Choosing your first curtains is a very important decision. They can have a big impact on the overall aesthetics and can make or break the space and overall vibe. With so many options on the market nowadays, so many styles, designs and materials, it can become overwhelming to choose. But if you know what to consider, it’ll be much simpler and easier.
Should You Consider Custom-Made Curtains?
Have you ever thought about getting custom curtains for your home? As such they bring many benefits to the table. One of them is personalisation and style. They can be very flexible when it comes to these two things. They will be crafted to fit your interior and space perfectly. A high-quality, well-fitted curtain made to measure can enhance the whole space without overwhelming it.
You can combine, mix and match fabrics, laces, colours and patterns. You can choose between a complete blackout curtain or a sheer one for more light and airflow. And you can even choose the hanging and moving mechanism. The best part is that these curtains will adhere to your unique taste and still be practical and beautiful.
Unlike the store-bought curtain, these will be tailored exactly to the size of your windows and doors. This means you get complete privacy and light control. If you have trouble sleeping, a blackout curtain will help you get a good night’s sleep. If you’re facing the neighbour’s yard, they can also help you get complete privacy.
A custom-fitter curtain will also be more energy efficient than the store-bought one. This is an important factor considering how hot some days in Australia can get. They will eliminate any gaps in the doors and windows and completely isolate the house from heat and cold. You will easily maintain the indoor temperature. The excellent fit of custom curtains guarantees a smooth and polished look for your windows.
They will be great if you’re moving a lot. You can easily take them with you everywhere you go. In case you decide to sell the house or rent it, the custom curtains will increase the value of your home. They’re a strategic, long-term investment that can help you make a sale faster. Plus, you can choose fabrics that are easy to clean and maintain and you won’t have to spend hours taking care of them.
What to Consider when Buying In-Store Curtains
Width & Length
These two measurements are crucial if you want to get the best-looking curtains in every room. There are a few simple steps you should follow. The first one is to measure the width of the window. Next, add 10-20cm on each side. This way you get complete coverage and fullness. Some manufacturers have online size charts with measurements you can compare with the numbers you got at home. This way you’ll be more prepared when you go to the store or order online.
Length is another important consideration. If they’re too short they can disrupt other elements in the room and make the ceiling look lower. If they’re too long, they can give the room a messy look. To get a precise measurement, measure from the rod above your window to the floor. Make sure you place the rod at the height you want it to be. With these measurements, you can get a curtain made to measure and have a well-fitted window treatment.
Colour
It’s crucial to buy a curtain that blends in with the room’s general design, especially the colour of the walls, flooring, carpets, rugs, and other soft furnishings. There’s a general rule when it comes to the curtain’s colours. If there are strong and bold colours in the room or a busy pattern, the best way to incorporate the curtains is to choose them in a neutral colour.
On the other hand, if the overall interior has neutral colours, your curtains can bring a pop of colour and brighten up the space. If you’re layering them, pick two similar colours or go for the safe option, white. You can also order custom curtains from a reliable manufacturer and they can help you make the right colour choice.
Material
There are many different types of curtain materials, ranging from soft linen to plush velvet. By determining the type of look you’re trying to get and the curtains’ practical purpose, you can choose the most suitable curtain material. If you’re looking for curtains that can block the sun and keep the light out, you should go for thicker, heavier materials, instead of lightweight and thin ones.
The cleaning and maintenance of the material is also important. On average, they should be washed every 3-6 months, but some materials need more maintenance than others. Low-maintenance fabrics like synthetics and cotton will need a wash twice a year. You can even do it by hand. They’re great for homes with kids and pets and people with dust allergies.
There are also high-maintenance curtains. They have plenty of pleats that require some dry-cleaning no matter the material. Silk, wool and velvet fall into this category. They’re a bit gentler and ask for proper care. To keep their colour and shape in place, the safest option is to give them to a professional to do it.
Hardware
Once you get the curtain style, colour, length and width, it’s time to choose the hardware. The rod is not just a simple hanger for the curtain. When chosen properly, it can add visual interest and complement the rest of the interior. There are extendable rods. This means you can easily adjust their length in case you decide to change the curtains at some point.
You can find curtain rods made of different materials and styles. They can be single, or even double if you want to add more layers and gain more visual interest and privacy. The most common materials are brass, metal, wood, iron and brushed nickel.
There’s something for everyone on the market. The final touch is the two caps at the ends of the rod that have a decorative function. They can be traditional, orate, sleek, modern, streamlined and much more.
