Curtains and Drapes

Curtains and drapes are fabrics designed to add decor to windows or doors, and to block out drafts and keep sound and sun outside. Window dressings are usually used to keep sunlight out, and keep the temperature at a comfortable level indoors, by keeping cold air out in the winter, and warm air out in the summer. They also obviously contribute to the privacy you feel at home. Curtains come in many different patterns, colors, sizes and materials, to fit your every decorating need.

You will want to select drapes that are easy to clean, and that won't fade after extended contact with sunlight. Some drapes are moved to the sides by hand, and some with pulls or press-buttons. Measure the sizes of your windows before you head out to select draperies.

In some homes, blinds take the place of drapes and curtains. This is often the case in apartments, where the management supplies them, in lieu of draperies. Curtains can be manufactured from fabric of varying thicknesses, each of which will have different properties of insulation and light absorption. Curtains should hang close to your windows, so that they let the least amount of air in and out, if the windows are drafty.

Sheer curtains are made from fabrics that are lightweight and translucent. They allow more light to come through the fabric, and are sometimes used along with other draperies, to let more light in when the other drapes are pulled to the sides. You can pull curtains off to the side when you want light in, with tie-backs, and you can open and close them with draw-pulls or cord pulls with a pulley system.

Fabrics that are not coated are used most in the making of curtains and drapes, and they utilize fabrics that are tightly woven, generally from a blend of polyester and cotton. Uncoated fabrics give you a certain level of insulation, since they are tightly woven, but the fabric alone will not be thick enough that it can absorb strong light. When uncoated fabric curtains are hung, you will still be able to see some light through them, so they are not effective sunlight blockers.

Coated fabric drapes are made by adding a rubber backing onto uncoated fabric drapes. These drapes absorb much more sunlight and keep it out of your home. The fabrics used in these types of curtains can have up to three times the normal backing applied, for even more dim-out properties.

The maximum in heat insulation and light absorption in curtains is provided by lined drapes. These are usually made with uncoated fabric in the front and a separate fabric, coated, behind. The liner is a simple coated fabric that doesn't have any pattern or color, as a rule.

There are various designs and types of curtains that you can use when you decorate your home. Don't stress out about hanging drapes – as long as you have the same type of curtains as the type of rod you have (or buy), hanging drapes is fairly easy.

Cheerful pink curtains can brighten any informal room in your home. They can be used in lieu of blinds to give a room warmth, color and whimsical character. Lined curtains can also insulate windows with drafts, control sound, add privacy and block light. You'll want to keep several things in mind when you are shopping for drapes for your home.

If you are looking for pale magenta curtains in a fabric that is not sheer, look for panels that have a quality lining. You won't pay much more for them, and they will be more than worth the extra money. Lining is an excellent way to protect your fabric curtains from the sun. It keeps them from fading, and protects your investment. It also adds a uniform, classy look to your house's exterior.

If you would like to sleep a bit later in the morning, lined drapes will will help keep your room darker and cozier. The lining helps to block out excess light, and that is a nice plus, especially for bedrooms. Make sure when you order that the drapes will cover the entire windows when they are closed. When you pleat curtains, the width at the top of every panel will be reduced to 25 inches or so. Un-pleated panels will remain 50 inches across.

Interlining is also available for drapery panels. Generally, interlining is a flannel type fabric that is sewn between the lining and the fabric of your curtains, and this adds weight and fullness to fabrics that might otherwise look thin. It adds insulation and a luxurious feel to your pink curtains. The interlining works especially well with silk fabric drapes.

You can purchase curtains made in many different fabrics, from the softest velvet to the roughest burlap. The fabric you choose for your new curtains depends on what type of mood you will be conveying. Also, you won't want to select delicate fabrics for use in areas with a lot of traffic. You can find quite a few curtains with stain guard protection that will protect them from your busy family and their everyday mishaps. These types of drapes are usually made from polyester, cotton or a blend of both.

