactured exclusively for use by the Chinese emperor and forbidden to the people.
Chinese mythology accredits the development of raising silkworms to produce the raw material and the weaving method for the fabric to Lady Hsi-Ling-Shih, the wife of an Emperor said to have lived around 3000 BC. Archaeological evidence, however, suggests that silk may have been in use there more than 6,000 years ago making silk one of the oldest fabrics that is still produced in the same fashion today.
Silk was not only used for clothing but many other items that could benefit from its lightweight and strength. Such items were fishing line, bowstrings, and even paper. In time, the material became so prized that it was used as a commodity like gold. While other countries pegged their currencies on gold China employed silk as a form of currency. In China, silk was a major factor in the economy of the country, and still the secret was kept safe until 200 BC, when immigrants reportedly stole the manufacturing secret, and soon after started Korean silk production.
Over the next several hundred years there were many reported attempts made, with many of them being successful, of smuggling silkworm eggs out of China. The eggs were carefully hatched and silkworms were raised. Eventually silk production was common in parts of Italy, Como to be exact, Spain, Persia, and even Morocco. With time each region developed their own secrets to weave the fine silk thread into fabrics. Today high quality silk is still produced in such regions with China still being the largest importer of silk. Often times China exports silk yarn to Italy where the silk is the woven and dyed into finest silk fabric.
About the Author
Pohl regularly writes articles on men's fashion. He himself is a necktie aficionado - hence his interest in the story of silk. His interest in fine silk ties inspired him to open is own virtual necktie retailer Ties-Necktie.com - Home of quality mens ties, bow ties, and cufflink sets
voteSilk is one of the most unique natural fabrics. Even though the production of silk is much more complicated when compared to cotton or wool, its a history that dates back thousands of years. As you probably know, silk is manufactured from fiber created biologically by moth larvae. But did you know that it takes 1,000 silkworms produce less than one half pound of raw silk. This is definitely something to think about next time you tie your silk tie of put on a silk shirt. To break this number down even further, the evarge men's necktie uses roughly 50 grams of silk the work produced by about 100 silk worms. Let's take this number even further. The average American male owns 6 neckties, and about 100 million ties are bought in the US each year. So just to supply the US market with neckties, 10 Billion worms have to go to work each year. That's quite a bit more than people living on our entire planet. And all just so you can wear a tie to work. Quite an interesting fact isn't it.
You now might ask yourself: Who invented silk? And for how long has been Silk produced? Well, the controlled production of silk was a secret known only to the Chinese for thousands of years. The production of silk was a secret and even in China, the fabric was for many years manufactured exclusively for use by the Chinese emperor and forbidden to the people.
Chinese mythology accredits the development of raising silkworms to produce the raw material and the weaving method for the fabric to Lady Hsi-Ling-Shih, the wife of an Emperor said to have lived around 3000 BC. Archaeological evidence, however, suggests that silk may have been in use there more than 6,000 years ago making silk one of the oldest fabrics that is still produced in the same fashion today.
Silk was not only used for clothing but many other items that could benefit from its lightweight and strength. Such items were fishing line, bowstrings, and even paper. In time, the material became so prized that it was used as a commodity like gold. While other countries pegged their currencies on gold China employed silk as a form of currency. In China, silk was a major factor in the economy of the country, and still the secret was kept safe until 200 BC, when immigrants reportedly stole the manufacturing secret, and soon after started Korean silk production.
Over the next several hundred years there were many reported attempts made, with many of them being successful, of smuggling silkworm eggs out of China. The eggs were carefully hatched and silkworms were raised. Eventually silk production was common in parts of Italy, Como to be exact, Spain, Persia, and even Morocco. With time each region developed their own secrets to weave the fine silk thread into fabrics. Today high quality silk is still produced in such regions with China still being the largest importer of silk. Often times China exports silk yarn to Italy where the silk is the woven and dyed into finest silk fabric.
About the Author
Pohl regularly writes articles on men's fashion. He himself is a necktie aficionado - hence his interest in the story of silk. His interest in fine silk ties inspired him to open is own virtual necktie retailer Ties-Necktie.com - Home of quality mens ties, bow ties, and cufflink sets
Monday, December 8, 2008
Fashionable and Stylish Bags For Today's Trend
Fashionable and Stylish Bags For Today's Trend by Janet R.
