8.07.2013

How to (better) Hang Drapes (and why ready-made drapes should come in longer lengths)

I have worked with several clients who were fearful that I would come into their home and fill it with fancy drapery. I assure you that I do not force window treatments on anyone and am not of fan of fussy windows.  I do; however, think that adding drapery to a window completely transforms a whole room and can be an inexpensive change for interiors needing a pick-me-up.

If you do subscribe to the drapery thing, how your drapes are hung really makes a difference. There are tons of posts out there about this -- my favorite includes this image:
http://horchata-jessieleigh.blogspot.com/2012/04/how-to-hang-curtains.html
This pretty much shows it all: a curtain hung correctly makes the window, even the room, look larger and softens the space. You will notice also that the fabric does not have to cover important natural light coming in. 

Easy enough -- BUT, if you are trying to cut down on costs and purchase ready-made drapery, most stores have 84" long drapes in stock, which are not long enough to achieve this look in most homes. This is typical for homeowners who have tried installing on their own:

Such cute shades from World Market, but the dark horizontal line across the top shortens the window and the wall.

Some stores have caught on (World Market now carries some of their drapery in 96"length in the store), but most will offer longer lengths online.  It is worth spending a few extra dollars (and maybe some shipping fees) to hang your drapes the right way. Here is the same window now:
I may be a bit partial to the cute new fabric too, but the room feels completely different now!

Hope this helps with your window dressing decisions, but if you're still wanting help, give me a call or write me an e-mail.  I love this stuff!
Ami
embellishcville@gmail.com
434.465.0738






2 comments:

  1. Is this rule still okay if you have 9-10' ceilings?? We just renovated/added to a 1919 Victorian home and I want to hang sheers in the dining/living space. It has very tall ceilings and wondered if this is still the proper way to place the drapery? Thanks!

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  2. Absolutely! Even if you don't need to create higher looking ceilings, hanging the drapes higher will fill the wall space and warm the room. Good luck with your project!

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