If you order custom draperies on the Internet or from a designer, make sure they give or send you a sample of the fabric to look at first. Check and see how the fabric looks on the wall where your drapes will be. Get a good feel for how it will look before you spend a lot of money on drapes.

Panel styles can also affect the mood that your draperies will create. You can select from different styles, like grommeted panels, goblet pleats and rod pockets. Leaf through interior design magazines to see what styles appeal the most to you.

Check your drapery hardware, too. If you have drapery rods already in place, you can use them for measurements, from the ring base to the floor. If there is no rod up there now, remember that if you mount your rods higher, it will make your ceilings and windows look higher, too. Make sure that your pink curtains will be a perfect fit when you bring them home.

A door curtain plays a major role in keeping drafts out of your home, and in adding extra insulation. Whether you're talking about the back door, a patio door or the main entrance, door curtains will help you keep the cold out and the heat in, and in this way it can reduce your heating costs. Similarly, in warmer climates, door curtains can help keep your house cool, and shut out excess sunlight that might otherwise heat your rooms up.

As a rule, people use one curtain, not a pair, for a single door. Pole eyelets are an excellent option that will offer you a design that takes up less space, since the curtain will be less full. When you hang your door curtains, set the rod and hardware up so that the curtains will pull toward the hinge when you open them, so that opening and closing the door will be unimpeded.

A thermal lining will help to keep even more drafts from your house, whether the weather is very hot or very cold. A bump lining will help increase the amount of insulation the curtains will provide, by trapping a layer of air inside the curtains.

Most fabric curtains can be purchased as single curtains, which are the best for door curtains. Cotton velvet is a popular fabric for these curtains. Cold air generally stays closer to the ground, so you might want to measure your doors and let the drapery fabric rub at floor level, to act as an extra draft blocker.

A fully-lined door curtain can be bought in a stock size or made to measure for your own doors. The various types of curtains used for doors include pencil pleat, tabtop and designer curtains, roman blinds, valances, and door, eyelet and blackout curtains.

Door curtains serve an extra purpose, in adding elegance to a room and controlling the amount of light directed into your home. Door curtains are available in modern designs and French door curtains are made in newer styles, and designs that more aptly suit the window panels on your doors. Door curtains are now being more often made with new designs, patterns and styles.

Before you buy door curtains, make sure you accurately measure the door to be dressed. If you are shopping for French door curtains, some of the styles include sheer fabric door panels, soft stripe door panels, white sheer door panels and solid color door panels. You can go online before you head out to make your purchase, to compare various styles and prices. Prices will vary, according to style and fabric. Curtains should go well with your room's decor, and they should give your interior an elegant look.

If you are putting drapes on a French door, you should coordinate them with the curtains on any French windows in the room, so that they accent each other. They should be rich in color and gorgeous to the eye. A door with fancy curtains gives a finishing look to your room, and pleases the eye. The designs available for a French door curtain reflect the colors and hues of the countryside of France, and bring those warm colors into your home.

You can make a design statement with red curtains in your home. They have a practical side, too. Window coverings can lower your cooling and heating bills, give you privacy and block harmful rays from the sun – even the sheerest draperies will give your furniture some insurance against fading. Window coverings include lots of different types of louvers, shades, blinds, curtains and drapery panels. They come in many styles, colors and fabrics.

Whether your home has a modern design or a more vintage look, curtains can add to the feel of warmth. They can fit nearly any sizes and shapes of windows or doors, and they can be modified in many ways, to suit your personal style and taste. Curtains add to the appeal of a room, and they keep the direct sunlight out of your house during long hot days. They give you privacy as well, both night and day.

If you are doing remodeling in your kitchen, or exploring new colors you might like to use there, make sure that you have your other decorating decisions made before you select drapes. Curtains should complement your room, rather than becoming a focal point. Select the right styles for your room's design, and be sure that your budget allows for the curtains you are looking at. Curtains can be either very cheap or very expensive, or anywhere in between, depending on brand name, style and fabric.

