Curtains are the go-to window treatment because of their versatility, visual appeal and practicality. Ready-made and custom varieties are available in a wide array of colours, fabrics, lengths and linings. They can transform the appearance of any room, provided they are chosen correctly. But finding the perfect curtains from the plethora of options out there can be overwhelming. So, we asked our window covering pros to narrow down your search by compiling this guide. Have a look.
A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing Awesome Curtains for Your Home
Fabric and Weight
Fabric plays a vital role in determining the look, feel and functionality of curtains which is why it should be your priority when buying window treatments. If the fabric is too heavy, the curtains will not fold crisply when drawn, and too light a fabric will be difficult to handle. Linen, silk, velvet and sheers are some of the most common curtain fabrics, and each has distinct features, outlined below:
- Linen offers a crisp, classic look, making it perfect for simple curtains and draperies. It has enough weight to puddle on the floor, giving a voluminous look, and is a good pick for homes with minimalist décor. However, an extra layer is advisable for privacy and to block light.
- Velvet is a heavy, thick material that insulates. It’s ideal for patio doors and drafty windows as it helps maintain the temperature in winter. This fabric comes in a wide range of vibrant colours to match your home’s existing colour scheme. Plus, it offers a lot of privacy and can keep out most light.
- Silk curtains are the preferred choice for homeowners who want to give their windows a luxurious look. This fabric has a sumptuous weight that adds an instant sense of luxury. The intense, rich dyes of numerous colours make this fabric a treat for the eyes. Silk is a great choice for pleated curtains with long panels that puddle on the floor. Decorating silk curtains with valances is considered the best combination. However, they need to be protected from direct sunlight to avoid discolouration.
- Sheers are lightweight and give a billowing effect. If you want to give your windows a casual look, sheer curtains are your best bet. They neither provide privacy nor block light but offer ample chances to experiment with colour, weave and shimmer.
Colour and Pattern
Picking the perfect curtain colour depends on several factors, including the purpose of the room, your home décor, window placement and the stylistic statement you want to make. Here are a few tips to choose the right colour.
- You can either go for a complementary shade that accentuates your existing colour scheme or create a unique vibe by choosing a hue that doesn’t tie in with what you currently have.
- If your room is decorated in a formal manner, patterned or printed curtains will add colour and texture to the space, thus giving a dramatic effect.
- Avoid bright colours when installing curtains on a window that receives maximum sunlight as it will fade the fabric over time.
- You can also experiment with curtains by layering them. Put a curtain with a bold colour or pattern on top of or next to a neutral-coloured one. This will make an eye-catching statement.
- If you are choosing curtains for your bedroom, it’s advisable to go for dark colours to provide a sleep-conducive environment even after the sun rises.
Length and Width
To achieve your desired look, measure windows to make sure the curtains fit properly. Many window covering pros advise buying curtain fabric at least six inches longer than the window frame length. This is because hanging curtains higher than the window frame gives the room a sense of height. As far as width is concerned, be sure to add four to eight inches on both sides to give fullness to your curtains. Plus, it will provide extra coverage and block light.
Ready-Made and Custom Curtains
Another parameter to filter your curtain selection is whether to buy custom or off-the-shelf. Both options have their advantages. If you buy custom, you can change them according to your window size to create a tailored look; it’s also an excellent option for oddly-shaped windows like arched and circular ones. By contrast, there’s a chance of fit problems if you choose ready-made curtains, although they are considerably less expensive. If custom curtains aren’t in your budget, go for high-quality window treatments to make the most of your purchase.
Buying curtains for your windows isn’t as easy as it might seem. It’s important to choose the right fabric, colour, pattern, fit, light-blocking/exposing qualities and privacy to find window coverings that best suit your needs. We hope these suggestions from our window treatment pros will help you pick the perfect curtains for your living space. Still have questions? Feel free to get in touch with us.
