Draperies are amazing window treatments that can enhance the look of any room. They can also be an investment if your room has a large number of windows. Of course, there are economical ways of creating new window coverings, but you would still have to spend money on things like drapery hardware and fabric, not to mention the time you will be investing. Here is a list of drapery goofs you should avoid to make your space more welcoming and visually appealing.

Picking Out the Curtain Last

Many homeowners make the mistake of not making the window treatments a priority, thinking it’ll be easy to find ones that match with the decor. Only much later do they realize it’s not as easy as it sounds. When designing or redecorating any room in your home, it’s easy to make selecting the wall colour a priority. However, since walls paints are available in practically limitless hues it’s easier to pick out the curtain first and pull the colours for your room from the fabric pattern.

Being Cheap with the Drapery Hardware

Purchasing expensive curtain hardware might not make much sense to you since most of it will be out of sight anyway. However, there are some things you should avoid when choosing your drapery hardware.

Not using a sturdy rod that can support the weight of the treatment, resulting in the middle to sag awkwardly.
Using hardware that’s too thin for grommet If you have curtains with large grommets or tab-top panels which make a good part of the rod visible, make sure the hardware you pick out is attractive and substantial looking.
A rod which isn’t long enough can make the draperies cover most of the windows, blocking out sunlight and the view. Instead, measure your windows properly and purchase a rod that extends beyond the window treatment.

Hanging Them at the Wrong Height

Planking the drapery directly on the window frame never looks good. All but a few homes will have space above the windows which can be used for window treatments. Also, know that hanging your curtains too low can shorten the height of the room as a whole. It’s a good idea to hang the drapery hardware about 10-15 cms above the frame. If you have higher ceilings, you can definitely go higher than that as well.

The Length Being Too Short

Draperies both function and look the best when their height at least reaches the floor. The only time they should be short is if there is something directly below the window, preventing floor length ones. Short draperies can lose functionality as they can allow air to seep underneath it, resulting in heat retention. There are a few choices when it comes to the length of your window coverings.

Puddling or Pooling – In this type, the drapery’s fabric pools at the floor.
Breaking – A slight bend or fold is present just above the hem.
Hovering or Floating – A finger width of space above the floor.

Forgetting About Two-Storey Windows

If you have a home with two storey windows, you have a decision to make. You can either choose to place the rod right at the top of the window or place it between the two stories. The draperies at the top create a regal and grand effect while placing it in the middle provides a cozier atmosphere. However, you will have to plan and design from the beginning, so keep that in mind if you have two-storey windows in your home.

Not Getting Rid of Wrinkles

When you have your heart set on specific drapes, it can be tempting to put them up as soon as you receive them. However, brand new ones are bound to come with quite a few wrinkles when they’ve just been taken out of the package. It’s not logical to expect the wrinkles to magically vanish once they’re hung. Unless your treatments have an intentionally crinkled texture, steam or iron them to make them smooth. Although not a fun chore, yet it will surely make your room look neater and more presentable.

Failing to Consider the Front View

If you are installing un-pleated drapes, the outside view may be that of a sheet hanging on your window. It may also allow people to get a view of what’s happening inside your home. However, pleating will offer structure, refinement, and movement and shouldn’t be abandoned just because you’re looking to cut costs. This is why you should prepare a budget so you can take these into consideration.

Choosing the Wrong Style

Draperies are finished at the top in numerous ways that are directly related to their functionality. For instance, you wouldn’t want to choose panes that have a tight-fitting rod pocket if you want drapes that can be opened and closed. This is why it’s vital for you to consider how your drapes will operate and select a style accordingly.

Taking the Wrong Measurements

You may think you have taken all of the measurements properly, from top to bottom and from end to end. But, know that this doesn’t guarantee that your custom drapes or ready-made ones will fit your windows properly. The right way of taking measurements is leaving 4 extra inches from one side of the window or 8 inches to the precise side-to-side measurements. However, for the length, adding 4 inches is enough. The additional inches are there to ensure the drapes properly cover the windows.

Installing brand new window treatments can seem intimidating, but installing drapery hardware along with other features properly doesn’t have to be a difficult task. Hopefully, these tips will help you avoid making any costly mistakes. Neat, tailored and properly hung drapes can make your home look like it was designed by a professional and take your space from good to great.

Categories:
Curtains & Draperies