Drapery length calculation?
Finished height
- header
- hem
= preliminary length
Preliminary length ÷ pattern repeat
→ round UP
× repeat
= cut length per panel
Typical drapery fullness factors?
100% = 2× width
150% = 2.5×
200% = 3×
Drapery calculation formula?
Window width (amount of ft*12)
+ stacking (fabric width ÷ 3)
+ returns/overlap (assume 12” for R+O)
× fullness factor
What is the correct NCIDQ method to calculate broadloom carpet?
Determine seam direction (parallel to longest dimension)
Add all cut LENGTHS of carpet required
= total linear feet
Convert to linear yards
feet ÷ 3
x total yards by roll width (converted to yds)
Round UP
= square yards required
What is the correct stair carpet calculation method?
Measure tread depth.
Measure riser height.
Add tread + riser = one stair unit.
Multiply by number of steps.
Add landing length (if present).
= total run length
Total run length ÷ roll width
= number of widths
(No extra tread unless question states)
20 ft wide room, 12 ft roll — how many widths?
20 ÷ 12 = 1.67 → round to 2 widths
Broadloom carpet calculation formula?
Number of widths needed = Room width ÷ roll width (round UP)
Cut length = room length + waste
Total carpet = widths × cut length
How do you adjust calculations for wallpaper pattern repeat?
Wall height
÷ pattern repeat
→ round UP
× repeat
= adjusted strip length
(then use adjusted strip length to find strips per roll)
When do you NOT subtract openings in wallpaper finish calculations?
Small openings or specified by material type (ex: vinyl under 54”)
Drapery stack-back formula?
space for stack-back = Fabric width ÷ 3
Typical amount to account for both overlap and return on a set of drapery panels?
12”
Typical center drapery overlap?
6”
Typical drapery return depths?
3-3.5” EACH SIDE
How do you calculate VINYL wallcovering (linear length method)?
STEP 1 — Find wall area
Perimeter × height
STEP 2 — Subtract openings
Subtract doors only
Do NOT subtract windows under 54” width
STEP 3 — Divide by material width
Wall area ÷ roll width (in feet)
= linear feet required
STEP 4 — Convert to linear yards
Linear feet ÷ 3
⚠ No pattern repeat adjustment unless stated
What are the advantages and disadvantages of a general partnership?
Advantages:
* Shared management and decision-making
* Shared financial resources
* Pass-through taxation
Disadvantages:
* Unlimited personal liability for all partners
* Each partner liable for actions of the other
* Potential for internal disputes
How do you calculate wallpaper using the strip method?
STEP 1 — Find wall area
Perimeter × wall height
STEP 2 — Subtract openings
Subtract 15 sq ft per door
(Do NOT subtract small windows unless stated)
STEP 3 — Adjust strip length for pattern repeat
Wall height ÷ repeat
→ round UP
× repeat = adjusted strip length
STEP 4 — Find strips per roll
Roll length ÷ adjusted strip length
STEP 5 — Find number of strips needed
Wall perimeter ÷ roll width = strips needed
STEP 6 — Find rolls
Total strips ÷ strips per roll
→ round UP
⚠ Do NOT add waste unless question says
What are the advantages and disadvantages of a corporation?
Advantages:
* Limited liability for shareholders
* Easier to raise capital
* Business continuity beyond owners
Disadvantages:
* Double taxation (corporate + dividends)
* More complex setup and regulation
* Formal reporting requirements
What are the advantages and disadvantages of a sole proprietorship?
Advantages:
* Simple and inexpensive to establish
* Full control by owner
* Minimal regulatory requirements
Disadvantages:
* Unlimited personal liability
* Difficult to raise capital
* Business ends if owner leaves or dies
What are the advantages and disadvantages of an S-corporation?
Advantages:
* Limited liability
* Pass-through taxation (no double tax)
* Professional credibility
Disadvantages:
* Ownership restrictions (limited shareholders)
* More administrative requirements than partnership
* Must meet IRS eligibility rules
What are the advantages and disadvantages of an LLC?
Limited liability for members
* Flexible taxation (can choose tax structure)
* Fewer formalities than corporation
Disadvantages:
* State regulations vary
* May have limited life in some states
* Can be harder to raise capital than corporation
What are the advantages and disadvantages of a limited partnership?
Advantages:
* Limited partners have limited liability
* Useful for raising capital from investors
Disadvantages:
* At least one general partner has unlimited liability
* Limited partners have little management control
What is the key difference between a sole proprietorship and an LLC?
Sole Proprietor = No legal separation → Personal assets at risk
LLC = Legal separation → Personal assets protected
What is the key difference between a general partnership and a limited partnership?
General partners manage and are fully liable; limited partners have limited liability but limited control.
How is a billing rate calculated in an interior design firm?
Step 1: Determine direct labor cost (employee salary or hourly wage).
Step 2: Add fringe benefits (taxes, insurance, etc.).
Step 3: Determine overhead (rent, utilities, admin, etc.).
Step 4: Apply a multiplier to cover overhead + profit.
Billing Rate = Direct Labor × Multiplier
Typical multiplier range: 2.7 – 3.0