You bought new furniture for your home, redecorated the bedrooms, and put in new kitchen cabinets. But there is one element you can’t forget when it comes to your home: the curtains!
Curtains can make or break a room, so today, we are here to share our guide on how to pick the best curtains for your home. Let’s get started!
Know the Difference Between Window Treatments
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Before you begin your quest to find the right curtains, it is important to understand the difference between the various types of window treatments (drapes, curtains, shades, blinds, etc.) because this will determine the amount of sunlight your room gets. Curtains, typically made of lighter-weight fabrics, are mostly used for privacy and are best for living rooms. Drapes are made of thicker materials and, therefore, better at blocking sunlight; they are great for bedrooms. Shades and blinds are different types of window treatments altogether.
Choose the Right Fabric
The material you choose for your curtains can affect the entire look of a room. So when selecting your fabric, keep in mind the following:
- Your ambiance and decor: Sheer fabric will be a great choice if you have a more minimal room. Heavier fabrics work better in more traditional spaces.
- The amount of sunlight you want in the room.
Another thing to remember is that fabrics fall differently when hung, making them look different when drawn back or pleated.
Choose the Right Color
The color of your curtains should suit your furnishings. For a pleasing, harmonizing look, choose a color that complements your walls. On the other hand, if you want the focus to be the curtains, you can pick a shade that contrasts with your walls and furniture.
Solids or Prints?
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If the furnishings in your room are solid, you can go with either solid or printed curtains. Just keep in mind that prints will add visual weight to the room. To balance it out, you can add printed cushions or rugs. You can use floral prints in modern, traditional, and classic decor or geometric patterns in a more contemporary space.
Length, Width, and Lining
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The length of your curtains depends on your preference. If you are looking for a dramatic curtain look, then curtains that are long and puddled on the ground will be a nice option. Curtains that hang a few inches above the floor are ideal if you have kids or pets. And if you are looking for a more classical look, then curtains that end at the windowsill work very well.
To get the ideal width of your curtains, measure your window frame and multiply it by 2 or 2.5. The extra fabric will allow you to achieve that “gathered look” when you pull the curtains back.
The lining you choose for your curtains will also depend on the function of the curtains. For example, if the sun shines directly onto the curtains, a protective lining can help them be less transparent, last longer, and fade slower. Two layers of lining will give you flexibility with the amount of light or privacy you want.
How do you choose your curtains? Let us know in the comments below.