Design Your Own Drapery

Custom Curtains

Measuring for custom curtain window treatments

Measuring your window space for custom curtains can seem like a confusing and daunting task. But in reality, it's very simple.

First - it's important to understand the difference between custom curtains and draperies. While many use these terms interchangeably, there is a definite visual difference that will help guide your window covering decisions. Custom curtains are shorter, perhaps not reaching the floor and are made of lighter materials. Often, custom curtains serve more than just a decorative purpose and are usually functional (they open and close) as well.

Unlike customized curtain solutions, draperies are often used for more decorative appeal than functional purpose. Draperies normally hang to the floor and flank custom curtains on either side. They are normally lined, and are made with heavier fabrics than custom curtains, such as velvet or heavy cotton fibers.

Second – measure your custom curtains correctly.

Custom Curtains Step 1:
Select pinch pleated or rod pocket panels.
Pinch pleated curtains are pleated across the top and are hung on a rod using pin hooks.
Rod pocket curtains are shirred onto a rod.

Custom Curtains Step 2:
Determine a pair or single panel solution.
A pair may be tied back on each side of the window.
A single panel may be drawn one way across a window.

Custom Curtains Step 3:
1. Measure the width of the area to be covered by your made-to-order curtains (include window trim when applicable).
• For both pinch pleated and rod pocket curtains, measure the area to be covered.
• To create a full look using rod pocket drapery, order a total fabric width that is equal to (or greater than) 2 1/2 times the window width.
2. Measure the length of the opening to be covered by your customized curtains.
• For both pinch pleated and rod pocket curtains, measure where you want your window coverings to fall.
• Measure from approximately 4 inches above the window opening to the windowsill (top of the sill), apron (at the base of the sill), or floor. Allow 1/2 inch for floor or windowsill clearance.

Custom curtains have an everlasting elegance perfect for any room or decorating mood. From the different fabrics, to the endless array of treatments and colors, custom curtains and draperies are the designers medium of choice for making any room a showcase.

Custom Curtain Solutions Online

Start designing your custom curtains today at DesignYourOwnDraperies.com. Choose from over 300 custom curtain fabrics!Order unlimited fabric samples and let us assist you in customizing your custom curtain order.

Made-to-Order Curtain, Bedding and Pillow Accessories

Looking to customize an entire bedding ensemble to match your customized curtain solution? Browse our site to customize everything from duvet covers to dust ruffles. Some of our accessory options include:

custom beadspreads
custom duvet covers
custom tailored dust ruffles
custom pillow shams

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