© Joan Currie

Tassel (noun)

A tuft of loosely hanging threads or cords, bound at one end and hanging free at the other, used as an ornament on curtains or clothing.

The Laura Ashley Home Decorating books taught me how to make draperies. Using the company’s lovely cotton fabric, I sewed traditional lined curtains with valances and tie-backs, and softer Festoon blinds for my Boston home. The decor is much the same in my West Coast home, but my fabric choices now include brocade, silk, and velvet for a more luxurious look. In addition, tassels have replaced simple cotton tie-backs, and serve as inspirations for other decorative elements such as throws, pillows, and wall art.