Curtains block or filter light, provide privacy and can also reduce heat and noise, all while providing a design aesthetic. They can be fun or formal, colorful or subdued.
Curtain coating differs from proximity coating with slot die technology in that the distance between the slot die exit and substrate is not determined by wet coating thickness, but rather by the web speed, impingement velocity, density and viscosity of the fluid being coated. This extra distance determines the hydrodynamic assist needed to develop a stable fluid curtain.
Length
Curtains are applied in a variety of ways depending on the style and needs of the homeowner. The length of the curtains can make a big difference in how they look.
When measuring for curtains, it is important to get accurate measurements. This is a process that requires a good metal tape measure and a ladder or stool. The right size curtains can add elegance and personality to a room, but they also need to be hung properly.
Standard lengths for curtains include 63″, 84″, 96″, and 108 inches. These are ideal for most homes and rooms, though they do not fit every window.
To determine how long you need your curtains to be, first figure out where you want them to fall. Sill-length curtains fall a little above the windowsill, while below-sill and floor-length curtains fall below the window frame.
In addition, account for the rod placement as well. If you’re using a window with a lower sill, add a few extra inches to the length of your curtains to give the rod an inch or so more space.
If you’re looking for a more formal style, puddle-length curtains are an excellent choice. These are the longest and most formal type of curtains.
These are great for living rooms, formal sitting areas, and houses with high ceilings. They are also great for bringing drama and texture to a room.
This is one of the easiest curtain styles to maintain. Since the fabric is so high above the floor, it collects less dust and debris than shorter curtains that graze the floor. However, this style does not work well in areas with heavy traffic, such as a family room or kitchen.
Width
Whether you’re hanging decorative panels at the side of your window or curtains that completely cover it when open, the width of curtain fabric is essential to the look you want. Custom-made draperies come with the appropriate fullness according to their type, but if you’re using ready-made fabrics, you can measure your window’s width and add 12 inches for each side, 24 inches total.
If you’re going for a full length that reaches the floor, you need to add 1 to 3 inches to this measurement in order to allow for a curtain rod that sits a few inches above the floor. You can also choose to hang curtains that float just below the window itself.
Aside from the width of curtain fabric, the hem on a curtain is another aspect that can affect the overall style and functionality of the product. A longer hem offers more of a formal and dressy feel, while a shorter hem implies more of a casual vibe.
As with most design decisions, the right width of curtains depends on personal preference and the style of your home. If you have a wide, long window that is short in width, you may prefer longer curtains to make the window appear larger and more spacious.
You can also use a curtain rod that extends beyond the frame of the window for a grander look. The extra space helps the window to appear larger and allows more light to enter when the curtains are open.
Height
The height of your curtain depends on many factors, including the amount of light you want to control and how much privacy you need. There are many different options to choose from, and each situation is unique.
To start, remove all furniture and window treatments from the windows and open a small portion of the window sill to allow you to measure the width of your window. This will give you a good idea of the length your curtains will need.
Ideally, your curtain rod should be about 4 to 6 inches above the top of your window frame. This allows the curtains to slightly brush the floor or hover just above it, adding drama and dimension to your window.
If you have a window with an arched or transom, consider hanging the curtains just above the larger window and leaving the transom uncovered. This allows for more light and a dramatic effect, but it can be difficult to maintain.
You can also hang your curtains a few inches below the top of your window frame. This creates a cozy vibe and will reduce the number of times you have to open and close your curtains.
A curtain can also puddle on the floor, which is a romantic, feminine look that showcases luxurious fabrics. This is a great option for traditional and formal rooms.
Regardless of which height you choose, make sure to pre-shrink your curtain panels before hanging them. This will minimize shrinkage during future washings.
Style
Curtains are a great way to enhance the look of your windows. They can be applied in a variety of ways and help add a touch of drama to any room. There are also many styles of curtains available to suit your taste and budget.
The style of your curtains depends on several factors, including the type of fabric, the size of your window, and how much light you want to let in. The color of your curtains can also play a role in how they will blend with or pop against your decor.
For example, a white fabric might make your walls appear yellow or blue, depending on the tone of your wall paint. In that case, you may want to choose a lighter or neutral color.
Another factor to consider when choosing the style of your curtains is the top hem, known as the heading. This hem defines the look of your drapes–casual or formal, feminine or sleek–and affects how easy they are to slide closed.
Pinch pleats are a popular heading style that creates fullness and a gathered look extending down the face of the panel. This header requires a bit more fabric than other headings, typically two and a half times the fullness, and works best when you have cottons or sheers that will drape well.
Tie-top curtains are similar to pinch pleats but have loops or tabs sewn in the back of the header that slip over the rod when closed. They give you a tailored look that will look great with modern and classic styles.
Other curtain styles include grommets, rings, and hooks. Each of these styles can add a unique look to your curtains and are a good option for those who don’t want to deal with pins or clips.
Fabric
The fabric of a curtain is an important element that determines how it will be applied, and also the look and feel of the finished product. The fabric can be made of a variety of materials, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The fabric used for curtains should be durable and easy to maintain.
Common types of fabrics include cotton, silk, linen, polyester, velvet and lace. Each type offers different weights, texture, light blocking or exposing qualities, durability and sun-fade resistance.
Cotton is the most popular fabric for drapery and curtains due to its softness, durability and low maintenance. It is a natural fiber and is affordable, making it an excellent choice for window treatments.
Linen is a plant fiber that is stronger and more lustrous than cotton. This fiber is a popular and trendy choice for curtains and other home decorations because it is naturally beautiful.
Velvet is an expensive piled fabric that looks luxurious and is suitable for heavyweight curtains. However, it is not as soft or breathable as cotton.
Lace is a delicate and elegant fabric that is usually used for sheers to diffuse natural light or privacy in a room. It can be very detailed and soft, but it is prone to becoming snagged or ripped.
Other types of lace are half-sheer and half-lace, which can help bring a country-chic appearance to your home without the heaviness that full lace curtains may have. It is also a good option if you are not able to have all the lace around your windows because it is sturdier and can be easily cleaned with a machine wash.
The lining of the curtain is generally chosen to match the main fabric but it can be dark colored and used as an accent. The lining should not be too thick and is typically gathered at the top to give the drape a more formal look.