Picking the Perfect Print
Understanding what pattern repeat is and why it's important is only half the key to pattern success. You also need to choose the right print-with the right pattern repeat-for your project.

To do so, determine the finished width and length of the project, as well as the size of each section. For instance, if a shade is 36 inches wide, it may have three 12-inch-wide sections, similar to the shade at the beginning of this story. If a shade will almost always be drawn, determine its length in that position. Next, determine the placement of the design on the treatment (commonly centered horizontally and vertically in each section).

Based on these decisions and measurements, evaluate the pattern scale and repeat on the fabrics you are considering. A motif that is wider or longer than each section of the window treatment will not be seen completely, losing the desired effect and perhaps making the fabric look entirely different. On the other hand, be aware that a small pattern can get lost in large or full treatment sections. Viewing a small pattern on a window at a distance can make it disappear, or cause colors to blend.

Note how a pattern repeats across the width of the fabric, as was carefully considered in the room above. If it does not repeat to coordinate with your measurements or does not repeat at all, the same design cannot be centered in each section. Also, consider the fullness of the treatment: The more fullness, the less the pattern will show. If you want to feature a specific motif, consider a window treatment that is flat or has flat sections to highlight the design.