Some of the materials used in red curtains include chenille, polyester, silk and cotton. Country curtains generally have a bottom piece and a top valance. If you are seeking an elegant style, you might select lace drapes or silk curtains. Sheers can be used with a shade beneath them, for privacy when you want it.

The materials of your curtains should be made to be fade resistant if they will be exposed to direct sunlight. The amount of sunlight each room gets will depend on what direction your house faces, and whether you have trees and shrubbery around your windows.

Curtains should be easily tied up or pulled back in rooms like your kitchen, when you want fresh air or sunlight in, or when you want to watch the kids playing in the yard. They should be cheerful and bright, and should fit in with the other patterns and colors in your kitchen. Take into account the colors in your countertops, kitchen flooring and tablecloths before you buy drapes. When you browse through catalogs for stores or e-stores, make sure you are looking at patterns that are suited for your room.

You can purchase curtain rods that will allow you to hang draperies in places you wouldn't have expected. Kitchen metal doors are an excellent place to show off your style. You can place drapery panels on a door by hanging them straight or by sweeping them off to the sides and tying them back. You can hang valances on a curtain rod as a full-length curtain or as cafe curtains. These can really brighten up your kitchen. Shopping for red curtains is an enjoyable experience when you decide on the style you want, and they will brighten your room for years to come.

Curtain tie backs can be as decorative as they are functional. There are many designs from which to choose, and finding one that goes well with your decor should not be hard, unless there are so many you like that you have a hard time choosing. The main purpose of tie backs is to increase the amount of sunlight coming into a room, by giving you a place to pull your curtain panels back.

Glass tie backs are an elegant and simple way to add style to a room, and they will give you an opportunity to bring unique colors, patterns and designs into the theme of your room. Glass tie backs with pressed patterns were popular in the mid-1800's, and were used to brighten up homes weary from war. Now you can find various designs and tinted glass, to add welcome detail to the plain designs of windows and drapes. Tie backs may have been used more frequently in earlier years, but they are still a good choice today, because they have decorative and functional purposes.

Drapery tie backs are very useful, for holding curtains back and away from your windows to let light in, and also to tie in common decorating themes from the room to the windows. Glass tie backs are a unique touch, when you also have used other glass hardware in the room, such as door knobs or lighting fixtures. The glass can be purchased in many different colors, sizes and designs, in order to accommodate any needs you have with individual windows. If your drapes are heavy, you will want to use larger curtain tie backs, so that the extra weight will be accommodated for. Lighter types of curtains like sheers can be pulled back and held by smaller and lighter weight tie backs.

Crystal and glass tie backs are still manufactured today, and many of them show off the same kinds of pressed designs that they wore in the 1800's. Tie backs can be an effective final decorative touch to a room that is already well-accessorized. A tie back can completely change the look of a window, to make even boring treatments more beautiful.

Larger drapery panels will need heavier tie backs appropriate for that extra weight. You can also use glass lighting fixtures and door knobs to replace worn and older sets, to update the look of the room. Using these along with glass tie backs will create continuity in your design. Check with an interior designer for input or browse home decorating magazines for fresh ideas.

You can find various tie backs in many home improvement stores, as well as in decorating store catalogs and stores online. You can compare the look and cost of many different kinds of tie backs online, to save you time spent going from store to store locally. Be sure to purchase curtain tie backs that will both hold your drapes effectively, and add style to your room, at the same time.

You can have a lot of fun selecting nursery drapes for your new arrival's special room. Window treatments can give your baby's nursery a comforting and warm feel, and that will be just what you're looking for. Choosing nursery drapes can be exciting for the mother and father-to-be, as you set up the color scheme and the theme for your nursery. It may be easier if you just stay with a few colors, if you're having trouble deciding.

