Tassels are a wonderful addition to any space, and are so much more versatile than simply using them to tie back our draperies and dress our windows.

A Tassel is defined as a finishing feature in fabric decoration. It is a universal ornament that is seen in varying versions in many cultures around the world. The word "tassel" comes from the Latin "tassau", which refers to a clasp.

It was, at first the termination of a cord to prevent unraveling with a knot.

As time went on however, several people developed variations on this until the 16th century in France, when the art of "passementerie" (French decorative trimmings) was born, and included fringes, cords, pompons, rosettes and so on.

We have used tassels throughout history, both in décor and fashion, and it has never gone out of style. I have worked with tassels in varying styles , designs and sizes from elegantly designed crystals and contemporary covered wooden , to glass beaded tassels. You never know where you will meet a great tassel, in our many fabric shops and home décor stores throughout the country.

Tassels consists of three main parts; "the cord ", which is used to suspend the tassel; "the top", which holds the fringe in place; and "the skirt" , which is the fringe that hangs from inside the top of the piece. They can range in design, from very simple to extremely heavy and ornate.

Using tassels is a sure way to lighten up your whole house. Tiebacks – especially the decorative ones – also add spice to your space. Look around your home, and you will find some furniture or fixture that may be enhanced by attaching tassels.

They are decorative items that can serve as a conversation piece with your guests and visitors. That's why it is important that you should carefully choose the type of tassel that's best suited to your décor. Your choice will reflect the taste that you have when it comes to home decorations.

Remember, compare the prices, designs, raw materials, and of course, the durability of the tassels that you are eyeing before buying.

CREATIVE TASSELS IDEAS

• Hang tassels on both sides of a wall hanging

• Drape a tassel off the back of dining room chair covers

• Hang a small tassel from the top of a lamp shade

• Hang tassels from the drawer pull on your end tables

• Pin a small bead or glass tassel to the front of a candle

• Tie tassels to the handles of a basket that holds your magazines

• Add small tassels to the four corners of your bedspreads and tablecloths

• Use tassels in place of napkin rings at your table settings

• Use a tassel as a back drop for your art, hang a tassel approx 12" above or your art.

• Hang a fabulous beaded tassel on a handbag on the end of a pull string.

• Use tassels to adorn an ottoman or pouf

• Tassels can be hot glued unto pasties or hems of garments

• Hot glue at the back of a pair of stilettos

• Make great wedding favors; for example, placed them on the top of bookmarks

• Place a large tassel around a bridal bouquet and allow it to hang at the front

• Homemade tassels are a unique way to decorate your Christmas trees

• Attach a tassel on the chain of your ceiling fan

Think outside the drapery tieback box; now you know that tassels are far more than a dangling ornament. Apart from using tassels to tieback drapery, you can always look for creative ways to display your tassels, whether to display art, enhance furniture or other elements in and around your home. To the hobbyist or anyone looking for a weekend project, there are a number of websites with simple steps on how to make your own tiebacks…Enjoy!

Lisa Moore

Owner Lismoore

Drapery & Interiors

Member of the Window Covering Association of America (WCAA)

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