Decorating Glossary

a b c d e f g h i j l m n o p r s t u v w

A
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Learn how to re-create this inviting lodge bedroom, which uses layers of fabric with Americana prints like plaids and ticking.
acanthus
Ornamentation representing leaves of the acanthus plant.


adaptive reuse
The design trend of turning what was once a public place or dilapidated commercial building into a living space.


alcove
A recessed area in a room.


Americana
Objects that are characteristic of American history or culture.


apron
Trim attached below a tabletop or window sill.


aniline dye
A stain that achieves a rich, yet translucent color.


antique
Art, buildings, furniture, accessories or personal possessions that are over 100 years old.


antique satin
A sateen or horizontal satin drapery fabric with slubs that imitates spun shantung silk.

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Get details on this art glass collection.

art glass
Decorative glass--includes stained, beveled, fused, blown, etched, leaded and cut.


Aubusson
A scenic tapestry used for wall hangings and upholstery; named for Aubusson, France.


Austrian shade
Similar to a Roman shade but with soft, billowing folds. More info>>

B

bachelor's chest
A small, low chest that contains three drawers.

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Balloon shade

balloon shade
A shade that features a gathered bottom edge when raised. More info>>

baluster
An upright support, as used on a piece of furniture, stair rail or supporting post of a handrail.

banquette
A built-in upholstered bench along a wall, often used in breakfast areas.

barkcloth
A soft and textured fabric that resembles the bark of a tree.

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Get instructions on how to make this beautiful batik wall hanging.
batik
Form of hand-printing fabric that orginated in Indonesia; technique involves using wax as a resist to create a negative image. More info>>

batting
Thin layers of natural or synthetic cloth used to line cushions, pillows, quilts or crafts.

bishop’s sleeve
A drapery treatment with side panels of lightweight fabric tied back slightly above the midpoint to form a billowing drape above and a flowing effect below. More info>>

blockfront chest
A chest of drawers with a concave center section.

bobeche
Glass ring placed at the base of a candle to gather wax or dangle crystals.

bolster
A cylindrical stuffed pillow.

bombé
Chest with a bulbous, curving form.

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Box pleat

box pleat
A pleat made by forming two folded edges facing into each other. More info>>

breakfront
A large cabinet or bookcase whose center section projects beyond the two end sections.

broadcloth
Dense cotton fabric with a smooth, semi-gloss finish.

brocade
A heavy fabric interwoven with a rich, raised design.

bullion fringe
Long corded fringe used with upholstery or on window treatments.

bun foot
A round ball-shaped foot normally used on a chest, chair or armoire.

burled wood
A hard wood cut from a large rounded growth on a tree characterized by a large swirl and often used as a veneer or inlay.