You can pick the usual blue for boys and pink for girls in your selection of nursery furniture and draperies. Or you can build around any pastel color that you like. Bright colors are really not the best until your baby is a bit older. You want the feel of the nursery to be warm and nurturing. Friendly colors will make your nursery welcoming.

You can also go for the ultimate clean look and choose white as the color for your sheer drapes and accessories. Ribbons can be added for a touch of color, in pink or blue, or whatever other pastel color you like. Add accessories to your bright and clean nursery with white bedding and even white changing table and dresser, if you want to carry the color scheme that far.

You can create affordable nursery drapes with things that you received at baby showers. Receiving blankets make soft and warm curtains for smaller windows. You can hang them so that you get a bit of sunlight peeking through between the blankets, to make the room cheerier.

You can make clever tie-backs for your nursery curtains by using baby rattles or wooden blocks. String them together and use them to tie your curtains back in the daytime, to let the comforting sunlight in.

You can purchase nursery drapes that are ready-made and planned for use in a nursery, if you don't have the inclination to work on your own theme. If you want the drapes to look a bit different than the bedding, you can select fabrics with the same colors dominant, so that they complement each other.

Simple sheer fabric drapes can be transformed into nursery accessories by embroidering the alphabet on your drapes, using three or four different colors of thread. This theme can be made into a monochromatic look by using matching threads instead of various colors. You can also cut gingham circles from vintage fabric and attach them on the front of white sheers, for a simple and cheerful look.

You probably won't want really fancy styled curtains for your baby's nursery. The curtains can match or contrast with the other accessories, but usually, new parents match up most of the furnishings in the nursery. If you already have a little girl and your new child will be a girl as well, you can play into the girl-y theme if you'll be using one bedroom for both of them.

Make sure that your drapery choices will keep out sunlight when needed, like when your baby is taking an afternoon nap, or sleeping late into the morning. Thicker drapes will also stop drafts from making the room chilly for your little one. Choose high quality nursery curtains that will last as long as your new baby is little.

Kitchen curtains play a big role when it comes to any kitchen. Besides the functionality of curtains, they will add to your kitchen decor. Your best option for finding just the right curtain for your kitchen will probably have to be done online. You will find the best selections but with so many to choose from, how do you know which is best for you? Here is a list of important considerations before choosing your kitchen curtains.

1. Fabric. Curtains are made out of many different fabrics. The thickness of the fabric is something to consider. If privacy is of no concern, then a lace, voile or fine net curtain may do. A thicker curtain made out of cotton or linen/hemp is another choice that can be made. Cotton is the most popular fabric that people choose for their curtains because of the fact that they are easy to care for. The care of the fabric is something to consider when choosing your curtains.

2. Color. What is the color theme of your kitchen? This can be determined by the color of the tile your kitchen has. Neutral colored tiles are usually a warm or cool color and you will want your curtains to stay along those lines. A neutral, cool color would be a color such as silver, black, white and gray. A neutral, warm color would be a color such as cream, beige or terracotta.

3. Design. There are many designs and patterns available in the fabrics that can be used for kitchen curtains. There are striped patterns as well as floral. What about considering a  novelty pattern or the abstract pattern? There are so many to choose from, but keep in mind what look you are trying to achieve when it comes to your kitchen. Are you going for a country feel or how about a retro feel? Contemporary and city apartment themes in colors that are monochrome or colorful are themes that you will have to make sure your curtains fit in with.

4. Type of Curtain. Kitchen curtains come in many types from a cafe type curtain to a full length curtain. They have different types of tiebacks, valances and headings. A country theme can be played up with a frilly curtain that has a valance but a contemporary theme needs a simpler curtain with less frills. Remember, a frilly curtain may be harder to care for and rehanging more difficult than a simple curtain. Be sure to look at samples on an online site to get a feel of what a certain type of curtain can give your kitchen.