Today, fashionable and stylish accessories gives people something to talk about, whether it is accessories for men or women. Some of these product were celebrity-inspired. Fashion Designer Handbags for instance, these are chick and pretty creation inspired by Hollywood celebrities. These handbags includes very stylish feature yet elegant, an ideal accessories to complete the fashionable personality of today's ladies.
Exotic Patchwork Convertible Clutch. Clutches are typically compact-look but don't get fooled by it, this exotic clutch has plenty of pockets to accommodate girls' night-out and party baubles - this is sure to be the center of attraction. Exotic Patchwork Convertible Clutch is perfect to be worn by girls with their high-heeled boots and designer jeans or mini-skirts. These are available in black and red, featuring a wild leather-like patchwork pattern including a detachable shoulder strap. Among its amenities, this bag reveal its inside built-in credit cards slots, and a driver's license pocket with display window.
Ribbon Beach Bucket Bag. For ladies who loved beach hopping, this ribbon beach bucket bag is fantastic! It offers so much convenience when it comes to arranging and organizing beach essentials while keeping a fashionable look. An accessory that gives an easy transition from a day under the sun to a dinner party, this pretty stylish bag has features all the right moves! It includes a gorgeous gold-metallic ribbon accent, complemented by gold hardware on the should straps. It has an interior drawstring closure and is made from jute, a tropical plant integrating other natural fibers like canvas, straw, silk, hemp and raffia.
Sinclaire Satchel Bag. An elegant choice of designer bag for professional women. Made from microfiber, this bag easily transition from office wardrobe to evening attire. A great choice for gifts for ladies in any occasions. This is embellished with chic buckle details, this bag gives you a one of a kind classic sophistication and trendy appeal on or off your work place. A gorgeous purse, boasts iridescent silver patent leather details and silver hardware studs beg to be worn by working ladies with their designer jeans and cool boots. Very versatile and timeless, this bag is a truly remarkable add-on to any ensembles.
Jennifer Leather Large Purse. Another classic, sophisticated-look accessory to complete a working outfit as well as evening attire. This is an animal-friendly faux-leather handbag that is virtually indistinguishable from the real thing, comes with brass details making a timeworn look for ladies while carrying their daily essentials with elegance.
These are few choices of fashion purses inspired by hottest celebrities today, there are immeasurable accessories that aren't for night-outs, parties and work only. You can find personalized travel bags that allows you to carry travel necessities with style. Or perhaps, personalized cosmetic bags that are simply beautiful, versatile enough to keep your cosmetics while on travel. Of course to make it unique, have then personalize with your initials embroidered or monogrammed on it. These items can make an ideal gift for ladies during their birthdays, graduation, anniversaries and even gifts for bridesmaids and maid of honors at weddings.
About the Author
Jnet is an author for a variety of lifestyle issues and topics. If you're looking for designer handbags, visit the website Bags-purses-totes.com and browse their collection. Get a tote bag at an affordable price
Today, fashionable and stylish accessories gives people something to talk about, whether it is accessories for men or women. Some of these product were celebrity-inspired. Fashion Designer Handbags for instance, these are chick and pretty creation inspired by Hollywood celebrities. These handbags includes very stylish feature yet elegant, an ideal accessories to complete the fashionable personality of today's ladies.
Exotic Patchwork Convertible Clutch. Clutches are typically compact-look but don't get fooled by it, this exotic clutch has plenty of pockets to accommodate girls' night-out and party baubles - this is sure to be the center of attraction. Exotic Patchwork Convertible Clutch is perfect to be worn by girls with their high-heeled boots and designer jeans or mini-skirts. These are available in black and red, featuring a wild leather-like patchwork pattern including a detachable shoulder strap. Among its amenities, this bag reveal its inside built-in credit cards slots, and a driver's license pocket with display window.
Ribbon Beach Bucket Bag. For ladies who loved beach hopping, this ribbon beach bucket bag is fantastic! It offers so much convenience when it comes to arranging and organizing beach essentials while keeping a fashionable look. An accessory that gives an easy transition from a day under the sun to a dinner party, this pretty stylish bag has features all the right moves! It includes a gorgeous gold-metallic ribbon accent, complemented by gold hardware on the should straps. It has an interior drawstring closure and is made from jute, a tropical plant integrating other natural fibers like canvas, straw, silk, hemp and raffia.
