How to Find the Right Curtains for Your Home

One of the easiest ways to personalize your space is with window coverings. From a practical standpoint, curtains and drapes add an extra layer of protection against the elements and also keep the sun’s harsh UV rays from damaging your furniture.

But colors, fabrics and styles can also make a statement in your space.

Top It Off

If your goal is to add a pop of color to dress up your space, a valance might be a good place to start. Valances come in a variety of shapes and can be paired with matching curtains or a simple window shade. Valances can also hide unattractive curtain rods and window blinds hardware.

If you’re purchasing an inside-mounted valance, measure the space inside the frame and multiply by 1.5 to get some added fullness. If your valance is outside mounted, measure the width the window plus the moulding and add an additional two inches.

How Low Can You Go?

Google “how long should your curtains be” and you’ll find dozens of differing opinions. At the end of the day, it’s up to you to decide the best length for your room. Different lengths send different messages about the purpose of a space, so you should be aware of what you’re purchasing with a window treatment.

If you’re looking to evoke a more avant-garde look, consider breaking curtains. Measure the length you need to reach the floor from your rods, and buy curtains an inch or two longer so there will be a fold right above the hem. On the other hand, hovering curtains that fall less than half an inch above the floor will work best for casual, high-traffic areas.

Brushing curtains are a more traditional look. These might require the help of a professional, as exact measurements and special hardware will be needed to get the curtains to rest right on the floor. Pudding curtains leave a few extra inches of fabric at the bottom. Gauzy fabrics can make this look feel relaxed, while silk or velvet will produce a more opulent look. Either way, beware of tripping hazards.

When you’re deciding on the right curtains for your home, consider what you want to express as well as practical elements such as UV rays. Your curtains will make a statement in no time!

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