Curtains 1O1

Do you want window treatments that wow, but need a bit of inspiration? Consider these helpful hints to spark your own creative approach.


How can I get a custom look?

There are many ways to do this without the high cost or hassle:

• Mix patterns and fabrics, as shown here.
• Paint a design on cotton panels, as shown on the opposite page.
• Create a pretty and functional tieback out of ribbon, rope, or a piece of fabric.
• Hem panels to the length of café curtains, which only cover the lower half of the window.
• Add decorative trim to the edges of panels.

For a romantic touch, this dreamy sheer (#241565) adds softness and volume to a striped panel (#213443). The two panels hang on a decorative rod (#169309) and are swept to one side with a strip of drop cloth material serving as a tieback.



How high do I hang the rod?

Consider these pointers when choosing rod height:

• Hang a rod as high as possible to make a low ceiling seem higher.
• Position a rod just above the window, as shown here, to make a room with high ceilings feel more intimate.
• Raise the eye a bit by hanging the rod halfway between the window and the ceiling.

Tab-top panels (#170175) are embellished with a leaf design using a stencil and fabric paint. The panels hang on a wooden rod (#42772) with finials (#27969*) and overlay a shade (#120398) made of sustainable bamboo.


Why would I use a cornice?

Think about how a cornice, which crowns a window and imparts horizontal dimension, could help you:

• add an architectural element to a plain wall.
• create a slightly more formal appearance.
• hide a basic rod that holds the curtains.

This playful look is perfect for a child’s bedroom. The lightweight white plastic cornice (#87589*) was first coated with plastic primer (#57601) and then painted brilliant blue (#244148) to complement a pair of striped curtains (#242109) on a wooden rod.


How can I add subtle pattern?

If you want to add interest using patterns, but you don’t want them to be overpowering, try these options:

• Choose a patterned valance or café curtain (shorter pieces of fabric instead of long panels).
• Paint a simple shade with stripes, as shown here, or any other design.
• Add a patterned ribbon for trim on a plain panel.

A Country French toile valance (#25944) tops a white roller shade (#43231) painted with black stripes.