STYLE FOCUS

Tab Top Panels

Often seen in historic interiors, tab tops have a simple, clean design. This style has become less favored in custom interiors because they are one of the most affordable ready-made styles. But with the addition of custom detailing, imaginative add-ons and quality fabrics tab tops can be the perfect style and valued design for any room.

Tab Top Basics
The basic tab top features folded tabs inserted into the top seamed edge of a panel. Tabs can be of any size but must be made to accommodate the diameter of the hardware being used. The width of each tab will determine the stack-back of the finished panel.

Smooth wooden rods work best for working tab tops as they allow the tabs to move easier. Plastic inserts are available which are discretely secured with double sided adhesive tape inside the top of each tab to help reduce the friction between fabric and hardware for working tab panels. Stationary tab tops should be used for hardware with a rough finish such as bronzed iron or carved wood.

Tab Top Styles
Basic tab top panels can be the perfect choice for modern interiors such as loft apartments or contemporary homes. The clean lines and minimal fullness are less fussy than other panel styles. They can also be the perfect choice for casual interiors, beach homes or children's rooms. The tabs can be easily changed to fabric ties which can be secured to bed frames, medallions or other unique hardware such as hooks, branches or rings with knots or bows.

Tab tops can also be used for formal rooms. By simply using your imagination the tab can become the focal point of the drapery heading. For example: By adding a horizontal tab and pinching it together with the vertical tab and securing with a button you can create a trefoil design.

Another popular trend in formal drapery panel design is to have rouched and slouched headings on panels. This is easily accomplished with tab tops by adding a sleeve of fabric over the tabs to create a repeating gathered effect. A wide, gathered tabs with a scrunched sleeve over the tab creates an interesting row of vertical and horizontal gathers across the heading. The tabs are placed far apart to allow for a dramatic swagged effect.

A buttoned tap is a simple add-on. This is made by inserting only one end of the tab into the top of the panel and fastening the other end of the tab to the front of the panel with a button. A unique twist on this idea is to add buttons at the top of the tab. The tab is stitched horizontally under each button to create a little tab above the pole rod.

Materials
Any type of material can be used for tab top panels. Unlined sheer, linen or cotton will give a light and airy appearance. Tab top panels can be the perfect choice for cabanas, porches or patios using fabrics specifically for outdoor use. Lined and interlined silk tab top panels can be very elegant and dramatic if the panel length is allowed to puddle to the floor.

Fabric combinations can add interest. Color blocked panels which combine two or three different colors or patterns of material in one panel is a great choice for tab tops. Another idea is to use different materials for the tabs such leather tabs attached with a rustic metal embellishment or buckle to a tapestry panel or silk tabs with tasseled ends accenting a velvet panel.

Tab tops can be trimmed and provides the perfect backdrop for intricate inset banding techniques or custom painting. Welt cord can add a simple detail especially across the top edge where the tabs are inserted and fringe can embellish hems or headings.

What's Old is New Again
Tab tops are undergoing a renaissance with the creation of unique tab styles, beautiful fabric combinations, custom detailing and gorgeous hardware. The simple tab top has withstood the test of time and can still inspire designers and workrooms to turn this simple style into an eye catching decorative custom window covering for any decor.

Susan Schurz is an instructor at CHF Academy and owns and operates Tavern Hill, a professional custom drapery workroom that provides made-to-order window treatments and home dé cor accessories.