Last week I attended the International Window coverings expo in Charlotte for the first time in a few years. It was a busy show and many of the attendees were optimistic about their businesses and the economy.

A big highlight of the show was motorization as well as new and innovative child-safe cords on shades. One innovation was a wand similar to the wands on a blind that you can give a slight tug and the shade slowly goes up. This will be introduced to the marketplace in the next six months. You can see this on my YouTube channel.

Another company introduced their line of motors and remotes which were smaller and sleeker than other ones currently available. And they are much easier to operate, as seen here. They can also be operable with an iPhone.

Roman and roller shades are increasingly popular as the fabrics have become more beautiful. These are not your grandmother’s roller shades!

Everyone was wowed by a new introduction of wood drapery poles trimmed in leather. There are several leather samples and colors to choose from along with many wood samples. This would be a very classy touch to a home office, a den, or even a man cave.

Large wide bands were seen at one of the vendors and would be a fabulous addition to a solid or textured fabric on a long drapery.

olid or textured fabric on a long drapery.