Frequently-Asked Questions

Ask the Pros at Prismatek!

To better serve your needs we have provided this online "Question & Answer" section.

Q: I see many sheers in your program, how do you define a sheer?

A: Transparent fabrics are sheers. There are some borderlines for that definition. For example there is a pattern called "LINUM". When you see this pattern, even on our website, you can imagine that we are not sure. - Is this a sheer or not. - Since you can hardly look through it, we decided to group this fabric to the Deco Collection.

Q: I very often find in your description of patterns that you specify -height- instead of -width-

A: Yes, this happens only with sheers. Sheers run very often 118" wide. This is the standard European width of 300cm. One side of this sheer is manufactured with rolled hem. We call this also: European hem. This strip is heavy to hold the curtain down. The fabric is railroaded. This is the reason why we say it is the height. Picture the sheer as a window treatment. The bottom line, rolled hem (European hem) on the floor and measure the 118" from the floor to the upper part of the window. In case the window is not that high, you get material to use the rest for a sham.

Q: I find your sheers expensive. Why is this?

A: Please understand that you get a lot of material when our sheet is 118" high. If you compare that with standard good of 54" you get almost 2 1/2 times more material. When you see and more important: feel our sheers, you will find that there is a lot of sophistication built in. The finishing process gets a lot of attention and is the pride of the mill.

Q: How long is the lead-time?

A: From the time we process the order to sending it via UPS we need three weeks. For All Chenilles we need six weeks.

Q: When do you process an order?

A: Prismatek has no open accounts. We accept a 50% down payment to process an order. However, we accept a faxed check from our customers as a proof of payment before it is placed in the mail. That speeds the process up significantly. The balance is due prior to shipping.

Q: What is your definition of deco fabric?

A: A deco fabric is used for all decoration purposes. This could be window treatment, wall covering, curtain, light upholstery or a pillow case. It is not a sheer and it is not upholstery material.

Q: What is Upholstery fabric?

A: The primary use for Upholstery fabric is for all seating covers. However, we have seen it used frequently for wall coverings. Especially in airplanes, yachts and cruise ships.

Q: What about fireproofing?

A: Our fabrics can be fire proofed to all standard fire codes in the US. For an extra fee the fabric will be fire treated to your specifications. We send the material to the end user with a certificate included. The advantage of our method we use for this finishing process is that you can hardly feel the difference when it comes back fire proofed. The chemicals our contractor uses are non-toxic.

Q: What is Trevira CS?

A: The yarn is inherently 100% flame retardant. After all the sophisticated finishing processes are performed, it is amazing how this fabric looks and feels. We can only encourage you to use it. We are sure that we will offer more Trevira CS goods in the future.

Q: What is Modal?

A: Modal is currently called the new wonder fabric. Made from beech wood chips, this fabric combines the benefits of natural fiber and the fantastically soft feel of modern microform. Modal fibers are dimensionally stable and do not get pulled out of shape when wet like many rayon yarns. They are also wear resistant and strong while maintaining a soft, silky feel. Textiles made from Modal do not fibrillate, or pill, like cotton does They are smooth and soft, more so than even mercerized cotton. Modal is a registered trademark of Lenzing AG, an Austrian company specializing in textiles and fibers, particularly natural fibers made from cellulose.

Q: What is the main advantage of Polyester?

A: When you use PE, abbreviation for Polyester, color fading after the fabric is exposed to sunlight is not a problem. The handling and durability is just wonderful. You almost do not have to iron this material.

Q: Why do you use so many mixed fibers?

A: This is what makes the fabric world so magic. It shines, it sparkles, it is iridescent and it is glossy or matte. It feels like cotton, silk or linen. You, the professional decide what you like best for the job. We want to give you the best tools available. It is our goal to give you the best the old world has to offer.

Q: What is Ikat?

A: Ikat pronounced (ee-kat) is a derivative of the Malaysian word "mengikat" which means "to tie". Weaving the pattern after fibers are dyed produces a blurred effect because of the way the yarns absorb the dye. A fuzzy edge is accentuated during weaving. Ikat is a style of weaving that has been performed worldwide. Records of Ikat go back 1200 years in Yemen and Java, Pre-Columbian Peru, Guatemala and Central Asia. It was developed as a fine art during the Middle Ages through the Renaissance when Western Europe was developing Tapestry. Because it is difficult to create, some cultures believe Ikat has magical powers. Universally it stood as a symbol of status and prestige. Discussion of Ikats recalls an old fairy tale of a weaver who got bored making the same cloth. He started inventing new patterns by looking at clouds reflected in the water.

Q: Can you explain "chenille" please?

A: The term chenille is used broadly. It is a fuzzy type of yarn whose pile resembles a caterpillar. Chenilles are luxurious fabrics of soft texture that may crush and mark more than other fabrics. Crushing of the surface creates a random shading which is considered a desirable expression of the fabric�s elegance.

Q.: How do you measure abrasion resistance?

A: Abrasion resistance is the ability of a fiber or fabric to withstand surface wear and rubbing. It is tested by simulating surface wear of a material in actual use.

Criteria of measuring resistance are:

1. Visual comparison in appearance.
2. The number of abrasion cycles required to form a hole or failure in the fabric.
3. The strength in loss caused by a number of abrasion cycles.