Curtains – What you need to know

What types of curtains are avaiable?

Curtains come in a wide variety of styles, shapes and textures...you are sure to find one that suits your window needs.

The traditional curtain is made from a panel of material that can be lined to control light and conserve energy, and have a sheer curtain placed behind it for privacy.

Dress curtains are purely for effect and are too narrow to be drawn across the window. They are economical on fabric and create the impression of having floor to ceiling curtains.

Festoons are a decorative drape with panels of soft fabric folds, which create a scallop effect. Festoons are usually left stationary, and are used for privacy or to hide an unappealing view.

Austrian curtains are gathered at the top for fullness and can be drawn by cords which rouch (ROO-SH) the fabric similar to the festoon. They are horizontal and allow you to control the light from the bottom of the window.

Cafe curtains are a short, sometimes un-gathered, usually suspended over the lower half of the window to provide privacy. Cafe curtains can be layered to create a unique look to the window. These are often used in kitchens and informal dining rooms.

Lace curtains can create a delicate touch for any room. They can be decorated with lacy bows, frills, and colored ribbons.

Window treatments also include valances, pelmets, and swags. A curtain retailer will be able to help you decide on the right style and choices for your window needs.

The right Fabric goes a long way

Fabrics for curtains and other window treatments come in a variety of materials such as cottons, linens, wools, and velvets, plus a range of man-made and combination fibers. If you would like to create a more traditional look, you may consider using linens, damasks, and lace, silk, satin, tapestries, or velvet. While, a more modern look can be achieved by selecting cottons and wool.

It is important to choose the right fabric as it sets the mood and style to a room. It also gives you the opportunity to co-ordinate a certain look to your home, by applying the same type of color, pattern or design to the furniture, loose covers, curtains and accessories.

Choose fabrics carefully, not just for pattern and color, but also for weight and quality, as this will affect the way the curtains hang. It is also important to consider the wear and tear of the fabric, as well as the practicality. Consider a more durable and washable material for children and pets. Check also if the fabric blocks out the sun effectively. Your curtain retailer will be able to offer you advice on fabrics, and may allow you to take home samples to ensure they match the room and furniture.

Methods to Clean and Maintain your Curtains

Before purchasing curtains and other soft furnishings, consider the amount of wear and tear they will receive. If your curtains run the risk of becoming stained, possibly by your children’s grubby hands or red wine accidents, consider treating them with a protector, or buying pre-treated fabrics. Protectors stop fabrics from being damaged, making it easier to remove marks. Choose one that is also flame retardant to help fireproof your home.

To extend the life of your furnishings, keep them clean, vacuum regularly, and remove spills quickly. Manufacturers and wholesalers are required by law to attach a care label to all soft furnishings detailing the correct cleaning procedures. If you are unsure how to remove a stain or clean your curtains, contact a curtain retailer, before you begin a cleaning procedure.

Get correct measurements before you make a purchase

It is important to measure your windows correctly before purchasing ready made or tailor made curtains. This is so that you don’t end up with ill-fitting curtains that let in sunlight, heat, and noise. Make sure you measure with a steel rule, like a tape measure, rather than cloth tapes, which can stretch. Do not use rulers and yardsticks, as they are not very precise for measuring windows.

Measure all windows. Even if you think some are similar sizes...as they rarely are identical. Take measurements for both inside and outside mounted treatments, such as pelmets, in case you change your mind later. Measure out from the first projecting item, such as a handle, if you are measuring for an inside treatment. Make a simple sketch of the placement of all windows, large pieces of furniture and doors in each room, and take this with you when visiting curtain retailers.

Make a list of the practical functions you require of each window, including views, privacy, light control, energy conservation, and noise control. If you have unusually shaped windows or are not sure, get an expert to measure your windows for you. In the case of custom-made curtains, your retailer will measure the windows for you anyway. Another idea is to take house plans with you when visiting a retailer, as they show window measurements.