Cutting the Rugs
First, it was polyester suits. Then it was the Bee Gees. Now it’s the shag. Not the haircut, the carpet.
Shag carpeting, that staple of the ‘60s and ‘70s is back, but it’s been updated to perform better than ever.
Improved yarns, new twist constructions and Scotchgard protection are helping to keep shags looking better for a lot longer.
Tuftex, a division of Queen Carpet Corp., based in Sante Fe Springs, has introduced its Ultra Chic line in 24 colors.
The Ultra Chic shags have a pile more than 2 inches deep. These carpets (about $50 a yard) hold their shape, resist soiling and are easily maintained.
“Shags are extremely durable,” says Jay Flynn, manager of marketing at Tuftex. “Shag yarns have wear distributed along sides as well as the tips, allowing them to maintain their shape. The Scotchgard treatment also helps keep the carpet looking better longer.”
In Orange County, Ultra Chic shags are available at Sterling Carpet, 1439 S. State College, Anaheim, (714) 533-6500 and Prestige, 23351 Avenida de la Carlota, Laguna Hills, (714) 768-7445.
For more information, call (800) 366-8839
In the Clear
Redefine tradition with Banana Republic’s Modern fragrance, a classic floral scent with a nostalgic twist.
The bottle, with an Art Deco feel, is a custom-designed faceted glass bottle, which was inspired by the glass block facade of the glass house or Maison de Verre in Paris.
This house was designed in the 1930s by Pierre Chareau. The bottle’s bulb atomizer adds a romantic note to the architecturally inspired bottle. The fragrance itself is the color of clear, green glass, so it doesn’t detract from the bottle’s lines. It would be a nice addition to anyone’s boudoir.
The top notes of Modern (about $58) are a combination of tuberose and white peppercorn. The middle notes are a combination of bergamot, magnolia, African geranium and eucalyptus. The bottom notes are composed of orris root, cedar and sandalwood, traditionally used in men’s fragrances to add a warm sophistication.
The Base Coat
Before you paint, layer on some protection.
Brush Stuff, a paint brush and roller cover conditioner, makes cleaning easier and faster. It works with any kind of paint brush, whether it’s natural China bristle, nylon or polyester, and with most paints including latex, acrylic or oil-based. It even works with quick-dry primers.
To use, apply Brush Stuff (about $6) to the bristles of brushes and roller covers before painting. Brush Stuff prevents paint from bonding to the brush and roller covers. Brush Stuff will not affect the color or properties of the paint.
One tube contains about 100 applications. Brush Stuff is available in most home centers, paint and hardware stores. For more information or to locate the nearest retailer, call (800) 321-3444.
