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This feature is aimed at those of you thinking of making your
very first pair of curtains. However, if you already have some experience
but are keen improve your curtain making skills and progress onto
something a bit more elaborate, then read on!
Consider your design options
You probably already have some idea of the style of curtains you
would like to make. Before you make a firm decision though, take
the time to look through your favourite homestyle magazine or visit
a few ‘show homes’, as these are sure to give you some
new and inspirational ideas. Remember that you should always consider
each room in the context of your home as a whole, so with this in
mind, begin by asking yourself the following questions:
In which room is the window located?
Consider this question bearing in mind both the type of atmosphere
you would like to create and the function of the room. Drawing rooms
are usually more formal, whilst sitting rooms are more relaxed and
functional. Dining rooms can be dramatic and yet bedrooms can take
a softer more feminine look. On the other hand, a window in a study
can be very effective if given a more masculine, tailored look.
What size of window are you tackling?
It is important to take into account not only the function and style
of the room but also the size of the window. Getting the scale of
the window dressing right will help to guarantee success. See our
top tips below:
When making a valance or stiff pelmet to hang above a pair of curtains,
a sixth of the overall curtain drop is the ideal proportion.
If you are dealing with a small window, curtains may not be the best
option. You may wish to consider a lambrequin teamed with a roman
or roller blind.
Remember that lambrequins are only suitable for small windows (usually
involving only one width of fabric), and they are most effective
when the height of the window is greater than the width.
In which direction does the window face?
Always consider the position of the sun. South facing rooms get the
sun all day and some fabrics will fade over time if exposed to strong
sunlight. It is best to steer clear of using silk fabrics in very
sunny rooms. North facing rooms are generally dark and can feel cold
as they get little sun. In this case, a brighter colour scheme may
be the answer. However, bare in mind that sometimes it is better
to enhance what you already have, rather than to try to change it
drastically!
What about colour and pattern?
Colour is really important as it affects our mood, so give some thought
to the look and feel that you would like to create.
Beware of using a strong, plain, dark colour for your curtains next
to a light coloured wall, as this can often create too strong a statement.
If you are set on a darker tone, but would like to reduce the impact,
then why not select a contrasting border or trim that co-ordinates
with the wall colour, or choose a fabric that combines the darker
colour with a lighter shade.
It is also a good idea to avoid using large patterns on small windows
in small rooms, as the scale can be overpowering.
Small patterns or self patterned fabrics work extremely well in smaller
rooms, as do checks and stripes.
Are there any problems you might encounter with the position and
design of the window?
Is there a radiator underneath the window sill? If so, is there a
reasonable gap between the bottom of the window and the top of the
radiator? Some modern fabrics are very unstable if positioned near
radiators and will react adversely to heat. Such fabrics can become
distorted or shrink. In this case think carefully before putting
long curtains that will frequently be drawn over windows with radiators
underneath them. Dress curtains and a blind may be a much better
option.
How do I go about visualising my curtain design?
A handy tip is to sketch out your window treatment to scale on a
piece of graph paper. This will help ensure that you have the correct
proportions and is particularly useful when planning a valance or
pelmet to complement your curtains.
If you are looking for more design ideas we will soon be adding a
new section to our Design Index focusing on understanding window
dressing designs. In the meantime, don't forget to check out a range
of different homestyle and interior design magazines for inspiration.
There are also a number of great interactive design tools available
online, we have highlighted a few here. Happy hunting!
Next Steps
We hope these tips will help give you the confidence to take your
curtain making project to the next stage. Firstly, you'll need to
make sure that you have all the right sewing tools and materials
including for example: a suitably large work surface, a metal ruler
and/or L-square for accurate measurement, tailor's shears for cutting
out (good quality sharp scissors are a must!), and the correct weight
of thread. We have provided a handy check list of basic sewing equipment
in our free introductory sewing guide which you can download from
SimplyFurnishings.com in just a few seconds. The guide also includes
practical instructions on how to achieve a range of basic but essential
stitches and seams that you will need when making curtains or other
soft furnishings. View and print the 30 page guide now or save it
to disc for later, it should prove an invaluable addition to your
sewing workroom!
One last tip, make sure you take your time over the preparation stage
and plan thoroughly to avoid mishaps!
Good luck!
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