Window Treatment Glossary

When decorating your teen's room, details matter — and window treatments make a big style statement. Our glossary of terms describes some of the finer points that will help you pick out the perfect window treatment.

Blackout Lining

A type of drape that seals out light.

Finials

Decorative caps at the ends of curtain rods.

Holdbacks

Brackets (usually decorative) that mount to either side of a window to hold back drapery. Pottery Barn Teen holdbacks are sold as a set of two and coordinate with our window rod collections.

Panel

Hanging fabric used as a window covering. May be hung flat for a tailored look or gathered in multiples across a wider window for a softer, fuller appearance.

Pole-Pocket

A fabric casing that runs along the top of a curtain, allowing it to be slipped over a curtain rod without the need for hooks or rings.

Tab Top

A type of drapery construction in which wide, flat loops (tabs) are spaced along the top of the curtain. The curtain rod is slipped through the tabs.

Tie Top

A type of drapery construction in which fabric ties are spaced along the top of the curtain. May be tied directly to the curtain rod or to rings, which allow the curtain to slide easily along the rod.

Valance

A short drapery across the top of a window. May dress the window alone (on a single rod) or be layered in front of additional panel(s) on a double rod for a more complete window covering. Hang flat for a tailored look or gathered in multiples across a wider window.