Recently I installed custom draperies in the dining room, and I have to say, the room feels all grown up now. I’ve always planned on removing the venetian blinds that came with the house, but with this room facing the road, having no privacy was not an option. I also just wasn’t in a rush. But if we’re being honest, I also didn’t realize how dramatic the impact would be! So all that to say, I want to show off the new drapes, but I also want to share my best practices for choosing and installing custom draperies.
Choosing the Right Style of Draperies
The style of your draperies should complement the overall aesthetic of your room. Using my dining room as an example, it’s a formal and traditional space, so I wanted a more tailored look. But lets review all of the options, as each space is different:
- Tailored: These classic draperies are characterized by clean lines, simple folds, and a polished appearance. They are perfect for traditional and contemporary spaces. Typically you’ll find your linen and cotton draperies are best suited for this look.
- Dramatic: If you’re looking to make a bold statement, dramatic draperies are the way to go. Think voluminous folds, luxurious fabrics like velvet, and intricate embellishments. These are ideal for dramatic and moody interiors.
- Casual: For a relaxed and inviting atmosphere, consider casual draperies. They often feature soft fabrics, relaxed folds, and a more informal look. Think of café curtains above the kitchen sink.
Lilie Linen Curtains | Brass Curtain Rod | Curtain Rings
Understanding Header Types
The header type is an important factor in determining the overall style of your draperies. Again, wanting a more tailored look for the dining room I chose a triple pinch pleat. Here are a few common options:
- Pinch Pleats: These pleats are created by pinching the fabric and stitching it in place. Pinch pleats are a versatile option that can be used for both tailored and dramatic styles. You can do a traditional pinch pleat, or a triple pinch pleat which uses more fabric and is therefore a fuller look.
- Rod Pocket: A simple header with a pocket that slides onto the curtain rod. This is a popular choice for casual and tailored draperies.
- Tab Top: Tabs are sewn into the top of the drapery, creating a casual and relaxed look.
- Grommets: Metal rings inserted into the top of the drapery, allowing the fabric to slide smoothly over the curtain rod. Grommets are often used for contemporary and industrial styles. To be perfectly honest, I’d advise against this option as it appears quite dated at this moment in time.
An example of a pinch pleat curtain header
Consider the lining
Lastly another important decision you’ll need to make is how you want your curtains lined. For a romatic and whispy effect, you can leave them unlined which will allow light to filter through. On the other hand, for privacy or insulation, you can go with blackout curtains which will create a heavier effect. In full transparency I chose blackout lined draperies and I wish I would’ve gone unlined.
Hanging the Rod
We’re going to skip ahead and touch on hanging the curtain rod next because that’s going to dictate how we measure for the drapery panels.
Rod Height
Hanging the curtain rod at the correct height can significantly impact the overall look of your room. As a general rule, hanging the rod 4-6 inches above the window casing is common practice. However, I personally prefer to take the rod all the way to the ceiling (or crown molding) as I think it creates a dramatic look. I also believe it makes the room appear larger and more grandeur.
Extending the Rod Past the Windows
You always want to extend the rod past the window to some degree. A good rule of thumb is to extend the rod 8-12 inches on each side. This allows the draperies to be fully open without blocking light and creates a more balanced look. If you’re tight on space or are close to a corner, you can go as short as 4 inches if needed.
Faux Limelight Hydrangeas | Geometric Rug | Bubble Chandelier | Wallpaper
As you can see in the dining room, I went all the way up to the ceiling and extended the rod about 6 inches on each side. I decided this mostly due to the space in between the windows. I didn’t want to end up with a skinny strip of wallpaper and wanted to allow enough space to hang my pretty vintage mirror I found at an estate sale.
Measuring for Drapes
Ok now to the most important part: determining the size of your draperies! Accurate measurements are essential for ensuring a perfect fit. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Width
Measure the width of your installed curtain rod. Based on what level of fullness you want your draperies to have, you’ll either multiply this number by 1.5, or by 2. So for example lets say your rod is 40 inches long:
- Tailored look ( x 1.5): 40 x 1.5 = 60 (each panel will be 60 inches wide)
- Dramatic look (x 2): 40 x 2 = 80 (each panel will be 80 inches wide)
The key here is you want enough fabric to close the curtains without looking like you have a flat sheet hanging up. No one wants that!
Length
Determine the desired length of your draperies. For a floor-length look, measure from the top of the rod to the floor. If you prefer a puddle effect, add an extra 4-5 inches.
An important note: take into consideration how you’re hanging your curtains. For example if you have a pocket hole back or grommets, it will be straight forward. However if you’re considering pinch pleats you’ll have rings on your curtain rod. These will cause an extra 1-2 inch drop from the rod to the top of the draperies. Make sure you account for that in your measurements.
I measured for my curtains to “kiss the floor” which creates a tailored look.
My curtain details:
Type: Lille linen blackout
Pleat: triple French pleat
Color: Snow White
Length: 104”
Width: 36”
Lining type: 90% blackout
choosing and installing custom draperies reminder
Draperies are more than just window coverings; they’re a statement piece that can dramatically transform the look and feel of a room. From tailored classics to dramatic extravaganzas, the right draperies can add warmth, elegance, and personality to your space. Remember, the key to successful drapery design is to create a cohesive and inviting atmosphere that reflects your unique taste.
Links:
Buster & Punch toggle light switch
Buster & Punch brass dimmer switch
Chairs (vintage) – similar
Table (no longer available)