5. Price. How much can you afford to pay for curtains? Are they quality curtains and does the price reflect that?

6. Maintenance. Kitchen curtains should be the most washed curtains in your home, for obvious reasons. Are the curtains you are choosing washable? You may want a curtain that can be easily washed in a washing machine but if you have the time, you can choose a fine fabric that  will need hand washing. Keep  in mind that an allowance for shrinking should be factored in when taking measurements for the curtains.

7. Decorative or Functional. Are you wanting to use the curtains to add to the d?cor of your kitchen or will they be functional? Meaning, will they be opened and closed? This is something that you will need to take into consideration when choosing the size and type of curtain. You may be able to choose a fabric more expensive if you do not need as much.

8. Right Size. In the informal setting of a kitchen, a shorter length curtain would be more practical. This is because they will be in areas of food preparation. The right sized curtain is very important when picking out your curtains for your kitchen windows.

Here's a tip for increasing the sunlight you want in you kitchen. You can extend the curtain rods a little farther than the actual window so when the curtains are drawn, more light is able to shine through.

9. Safety. Fabric is flammable so be sure that your curtains have no chance of catching on fire. Consider roman or rollers blinds if the window is near a stove or cooker.

10. Ready-made or Custom. Standard sized curtains are usually cheaper and are ready made. Online stores will offer to custom make your kitchen curtains if you do not have standard windows.

Before buying any type of kitchen curtains, be absolutely sure of the measurements of the windows and of the curtains. Whether you want to buy ready made curtains or whether you want custom made curtains, the cost of the curtains will be a deciding factor and the measurements of the curtains will determine the cost. There are 2 measurements that you will need to know when buying curtains. The length and width of  your window and the desired length and width of your curtains. Make sure that if you choose the custom made route, the makers are understand exactly the measurements you require.

Step by Step Measuring Guide

1. Decide on The Type of Curtains. Depending on the type of curtain you want , the measurements will greatly differ. Of course, the size of the window will determine part of the measurements but there are cafe curtains, floor length curtains and tab top curtains to choose from.

2. Decide on the Position of the Curtain Rod, Rail or Pole. A curtain rod or pole is usually placed about 6 inches above any window you are hanging curtains for. If you choose to use a pelmet or valance, you will want to place a double rail a little bit higher. This is to ensure that the maximum amount of sunlight comes through but be sure to keep everything in proportion.

3. Size of Rod, Rail or Pole. Normally, two to three inches is the amount that you need the curtain rods to extend past the sides of the window. This decision is entirely up to you and an inch or two farther past that is fine also. This will allow the maximum amount of sunlight in through the window. Always keep everything in balance  as far as curtain rod placement

4. Length of Curtains. A normal curtain for a kitchen window will usually end two to three inches below the window sill. If this is the desired end measurement for you. The length of the curtain will be measured from the curtain rod to the end length. Consider the extra amount needed for a heading also.

5. Width of Curtains. The width of the window will determine the width of two curtains that will be used to cover the window. You will need two equally measured curtains to cover the window entirely. Meaning one curtain should cover the window by itself, hence the measurements of a pair of curtains will be doubled to the width size of the window.

6. Two Important Measurements. So basically, before purchasing any curtains, you will need to know two things, the length and width of your window or curtains. Take into consideration where you will be placing the curtain rod, will you have a heading and how far down do you want the curtain to go past the window sill. How far past the sides do you want the curtain to extend and is the curtain going to be functional? Will they stay closed or will they be opened and closed on a daily basis? Cafe curtains are normally sold in a standard length so adjusting the position of the curtain rod would be how you would adjust the length of the curtain. Of course when you purchase custom made curtains, you can choose any size you want.

Have you had enough of window curtains that are a blast from the past? Modern curtains, that reflect the styles of today, may be the curtains your home needs to give it a more up to date style. With all the new and exciting styles that are offered today, modern curtains are making the home you grew up in, into the home that resembles you, fresh and modern. Take a look at what makes these modern curtains so trendy.

