Curtains

For a full, generous look, the combined width of the panels should be 1.5–2 times the rod width for grommet styles and 2–2.5 times for pinch pleats. Ready-made panels are usually sold individually, so add the widths together. Panels that are too narrow look flat and skimpy when closed. Measure the rod, not the window.

Floor-length curtains look most polished: let them just graze the floor, or hang about half an inch above it for easier cleaning. Standard lengths are 84, 96 and 108 inches. For a romantic look, an extra few inches can puddle on the floor, though this suits rooms with less foot traffic.

Hang it 4–6 inches above the window frame, or halfway between the frame and the ceiling, and extend it 6–10 inches beyond the frame on each side. Hanging curtains higher and wider makes windows look larger and lets panels stack back clear of the glass, so more light comes in.

Blackout liners block nearly all light, ideal for bedrooms and nurseries. Thermal liners insulate against heat and cold and help reduce drafts. Many panels do both. Interlined drapes, with a soft layer between fabric and lining, give the best insulation and the fullest drape. Lined panels also fade less in sunny rooms, and they hang better because the extra weight helps them fall straight.

Grommet panels glide easily along a rod and look modern. Pinch pleats are tailored and traditional and work on rods or traverse tracks. Rod-pocket and tab-top styles look casual and suit panels that are rarely opened and closed. Pick the heading to suit your rod before choosing the fabric. Clip rings suit any style.

Ready-made panels suit standard windows and tighter budgets. Custom drapes are worth it for bay windows, very tall or wide windows, or when you want a specific fabric, lining or heading. Custom can cost several times as much, so check ready-made ranges first for standard sizes. Request fabric samples before ordering.