Are you looking for new curtains to refresh your rooms? Do you want to find the perfect fit, style, and color for your windows? If so, you might be wondering how to know what curtains to buy without wasting time and money. Well, you’re in luck, because we have the answers for you!
How to know what curtains to buy depends on four main factors: the size of your windows, the type of curtains you want, the material and lining of the curtains, and the accessories and hardware you need.
In this blog post, we’ll show you how to know what curtains to buy for different types of windows, such as single windows, double windows, bay windows, and more. We’ll also give you some tips and tricks to make the process easier and more fun. So grab your tape measure, pencil, and paper, and let’s get started!
How to Measure Your Windows for Curtains
The first step to buying curtains is measuring your windows correctly. This will help you determine the size and length of your curtains, as well as the number and placement of your curtain rods and brackets. Here are the steps to measure your windows for curtains:
- Measure the width of your window from one end of the frame to the other. Add about 6 inches (15 cm) to this measurement to allow for some overlap and fullness in your curtains.
- Measure the length of your window from the top of the frame to where you want your curtains to end. Add about 4 inches (10 cm) to this measurement to allow for some clearance and hemming in your curtains.
- Measure the height of your curtain rod from the floor to where it is mounted on the wall. Subtract this measurement from the length measurement you got in the previous step. This will give you the final length of your curtains.
How to Choose Your Curtain Type
The next step to buying curtains is choosing your curtain type. This will help you determine the style and look of your curtains, as well as the amount of light and privacy you want in your room. There are many types of curtains available, such as:
- Eyelet curtains: These have metal rings at the top that slide over a curtain rod. They are easy to hang and create a modern and elegant look for your windows.
- Pencil pleat curtains: These have folds gathered closely together to resemble a row of pencils laid side by side. They are versatile and suit any room or window.
- Pinch pleat curtains: These have decorative pleats sewn into the top of the curtain that create a tailored and luxurious look for your windows.
- Tab top curtains: These have loops of fabric at the top that hang from a curtain rod. They are casual and cozy and work well with light fabrics.
- Grommet curtains: These are similar to eyelet curtains, except they have larger metal rings that create bigger folds in the fabric. They are also easy to hang and create a casual and cozy look for your windows.
How to Choose Your Curtain Material and Lining
The next step to buying curtains is choosing your curtain material and lining. This will help you determine the quality and durability of your curtains, as well as their insulation and light-blocking properties. There are many materials and linings available, such as:
- Cotton: This is a natural fabric that is breathable and easy to care for. It comes in various weights and colors and can suit any room or style.
- Linen: This is another natural fabric that is durable and breathable. It has a rustic and textured appearance that adds character and charm to your windows.
- Silk: This is a luxurious fabric that is smooth and shiny. It drapes beautifully and creates an elegant and sophisticated look for your windows.
- Polyester: This is a synthetic fabric that is affordable and durable. It resists wrinkles and fading and can mimic various natural fabrics.
- Velvet: This is a thick fabric that is soft and plush. It blocks light and noise effectively and creates a cozy and dramatic look for your windows.
- Standard lining: This is a basic lining that protects your curtains from dust, dirt, sunlight, and moisture. It also improves the drape and appearance of your curtains.
- Blackout lining: This is a special lining that blocks out most or all of the light coming through your windows. It also insulates your room from heat, cold, and noise. It is ideal for bedrooms or media rooms where you want more privacy and darkness.
- Thermal lining: This is another special lining that insulates your room from heat, cold, and noise. It also blocks out some of the light coming through your windows. It is ideal for rooms where you want more comfort and energy efficiency.
How to Choose Your Curtain Accessories and Hardware
The final step to buying curtains is choosing your curtain accessories and hardware. This will help you complete the look and function of your curtains, as well as add some personality and flair to your windows. There are many accessories and hardware available, such as:
- Curtain rods: These are metal or wooden poles that hold your curtains in place. They come in various lengths, diameters, colors, and finishes to suit your curtains and style.
- Curtain brackets: These are metal or plastic pieces that attach to the wall and support your curtain rods. They come in various shapes, sizes, colors, and finishes to match your curtain rods and style.
- Curtain rings: These are metal or plastic rings that slide over your curtain rods and hold your curtains in place. They come in various diameters, colors, and finishes to match your curtain rods and style.
- Curtain hooks: These are metal or plastic hooks that attach to your curtains and hang from your curtain rings or rods. They come in various shapes, sizes, colors, and finishes to match your curtains and style.
- Curtain tiebacks: These are fabric or metal pieces that hold your curtains back when you want to let more light in or create a different look for your windows. They come in various shapes, sizes, colors, and finishes to match your curtains and style.
- Curtain valances: These are short pieces of fabric that cover the top part of your windows and hide your curtain rods and hardware. They come in various shapes, sizes, colors, and patterns to match your curtains and style.
FAQs
Q: How do I know what color of curtains to choose?
A: The color of your curtains depends on your personal preference and the mood and decor of your room. You can choose a color that contrasts or complements the walls and furnishings of your room, or a color that creates a focal point or a statement for your windows. You can also choose a color that reflects the season or the occasion, such as warm colors for autumn or festive colors for Christmas.
Q: How do I know what pattern of curtains to choose?
A: The pattern of your curtains depends on your personal preference and the style and theme of your room. You can choose a pattern that matches or coordinates with the other patterns in your room, or a pattern that adds some interest and variety to your windows. You can also choose a pattern that reflects your personality or hobbies, such as floral patterns for nature lovers or geometric patterns for modern enthusiasts.
Q: How do I know what size of curtains to buy?
A: The size of your curtains depends on the size of your windows and the length of your curtain rods. You can measure your windows and curtain rods using a tape measure, a pencil, and a paper, as explained in the first section of this blog post. You can also refer to the size charts provided by the curtain manufacturers or sellers to find the best fit for your windows.
Final Thoughts
We hope this blog post has helped you learn how to know what curtains to buy for different types of windows. Whether you want eyelet, pencil pleat, pinch pleat, tab top, or grommet curtains, you can find them easily with some simple tools and techniques. Remember to measure your windows, choose your curtain type, material, lining, accessories, and hardware!
If you enjoyed this post, please share it with your friends and family who might also be interested in learning how to know what curtains to buy. And don’t forget to check out our other posts on home decor and lifestyle topics at Huetifulhomes.com!
Dale is the colorful mind behind HuetifulHomes.com, where he shows you how to create a home that is as fun and fabulous as you are. He has a passion for color and a knack for DIY, with years of interior design experience he shares his tips and tricks on how to create a home that reflects your personality and style. He believes that color is the key to happiness, and he wants to help you make your home more Huetiful.