Sinclaire Satchel Bag. An elegant choice of designer bag for professional women. Made from microfiber, this bag easily transition from office wardrobe to evening attire. A great choice for gifts for ladies in any occasions. This is embellished with chic buckle details, this bag gives you a one of a kind classic sophistication and trendy appeal on or off your work place. A gorgeous purse, boasts iridescent silver patent leather details and silver hardware studs beg to be worn by working ladies with their designer jeans and cool boots. Very versatile and timeless, this bag is a truly remarkable add-on to any ensembles.
Jennifer Leather Large Purse. Another classic, sophisticated-look accessory to complete a working outfit as well as evening attire. This is an animal-friendly faux-leather handbag that is virtually indistinguishable from the real thing, comes with brass details making a timeworn look for ladies while carrying their daily essentials with elegance.
These are few choices of fashion purses inspired by hottest celebrities today, there are immeasurable accessories that aren't for night-outs, parties and work only. You can find personalized travel bags that allows you to carry travel necessities with style. Or perhaps, personalized cosmetic bags that are simply beautiful, versatile enough to keep your cosmetics while on travel. Of course to make it unique, have then personalize with your initials embroidered or monogrammed on it. These items can make an ideal gift for ladies during their birthdays, graduation, anniversaries and even gifts for bridesmaids and maid of honors at weddings.
About the Author
Jnet is an author for a variety of lifestyle issues and topics. If you're looking for designer handbags, visit the website Bags-purses-totes.com and browse their collection. Get a tote bag at an affordable price
Monday, December 1, 2008
Making Silk Lamp Shades
Making Silk Lamp Shades by Sarah Martin
With all the materials assembled for making a silk shade, the first essential is the wrapping of the wire frame. It does not matter whether these wires will show or not, they must be wrapped or painted. It is possible to paint the entire frame with cream colored enamel, but if one is going to make an ordinary shade it will be advisable to have the wires wrapped with material. Use narrow silk binding tape of neutral tone or inch wide strips of the material used for the lining. Turn in all raw edges as you wind the wires and sew the ends down carefully with as inconspicuous stitches as possible. This winding must be done very tightly and firmly, for if it slips it has lost part of its value and will not look as pleasing with home accessories or picture frame moulding.
If you are a novice at shade-making it is well to try out a piece first, and do over a section, if need be, rather than leave it lumpy or loose. Whether the binding ribbon or the cut strips are used, it will be found easier to handle short pieces of one or two yard lengths.
There are two distinct ways of making silk shades, one of which necessitates putting on the lining first, and the other putting on the outside first. The latter is the simpler method and is probably easier for the beginner. There are also different ways of putting on this outside cover - it may be stretched, pleated or shirred.
The amount of fullness required is the first thing to determine. For very sheer materials like chiffon or georgette or organdie, twice the circumference of the lower ring is allowed. If the pleating and the material are very fine, sometimes three times the circumference is necessary. For taffeta or other heavy silk one and half times the circumference is sufficient.
Allow at least one inch more than the depth of the shade so that you can turn in half an inch at the top and half an inch at the bottom. Sometimes with sheer materials it is wiser to allow more than this - fabrics are apt to be slippery and will pull out of your hand as you are working.
When the material is cut for the right length and depth divide it into six equal sections, provided there are six sections to your lamp shade frame as there usually are. Sometimes there are more uprights for an extremely large frame with corner guards but the same principle is applicable.
Fasten each division point to an upright so that the material is evenly divided around the lower edge of the shade. It is not necessary to sew the final seam before you put it on. For a gathered shade you can shirr it before you put it on, if you wish, or shirr it in sections as you have it pinned. Work on the bottom ring first holding that ring toward you.
Be sure to allow some fullness at each upright wire, so that when you have finished the bottom you will not see where the joints are. Hold the material over the lower wire and take firm stitches sewing right through from front to back, as close to the wire as you can. Use stout thread as these stitches will later be covered and must be firm.
At the final joint fold the upper edge of the material over the lower in a narrow creased seam. This seam must come over one of the vertical wires so that it will not show when the shade is lighted. The material is now sewed to the bottom ring and is ready for sewing at the top. It is done in the same way, dividing the material into six sections and pinning each one in place before you sew it.
Even within these sections it sometimes happens that the material gets pulled to one side, so it is well to hold the shade over a light from time to time to see that the lines are absolutely vertical. Pull the material over the top ring and sew it firmly as on the lower ring so there will be no loose spots, particularly if used with wooden frames. Do not pull it so tight that the frame will be warped but it must be snug. It is now ready for the lining.
