Home Goods Design Decor Curtains

Which Type of Curtains Are Best for My Home?

No curtains, sheers, blinds or drapery? The world of window coverings can be overwhelming. If you break it down into types of curtains, it'll be much easier to choose the right window coverings for your needs.

Types of Curtains

Technically, a curtain is a lighter, thinner and more sheer fabric than heavier drapery. But in everyday language, you probably use the words curtain and drape interchangeably. Here's a list of types and styles of curtains:

Sheer curtains

Tab top curtains

Austrian curtains

Lace curtains

Priscilla curtains

Cafe/tiered curtains

Swags

Scarves

Valances

Balloon valances

Door panels

Curtain fabrics come in all colors, prints and designs for all rooms in the house.

Types of Drapes

Drapery, typically for more formal areas, comes in the following styles. They also have different types of pleats that make the drapery hang a certain way or look more or less formal. Other draperies block out elements:

• Ripple fold drapery
• Tailored pleat drapery
• Pinch pleat drapery
• Inverted pleat drapery
• Goblet drapery
• Grommet drapery
• Rod pocket drapery
• Cubicle drapery (good for replacement RV or boat cabin curtains)
• Thermal drapery
• Light blocking/blackout/room darkening drapery

Curtains for Various Rooms

Here's some guidance on where to hang various types of curtains (and drapes):

• Kitchen: Cafe curtains in light fabrics that can be tossed in the washer for easy cleaning are best.
• Living room and dining room: Velvet and heavier fabrics used for draperies are elegant in formal rooms. Sheers are light and lovely but won't add privacy in casual rooms.
• Bedrooms: Frilly sheers brighten up and soften up bedrooms. Room darkening curtains and drapery are best for bedrooms where the sun shines in too bright or too many outdoor lights will interrupt sleep.

Outdoor Curtains

Outdoor curtains offer privacy and style. They can also cut down on sun, wind and other elements so you can enjoy your patio, deck or porch. They're manufactured for outdoor use and are fade-and-mildew resistant, just like the fabric of outdoor seat cushions and patio umbrellas. To hang outdoor curtains, use a tension rod between walls or supports.

Curtain Lengths and Styles

Curtains (and drapes) can hang from rods that are installed anywhere from the ceiling to the top of a window frame. It depends on the look you're after. Here's a curtain size chart to guide you in determining the best look for your home:

• Sill length: Curtains that fall just a hair above the window sill are considered short and casual and bring order to the appearance of a room.
• Apron length: Curtains fall about four inches below the window sill for a crisp and casual look.
• Floor length: Curtains that graze the top of the floor (with perhaps a half inch between hem and floor) look polished, crisp and casual in any room.
• Puddling: Curtains fall to the floor and about six to 10 inches of extra fabric puddle at the floor for a dramatic look in low-traffic areas.

Always make sure that curtains at least measure double the width of the window so they hang correctly when they're drawn and when open.

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Home Goods Design Decor Curtains

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