What to Expect During the Buying Process

Buying window covering, whether it is light curtains, more formal drapery or roman shades, is an exciting undertaking but can also feel intimidating. We are here to walk you through the steps and considerations to ensure you select the right style, fabric, and size for your needs. Here's what you can expect during the curtain buying process:

1. Assess Your Needs

  • Room and Window Measurements: Measure the dimensions of your windows (width and height). Consider how high above the window you want the curtains to start and how long you want them to be (floor-length, sill-length, etc.).  Do you want your curtains to just "kiss" the floor or do you want them to form more of a "puddle"? When the curtains are pulled back, do you want full window to show or are you ok with partial window being covered by the pull-back? 
  • Purpose: Determine the primary function of the curtains. Are they for privacy, light control, insulation, or purely decorative?
  • Room Style: Consider the existing decor and color scheme of the room where the curtains will be installed. Is your style more traditional, transitional or sleek and modern?

2. Research and Inspiration

  • Browse Styles: Look through home decor magazines, websites, and stores for inspiration. Pay attention to different styles (e.g., contemporary, traditional, minimalist) and types of curtains (e.g., blackout, sheer, thermal).
  • Fabric Types: Learn about different fabrics such as cotton, linen, velvet, silk, and synthetic blends. Each has different characteristics in terms of light filtering, insulation, and maintenance. Our About Us page tells you more about the passion we feel for sustainable fabric options. 

3. Budgeting

  • Set a Budget: Determine how much you're willing to spend on curtains. Factor in costs for rods, brackets, tiebacks, and other accessories if needed.
  • Quality vs. Cost: Balance quality and cost. Higher-quality curtains might be more expensive but could offer better durability and performance. Consider investing for the long run and avoid the urge to buy "disposable" curtains which may eventually end up in the land-fill. 

4. Shopping

  • Online vs. In-Store: Decide whether you want to shop online or visit stores. While  there is no doubt that in-store shopping allows you to see and feel the fabric, our online shopping offers a broader range of options shown with high quality images that are you are able to peruse from the comfort of your own home.
  • Custom vs. Standard-Sizing: We have made our standard sizing curtains available to enable quick shipping but if you have just a bit more time, we highly encourage our custom creations. They offer a tailored fit, unique style and surprisingly affordable compared to our competitors. 

5. Selection

  • Choose Style and Fabric: Select the style (e.g., grommet, rod pocket, tab top) and fabric based on your research and room requirements. More details available on our Styles page.
  • Color and Pattern: Choose a color or pattern that complements your room's decor. Consider how much light the room gets and how the color will look in different lighting.
  • Lining Options: Decide if you need lined or unlined curtains. Linings can offer extra privacy, light control, and insulation. All of our product come with high quality privacy lining.

6. Measuring and Ordering

  • Accurate Measurements: Ensure your measurements are precise. We offer more information on our Measurements page
  • Order Process: Place your order, whether it's for custom or ready-made curtains. Confirm all details such as size, fabric, color, and any additional features like lining.

7. Installation Preparation

  • Hardware: Purchase curtain rods, brackets, and other necessary hardware. Ensure they match the style of your curtains and are appropriate for the weight of the fabric.
  • Tools: Gather tools you’ll need for installation, such as a drill, screws, level, and tape measure.

8. Installation

  • Mounting the Rods: Follow the manufacturer's instructions to mount the curtain rods. Ensure they are level and securely attached.
  • Hanging Curtains: Hang the curtains on the rods and adjust them as needed. Check that they open and close smoothly and hang evenly.

9. Final Touches

  • If you haven't ironed your curtain prior to hanging, use a steam-iron to smooth out any wrinkles. Heavier drapery will smooth out on its own once it has been hanging for a while. Please note that they may lengthen slightly from weight over time. Please be mindful of that when measuring. Alternatively, the rod installation can be adjusted up (if space allows it) to counteract the eventual lengthening. 
  • Adjustments: Make any final adjustments to the length or position of the curtains.
  • Styling: Add any decorative touches like tiebacks or holdbacks to complete the look.

By following these steps, you can navigate the curtain buying process smoothly and end up with curtains that enhance the look and functionality of your space.