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 Drapery panels can drastically change the look of a room. They can be used in addition to blinds or shutters to add warmth, character, and color to a space. They can also be functional and block light, add privacy, or insulate drafty windows. There are several things to consider when selecting the perfect curtains for your space:
Care
Most all designer home decor fabrics used in drapery today are dry clean only. The linings used are also dry cleanable, but care should be taken to use a reputable dry cleaner who is accustomed to cleaning window treatments to avoid shrinkage or spotting (especially on silk fabrics). For the most part, curtains need only be removed from the window occasionally and lightly vacuumed or shaken to remove dust.
Light Control
Would you like to sleep later in the morning? Consider adding blackout lining to your curtains to make your room dark and cozy. Not only does blackout lining block light, but it also insulates your windows which is especially nice in bedrooms. Also, be sure to order drapes that are wide enough to cover your entire window when closed. When we pleat curtains, the top width is reduced to about 25 inches; whereas unpleated panels are a full 50" wide across the top (see our rod pocket and contemporary curtains as examples of wider width drapes).
Privacy
If privacy from neighbors is important to you, then you will also want to order curtains wide enough to cover your entire window (as noted above). Draperies can also be used in conjunction with blinds, shutters, or shades for a beautiful layered look that also provides maximum privacy.
Fabric
We offer free samples of all of our fabrics so you can be sure to get the perfect color and texture for your room. Whether you choose to go with a textured linen (informal) or a beautiful silk (formal), all of our curtains include a lining to help protect your fabric from sun damage and fading. You may also want to consider adding interlining to your drapes to make them appear fuller and more luxurious (this is especially recommended with silks). Interlining also adds a layer of insulation to your curtains to help keep cold air from entering your room. And, if you have small children and/or pets, you may want to consider selecting a fabric with stain guard protection, especially in high traffic areas.
Style
Along with your fabric choice, the style of panel you choose can greatly affect the mood your curtains will create. We offer five style options from a casual rod pocket to an elegant goblet pleat. For examples of available styles see Step 2 of our 3 Easy Steps.
Length
You are no longer constrained by the limited curtain lengths set by the retail industry. By choosing custom window treatments, you are able to order your curtains in any length you want! To help you decide what that length your drapes should be, see our handy length guide.
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