Frequently-Asked Widget Questions
Can I make wider shades than listed in the Widget specifications?
We list the width for which fabric seems to fold nicely by itself when retracted. Our rule of thumb is 1 cord for every 10" of width, although workrooms have expanded this by using ribs to stiffen the folds. When designing, you need to keep in mind that the customer has to pull down and lift the weight of the treatment to lower and raise it. Experiment as you wish, keeping the published weight limits in mind!
Can I make Roman Shades with more than 4 cords?
Fabricators have successfully combined two Widgets on the same headrail. We would recommend pairing same-size Widgets whenever possible. We have fabricators building shades 62" wide (2 x 4-cord Widgets), but the length of the cords always limits the height to 84". Generally, the limits are the fabric type and the resulting weight more than the dimensions.
Can you add hidden ribs to the shade at the folds with this lift system?
Yes, and the Widget will function as usual
Can you use other cord securing systems instead of the ladder tape? What is the cord size?
The Widget’s cord is 1mm diameter, and we supply Ladder Tape as our preferred cord securing system.
Can I adjust the tension in the Widget?
The tension in the spring mechanisim is fixed, but over-tightening the Widget mounting screws can increase the effort needed to lower the shade. Try loosening the mounting screws until the Widget can just rock very slightly on the mounting board.
What's the best cordless solution for wider-width Roman Shades (over 48")?
There are several things to consider, such as weight of the fabric and/or structure of the shade (i.e. ribs). One option would be to combine Widgets for more cords. Sometimes, the better option on a wide width might be a continuous cord system that allows the wider shade to be raised and lowered from one end instead of from hem grips in the middle of the shade.
Will you ship to Canada?
Yes, Centurion ships by UPS to Canada "Delivery Duty Unpaid" or DDU. UPS will contact you to obtain payment information for Customs, Duty, and Brokerage fees, which seem to average around 10% of the cost of Goods + Shipping.
Is there a special way to tie off Orbs?
The idea when tying off cords at the orbs is to ensure that the cord does not slip through the orb under tension. Here's a good knot to use (twice!) with the orbs (consider the ring in the sketch as the small arched opening in the orb's button). Technically, the sketch below is for a "half-hitch" knot, but when you do it twice, it's a hitch knot:
We list the width for which fabric seems to fold nicely by itself when retracted. Our rule of thumb is 1 cord for every 10" of width, although workrooms have expanded this by using ribs to stiffen the folds. When designing, you need to keep in mind that the customer has to pull down and lift the weight of the treatment to lower and raise it. Experiment as you wish, keeping the published weight limits in mind!
Can I make Roman Shades with more than 4 cords?
Fabricators have successfully combined two Widgets on the same headrail. We would recommend pairing same-size Widgets whenever possible. We have fabricators building shades 62" wide (2 x 4-cord Widgets), but the length of the cords always limits the height to 84". Generally, the limits are the fabric type and the resulting weight more than the dimensions.
Can you add hidden ribs to the shade at the folds with this lift system?
Yes, and the Widget will function as usual
Can you use other cord securing systems instead of the ladder tape? What is the cord size?
The Widget’s cord is 1mm diameter, and we supply Ladder Tape as our preferred cord securing system.
Can I adjust the tension in the Widget?
The tension in the spring mechanisim is fixed, but over-tightening the Widget mounting screws can increase the effort needed to lower the shade. Try loosening the mounting screws until the Widget can just rock very slightly on the mounting board.
What's the best cordless solution for wider-width Roman Shades (over 48")?
There are several things to consider, such as weight of the fabric and/or structure of the shade (i.e. ribs). One option would be to combine Widgets for more cords. Sometimes, the better option on a wide width might be a continuous cord system that allows the wider shade to be raised and lowered from one end instead of from hem grips in the middle of the shade.
Will you ship to Canada?
Yes, Centurion ships by UPS to Canada "Delivery Duty Unpaid" or DDU. UPS will contact you to obtain payment information for Customs, Duty, and Brokerage fees, which seem to average around 10% of the cost of Goods + Shipping.
Is there a special way to tie off Orbs?
The idea when tying off cords at the orbs is to ensure that the cord does not slip through the orb under tension. Here's a good knot to use (twice!) with the orbs (consider the ring in the sketch as the small arched opening in the orb's button). Technically, the sketch below is for a "half-hitch" knot, but when you do it twice, it's a hitch knot:
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Can I put a Return on a Roman Shade?
Integrated Returns add a more complete look to Roman Shades. Here is a pattern to print full-size and use. |
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Can I put a Concealed Hem Grip on a Roman Shade?
Yes...here is a technique for a Concealed Hem Grip/Permanent Fold/Edge Trim on a Roman Shade |
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