If the outside is to be pleated, divide the material in the same way and pin at the vertical joints; then pin each pleat in place for that section, being sure to allow enough material to make the same size pleat over the joint. When these pleats are all pinned in place sew them down as you did the shirring.
The top ring is a little more difficult for it is probably smaller and therefore the pleats will have to be deeper. Pin each pleat in place and test it over a lighted bulb before you sew it. See that all of your lines are straight up and down and then pull it tight and sew it firmly. This one, too, is ready for the lining.
About the Author
Sarah Martin is a freelance marketing writer specializing in home improvement, do-it-yourself home maintenance, and picture frame moulding. For the best in the hardwood moudling and wooden frames industry, please visit http://www.ferche.com/.
With all the materials assembled for making a silk shade, the first essential is the wrapping of the wire frame. It does not matter whether these wires will show or not, they must be wrapped or painted. It is possible to paint the entire frame with cream colored enamel, but if one is going to make an ordinary shade it will be advisable to have the wires wrapped with material. Use narrow silk binding tape of neutral tone or inch wide strips of the material used for the lining. Turn in all raw edges as you wind the wires and sew the ends down carefully with as inconspicuous stitches as possible. This winding must be done very tightly and firmly, for if it slips it has lost part of its value and will not look as pleasing with home accessories or picture frame moulding.
If you are a novice at shade-making it is well to try out a piece first, and do over a section, if need be, rather than leave it lumpy or loose. Whether the binding ribbon or the cut strips are used, it will be found easier to handle short pieces of one or two yard lengths.
There are two distinct ways of making silk shades, one of which necessitates putting on the lining first, and the other putting on the outside first. The latter is the simpler method and is probably easier for the beginner. There are also different ways of putting on this outside cover - it may be stretched, pleated or shirred.
The amount of fullness required is the first thing to determine. For very sheer materials like chiffon or georgette or organdie, twice the circumference of the lower ring is allowed. If the pleating and the material are very fine, sometimes three times the circumference is necessary. For taffeta or other heavy silk one and half times the circumference is sufficient.
Allow at least one inch more than the depth of the shade so that you can turn in half an inch at the top and half an inch at the bottom. Sometimes with sheer materials it is wiser to allow more than this - fabrics are apt to be slippery and will pull out of your hand as you are working.
When the material is cut for the right length and depth divide it into six equal sections, provided there are six sections to your lamp shade frame as there usually are. Sometimes there are more uprights for an extremely large frame with corner guards but the same principle is applicable.
Fasten each division point to an upright so that the material is evenly divided around the lower edge of the shade. It is not necessary to sew the final seam before you put it on. For a gathered shade you can shirr it before you put it on, if you wish, or shirr it in sections as you have it pinned. Work on the bottom ring first holding that ring toward you.
Be sure to allow some fullness at each upright wire, so that when you have finished the bottom you will not see where the joints are. Hold the material over the lower wire and take firm stitches sewing right through from front to back, as close to the wire as you can. Use stout thread as these stitches will later be covered and must be firm.
At the final joint fold the upper edge of the material over the lower in a narrow creased seam. This seam must come over one of the vertical wires so that it will not show when the shade is lighted. The material is now sewed to the bottom ring and is ready for sewing at the top. It is done in the same way, dividing the material into six sections and pinning each one in place before you sew it.
Even within these sections it sometimes happens that the material gets pulled to one side, so it is well to hold the shade over a light from time to time to see that the lines are absolutely vertical. Pull the material over the top ring and sew it firmly as on the lower ring so there will be no loose spots, particularly if used with wooden frames. Do not pull it so tight that the frame will be warped but it must be snug. It is now ready for the lining.
If the outside is to be pleated, divide the material in the same way and pin at the vertical joints; then pin each pleat in place for that section, being sure to allow enough material to make the same size pleat over the joint. When these pleats are all pinned in place sew them down as you did the shirring.
The top ring is a little more difficult for it is probably smaller and therefore the pleats will have to be deeper. Pin each pleat in place and test it over a lighted bulb before you sew it. See that all of your lines are straight up and down and then pull it tight and sew it firmly. This one, too, is ready for the lining.
About the Author
Sarah Martin is a freelance marketing writer specializing in home improvement, do-it-yourself home maintenance, and picture frame moulding. For the best in the hardwood moudling and wooden frames industry, please visit http://www.ferche.com/.
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