Whether you’ve just moved into a new property and are looking to add the finishing touches to your home décor, or are revamping your family home to add a fresh look, window coverings are the perfect place to start. Whether you choose curtains, blinds or screens, the right choice can pull your whole look together and ensure your home is cosy and inviting.
Finding the Perfect Curtains
It can be tricky to find the perfect curtains for your window, and many people pay to have bespoke curtains made to measure – this way you’re ensuring that your curtains will fit perfectly and you can choose from a wide range of fabrics and styles. But why not go one better and use some of your creativity by creating your own curtains? With so many websites offering an extensive range of fabrics, it has never been easier to find the perfect fabric for your curtains at an affordable price – and by spending less on fabric, you can afford to spend more on accessories such as curtain tie-backs, finials and decorative poles, such as curtain poles for bay windows. But what is ‘in’ this season, and what should you avoid when it comes to choosing fabric that will look stylish and contemporary in your home?
Contemporary Choices
Modern curtains are fun and funky – think light, sheer voiles, bold patterns or solid neutrals. Floral and paisley patterns look great, but opt for bold choices to avoid your curtains looking too ‘fussy’ and dated. Light, sheer voiles are a great choice for the bedroom, but team with a lined roller blind or heavier curtains in a neutral or pastel shade to add privacy. Avoid heavy fabrics such as chenille and velvet – unless you live in a period home and are trying to add a touch of opulence to your surroundings, these will generally look dated and out of place. For the best value for money option, light, printed cotton fabrics are the ideal choice – available in a range of colours and designs they look as good in children’s bedrooms as they do in the kitchen.
Get Creative
Of course, you don’t have to stop at fabric choices – haberdashery stores and online retailers, as well as some department stores, sell a range of trims and accessories you could add to your curtains. Why not add a pretty ruffle trim or buttoned hem to a pair of curtains for a totally unique look? You could even make your own co-ordinating tiebacks. Look online and in interior design magazines for inspiration and keep copies of your favourite ideas to refer back to later. If you’re not sure how to go about making your own curtains, there are plenty of guides available online, or pick up a book on the subject from your local library or book shop. It’s easy once you know how, and provided you have access to a sewing machine, it should be a quick and simple process. Beware the addictive nature of creating your own curtains though – soon you’ll be making cushion covers, throws and all kinds of home accessories!
Curtain Poles
Spend some time choosing the perfect curtain poles and finials to complement your new curtains – whether you opt for curtain poles for bay windows, contemporary metal poles with glass finials or traditional wooden curtain poles, there is a wide range available to choose from, and something to suit all tastes. Metal poles with decorative glass or cast iron finials look great with bold, patterned curtains – if your home is more traditional, then a wooden pole complements simple neutral shades or floral curtains perfectly.
Spring is a great time to get creative and make your own curtains – it’s the perfect way to save money and end up with something entirely unique that will be the envy of all your friends and family!
Aimee Coppock is a freelance interior designer and part-time blogger from London. When she’s not installing curtain poles for bay windows and whipping up the coolest contemporary curtains on her sewing machine, she can be found relaxing in Hyde Park, usually with the latest crime bestseller!