New Materials. There is a way that you can tell whether a curtain is an older style or a newer style. The material it is made from is how you can tell. Modern window curtains are made from newer blends like a polyester rayon or even silk. Velvet and damask are fabric that modern curtains can be found in also. These materials will add the modern touch to any room.

New Bold Colors. It's all about color, color and more color. The colors of today are bolder and brighter and add flare to any modern curtain. Choosing a solid color of today, is a great way to brighten up every room of your home. Classic colors like white, brown and cream are still considered to be modern also. Incorporating solid colored curtains, into your theme, is a great tip when trying to create a less busy and more modern room.

New Styles. The new styles of window curtains come in different materials and colors but the actual style of the curtain can make it modern. Many people are turning to hanging window toppers and not the actual curtain, that covers the whole window. Window toppers like swags and valances look great when they are the only thing decorating the window. Longer windows will be accentuated by a panel curtain on each side of the window and not actually covering the window. This is a great new modern idea that lets the light shine in and puts a new touch on the window itself.

New Prices. Modern curtains can cost a bit more than the curtains of yesterday. Actually, they can be pretty expensive because of the material or style. As we all know, being trendy can cost some money and at times it is more money than you can afford. All is not lost though, because you can find beautiful modern curtains at prices you can afford if you search for them. It will take work on your part to find inexpensive curtains that suite your needs. If you have the skill, you can always make your own trendy curtains. You will probably save a lot of money if you go this route.

With the new styles and trends of today, any home can be made to look modern. This is the look that more and more people are going for, especially the younger generation. The bright colors and hanging techniques make it easy to accomplish the modern look. Don't fear that your home will be caught up in a time warp, because you have everything available to make your home a eye pleasing home of today.

Finding kitchen curtains at your local retail outlets is possible. You can find them at some retail stores at a discount, but in most cases, you will have to find an expensive home furnishing store or department store to look through a small assortment of window treatments.

Finding the best deals and selections these days requires shopping online. This is the case for most everything you shop for. Shopping online has it's great advantages such as saving gas and time. There is no need for several trips to the local retail outlet to compare styles and prices. With the rising cost of fuel these days, shopping online just makes good common sense.

The large assortment of curtains you can find online is amazing. There are so many styles and designs let alone the different fabrics you can choose from. Colors, patterns and prints are so abundant that you will have the best time choosing the perfect curtain for your kitchen.

If you are unsure on how to select kitchen curtains, read the section on How to Choose Kitchen Curtains, first and then continue on with the following guide.

1. Set a Budget. Always have a budget and stick to ensure that you do not spend more than you can afford. Look around on a few online sites to get an idea of what range of prices you will be looking at, if you have no idea what curtains cost today.

2. Browse and Book mark. Make a short list of curtains you like as you are browsing internet sites. Be sure to bookmark or add the site to your favorites so you can get back to them easily and quickly.

3. Compare Prices, Quality and Suitability. Take your short list and compare it to this check list.

• Does the color and design fit your kitchen's theme?
• Are the curtains within your budget? Did you figure in the tax and possible shipping charge? Is the curtain you priced the right size for your window?
• For the price, does the fabric quality reflect it?
• Do you need to have alterations done or do they have the exact size you need?
• Will alterations affect your budget?
• Do the curtain need dry cleaning, which will lead to more cost over the years or can they be machine washed?
• Are the curtains available and in stock?
• Do accessories that match the curtains come with them or are they available to purchase?
• How quick is delivery from the company?
• Can you return the product if you are not satisfied with them?
• Do you know the company? If not, that's alright. It just makes it easier to deal with a company you already know.

4. Choose Your Kitchen Window Curtains. Make your best choice and place your order for your perfect kitchen curtains. After that, sit back and relax and wait for delivery on the items that will make or break your magnificent kitchen!