Drapery, Curtains, Window Panels, Roman Shades, Roller Shades, Cellular Shades, and Valances and Cornices, and on and on and on….. We get so many questions about window treatments, how? Why? Where? We hear time and time again, people are scared, nervous, to do draperies and window treatments and, maybe, rightfully so.

There is a lot of knowledge and trade know-how that goes on in the making of custom window treatments. We’ve rounded up some our best practices regarding window treatments so that you’ll feel more confident in your design decisions. BUT, if you still can’t seem to figure it out, send us a picture of the windows you’re stuck on, and we’ll give our best suggestions!

1. Less is more. Simple is best.

   Do not do swag. Goblet pleats are overkill. Hardware should be thin and inconspicuous, it is not the star of the show! Drapery is about layers, and giving a room a certain ‘je ne sais quois.’ It is not about being overdone.

2. Simple, not boring.

   Right, I just said simple is best, and it is! Simple construction, clean pleats, are key. However, doing a solid linen drape, isn’t very impactful. Window treatments can be hugely influential in the design and style of any room, they allow us to give personality to a space in an un-obtrusive way. (anyone else’s spouse complaining about the number of pillows on the couch/bed/chairs?) Pattern is our friend, color is our friend. Do not be afraid.

3. Never do single width. Ever.

   1.5 width at a minimum for drapes. Always.

4. Hang em’ high, hang em’ wide.

   Just like a great haircut can frame your face, drapes should act the same way to your space. Don’t let drapery crowd your window. Make your room feel taller, bigger, by giving your window casement a little bit of breathing room.

5. Go Long.

   Drapery panels need to go all the way to the floor. I’ve yet to meet a window that only needs 84” of length.

6. Just for looks.

   Drapery doesn’t have to function, but it can! Same goes for roman shades.

7. Watch your pattern placement.

   If doing a pleated drape, failure to do so could leave you with patternless drapes. You’ll spend a fair amount on custom window treatments, and you’ll want to be able to see your amazing fabric pattern.

8. Keep it light.

   Avoid heavy lining. There aren’t that many reasons to do heavy lining, so keep it light. Exceptions: blackout lining (keep these to bedrooms) and insulating (mostly historic homes.)

Send us your photos!

If you’ve got a perplexing or challenging window in need of a treatment, send us a photo and we’ll send you our best recommendation!