990 Curtains

Curtains can be a great way to change the look of your interiors, while also helping to filter natural light into your room. If you're considering new window treatments and feel that curtains would be the best fit, brush up on the different types, styles and size requirements to ensure you make the correct purchase.

Why might curtains be the right choice for your home? In terms of window treatments, curtains offer a great marriage of style and function. If you're looking to control the amount of light in your space as well as add decorative appeal, new drapes may do just the trick. They absorb sound to create a quieter room, and are ideal for glass doors, and large adjoining windows.

What types of curtains are available? There are many styles and types of curtains, so be sure to review all your options before making a decision. Here are some of your many curtain options:
Sash: The most common modern curtains, these are unlined and designed only to filter light.
Sheer: Otherwise known as privacy curtains, sheer curtains block the view from the outside in without obstructing the view from inside out. However, they are very thin and don't block light.
Rod Pocket: Made with a casing at the top that slips over the curtain rod, rod pocket curtains often create a soft, ruffled effect and hide most of the curtain rod.
Tab top: Tab top curtains are hung with a rod that slips through flat loops spaced along the top edge of the curtain. Casual in appearance, they don't require pull cords or hardware to for opening or closing.
Ring top: Hung from decorative rings attached to the drapes at intervals across the top, ring top curtains are similar to tab-top drapes in that they don't require pull cords or hardware to open and close.
Grommet top: These curtains are outfitted with grommet rings across the top, which house the curtain rod. Grommet top curtains create a modern, pleated look when hung.
Thermal or blackout: Through extra lining and insulation, thermal curtains block significant light while protecting from heat and cold. These are ideal for privacy and saving money on electric bills.


What types of hardware might you need to consider? The hardware you choose will often complete the look of your curtains. Here are the usual options:
Curtain rods: The most common tool for hanging curtains, rods are available in many different widths to fit varying window sizes. Use rod spaces to create depth by extending the rods away from the wall. Also, remember that the curtain rod will be visible through sheer and ring-top curtains, so be sure its style matches your choice in drapes.
Finials: Finials are the decorative pieces that you find at the end of a curtain rod. These come in many styles including scrolls, leaves, fleur-de-lis and balls. They also come in different finishes, like copper and brushed silver, allowing you to completely customize the look of your window treatment.
Curtain rings: Generally decorative in nature, rings attach to the curtain rod and allow your curtains to easily open and close.
Curtain tiebacks or holdbacks: Tiebacks are usually made of loops of fabric, braided ropes or tassels, and tie curtains at the center or back to the sides. Holdbacks are made of metal and are mounted to the walls beside the windows to hold back the curtains.


How do you determine the correct size? Be sure to get the length and width right for curtains and draperies. First determine length by measuring 6-8" above your window frame (where the rod will sit) down to your desired floor length (usually about 2-3" from the floor). In terms of width, curtains should extend 2-3" on each side of your window.

Take a look at the different curtain styles here.

Find curtains design ideas here.