Curtains/Drapes how to do it correctly?

6 years ago

I can't get a really get a good picture of this window but I am hoping some one can help. I don't know the correct terminology for window coverings but I would like the top of the drapes to be more substantial. Do I need to get drapes with those metal hook things to beef them up? Also don't those type of drapes need to have pleats in them for the hooks to slide into? Do people even use hooks anymore?

I want to get a white or off-white drape that is not fussy or formal but that has a bit more presence. What am I looking for and where do I find it - Pottery Barn??

Featured Answer

User

6 years ago

Drapes that have pleats are called pinch-pleated and you insert the hook into each of the pleats. You then can use a draw-drape rod which comes with the small clips that each hook fits into. So then you an open and close the drapes using the attached pulls. Or you can use a rod that has circular clips and you open and close the drapes by hand. I have always bought JC Penny drapes and rods, and have always been very happy with the price and quality. If you have a store near you, stop in and someone can show you how these rods work.

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Comments (13)

homechef59
6 years ago
They are called valences. There are many different styles.

From the picture it appears that this is not a tall ceiling. Putting a valence across the top will make the ceiling look even lower. IMO, stacking curtains on each side with no valence is the best solution to covering the window. Your other option is to install blinds.

JC Penny has some very nice, neutral lined drapes that are stackable at good prices.
Rory (Zone 6b) thanked homechef59
PRO
4Heidesign
6 years ago
I agree with everything that homechef proposes. I’ve ordered drapes from Pottery Barn, and found them no better, but much more expensive, than JC Penny. Another option would be to look at Etsy, and see what they offer.
Rory (Zone 6b) thanked 4Heidesign
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F&P Interiors
6 years ago
Hi Rory,

If your after ready made curtains, then you need to look for a double or triple pleat heading. They will come with or without hooks placed on a tape sewn onto the back of the curtain.

This will make the heading more substantial as you requested. You will also need rings for the pole to attatch the hooks into.

We are based in the UK so I apologiese if the terms are different.

Best wishes,

Rose

Fabric and Papers
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User
6 years ago
Jcp and a lot of people like IKEA curtains. The IKEA pair that I have are very well made in material and quality of sewing.
Rory (Zone 6b) thanked User
arcy_gw
6 years ago
I too think you would be happiest with the more formal pinch pleats and traverse rod in a lovely dinning room. What is there now appears to be for sheers which would never open or close just hang behind more substantial drapery. Blinds are a thing right now but they are more casual and cheapen the look IMHO.
Rory (Zone 6b) thanked arcy_gw
Rory (Zone 6b)
Original Author
6 years ago
Yes, I think I need pinch pleated drapes. I don't plan to close the drapes as I don't need privacy. Do I need a special rod for pinch pleats?

I don't have drapes in any other windows (only cellular shades in the bedrooms), the rest of the windows in the kitchen and living areas don't have any window treatments so I am unschooled in curtains.
decoenthusiaste
6 years ago
If you don't plan to close them you'll be right in style, as this chart shows. Leave most of the window exposed and flanked by drapes covering more wall than window. Valances are a bit dated right now. After the illustration below is a link to images of drapery styles.

https://www.google.com/search?q=drapery+styles&tbm=isch&source=univ&client=firefox-b-1-d&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwio9p731-vhAhVO-qwKHc8nDYAQsAR6BAgKEAE&biw=1600&bih=786
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User
6 years ago
You can also use a "decorator" pole and buy drapes that have grommets already sewn into them. So if you keep them open, they will naturally fall into folds on either side of the window The grommets allows you to hang the drapes directly without hooks.
Rory (Zone 6b) thanked User
decoenthusiaste
6 years ago
Grommets seem a little to industrial looking for some rooms. You decide.
houssaon
6 years ago
You can also have curtains with a self valence. They are a more formal.
Room · More Info

Private Residence · More Info

This is a faux valence - just a different color.
Living Room Draperies · More Info

Self valence with tabs.
Anthem Ranch - Broomfield, CO · More Info
Rory (Zone 6b) thanked houssaon
Rory (Zone 6b)
Original Author
6 years ago
I never knew drapes would be so complicated. I guess this is why it's good to get them professionally installed.
User
6 years ago
Take your photo to Penney’s. Ask them about the punch pleated drapery. Tell them what rod you have now. They will help you order what you need AND install them for you.
Rory (Zone 6b) thanked User