Tualatin, OR (September 14, 2007) — Hartmann & Forbes, fabricator of sustainable handcrafted window coverings, has converted its signature ColourWeave Collection to use exclusively Low and No VOC paints (Volatile Organic Compounds). ColourWeave is now one of the most environmentally friendly painted matchstick collections of its kind in the industry.

"The mission of Project Green is to do our best to minimize the environmental impact across our business," said Michael Jones, Hartmann & Forbes' founder and CEO. "The recent strides that paint companies have made in environmentally friendly paints have allowed us, in turn, to provide our clients a more environmentally responsible shade."

Each weave of the ColourWeave collection is handwoven from hand splintered bamboo, and then hand painted in the Northwest finishing facility. The new paints feature minimal levels of VOCs which are organic chemicals that become a breathable gas at room temperature. While VOCs enhance paint coverage and durability, they also contribute to air pollution and can be hazardous to inhale. The paints Hartmann & Forbes now use are specially designed to exceed LEED environmental standards for paint while retaining the durability and colorfastness typically found in VOC varieties.

Available as handwoven roman shades, draperies or PanelScreen™, the ColourWeave Collection features more than 50 standard colors including stains and hand twisted bamboo. Shades may be made in widths of up to 144 inches with custom colors and striping options also available.

Hand Painted in the USA
In order to maintain quality control over each product, all ColourWeave Collections will continue to be painted in the United States. This practice was put in place in conjunction with the product launch in 2005. "Painting each weave in our local facility allows us to maintain the most stringent quality controls."

About Hartmann & Forbes
Hartmann & Forbes is an independent company dedicated to preserving ancient handcrafting traditions through modern and innovative designs. Founded in 1998 by company CEO Michael Jones, Hartmann & Forbes prides itself on superior craftsmanship, design integrity and the preservation of natural resources. The company specializes in manufacturing fine, handwoven roman shades, bamboo cornices and the industry's first handwoven draperies, PanelScreen™. Hartmann & Forbes window and wall coverings are available through a network of high-end U.S and international showrooms. The company's website can be found at www.hfshades.com.

   

Media Contacts:	Joe Gosselin Hartmann & Forbes 503.692.9313 joe@hfshades.com