Some of the earliest references date back to
Egyptian and ancient Jewish uses of curtains. Exactly
when people began hanging fabric for privacy and aesthetics
is not known for sure. What is
known is that many people enjoy the look that is created by the use of finely crafted textiles.
For many, simply including a drape around their window,
communicates affluence and enjoyment of the fineries of
life.
Today, the styles of curtains vary as widely as their uses.
Common styles include pinch pleat, Euro pleat, cafe
curtains, tab top curtains, side panels, window toppers, valances, and
cornices.
Curtains are used for many purposes.
Window treatments, window
curtains, shower curtains, country curtains, kitchen
curtains, lace curtains, theater curtains, and more.
It is not uncommon to include drapery jewelry, grommets, beaded
trims, loop fringe, accent buttons, decorative rope,
decorative tie backs (also known as hold backs) in wood or
metal. These simple accents set your window treatment
apart from any other. Common household items like clothes pins or
dish rags can even be used to create a unique look for your
decor.
As well, today, with the wide array of fabrics that are
available for curtains, it is a common practice to protect
fine materials like dupioni silk, linen, and chenille, with
insulated, thermal or blackout lining. When lining of
any variety is used, these curtains are referred to as lined
drapes.
Another common practice in
interior decorating today is layering. Layering a
drape with a window shade be it a cellular shade, a wood
blind, a roman shade, a woven wood shade or even a roller
shade. Layer the blind under side panels and a valance or
cornice to
create a refined look. Spice it up a bit more with a
decorative drapery rod and finials.
Have fun by mixing and matching tab tops with accenting
valances or mixing pleated panels with an ascot valance.
Let your imagination run wild!
Three types of curtain fabrication is used today.
Ready made drapes are made in 2 to 3 standard sizes in a few
colors and several styles to fit a wide array of decors. With ready made drapes,
you can see the finished product and can select from what is available
for your situation. Ready made drapes are the least
expensive drape alternative. Next, is custom made
drapery.
Custom drapes include some
element of choice on your part, be it choice of
fabric, trims, type of lining and finishing accents like tie
backs or drapery hardware that
differentiate this drape from any other.
The most
expensive alternative in curtains is called "couture".
Taken from French meaning "sewing", couture draperies are
created by professional designers working directly with a
custom workroom to create a one-of-a-kind window treatment.
Couture drapes require professionals who are well versed in
all the complexities of fabrication from fullness, to cut of
fabric, to drop, to leading edges, to thickness of lining,
to length of hem and more. A local drapery
professional will provide the care and competence you need
if your choice is couture.
