Today's Dust Ruffle styles...
Dust Ruffle come in different constructions styles, here are some of the most popular and an explanation of the new 3 piece constructions styles.
Putting a dust ruffle on your bed is not always as simple as it seems. Sometimes it takes one, two or even three people to get it right. Even then, it may not look like the neat display you saw in the store.
Some dust ruffles are too long, others are too short and some just don’t look right. That is because there are different styles and the key to a great look is finding the right style to fit your bed.
Dust ruffles are also referred to as bed skirts or petty skirts. They serve the purpose of giving you your bed a tailored foundation. They also do a great job of concealing your bed frame and all those little things underneath your bed.
Dust ruffles are either tailored, softly gathered, or tailored with a box pleat. Dust ruffles have two basic types of construction and we refer to them as (1) piece - old construction and new (3) piece construction:
Old Construction Style:
- Traditional one-piece construction dust ruffles have decking, which is actually an inexpensive lining or muslin type of fabric. The decking is sandwiched between your box spring and mattress and the decorative fabric is sewn to the decking. This construction style allows the decorative fabric to hang over the box spring and stretch down to the floor.
- This design generally comes in (2) lengths. It is important to note that the length of the dust ruffle is called the drop. There are 14-inch or 16-inch drops.
- There is no standard bed height in today’s market, so there is always the risk of a dust ruffle being too long or too short. As a general rule, the dust ruffle should barely touch the floor.
- When putting on a dust ruffle, you should take the mattress off the box spring. Also, keep in mind that laundering your dust ruffle will result in about 5% shrinkage, which will create more issues. Don’t expect a perfect-length dust ruffle to fit as well after washing it.
New Construction Style:
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A vast number of manufacturers are now producing dust ruffles in 3 panels (2 for the sides of the bed and 1 for the foot). The panels should be pinned into the box spring, which negates the need to remove the mattress when putting on the dust ruffle. Position the panels between the box spring and mattress. Next, pin the fabric into place. Pins are typically upholstery type, which are included with the dust ruffle.
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Specialty mattresses generally call for a Velcro attachment, assuming you are looking to use one-piece construction. Examples of these specialty mattresses are Tempurpedic or air mattresses.
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In the event that a one-piece construction ruffle winds up being too long, the pins provide a quick and easy way to shorten the dust ruffle. Just pin the skirt under the mattress.
Styles:
There are different styles of dust ruffles, although these three are the most popular.
Fabrics:
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The fabric used to make dust ruffles differ. They could include cotton sheet weight or upholstery type fabrics. When choosing a lightweight fabric, it is a good idea to have it lined. Any extra weight or body in the fabric allows the panels to hang better.
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Pique fabrics are ideal for ruffles because they have a good amount of body, do not need lining, and also do a great job of holding their shape.
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One of our favorite styles uses two layers of fabric. The underside can be either cotton or silk, while the outer layer is silk organza (sheer). When using two layers of fabric, a gathered dust ruffle is the best choice as it gives off a full, romantic look at the bottom of the bed.
When it comes time to make your bed over in luxury, check out Vero Linens. Our large supply of fine bed linens can accommodate any bedroom and provide a look of elegance. We also sell snow white down, feather sleeping pillows, down comforters and other luxury linens.
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