I am so happy to be covering this subject today because I recently asked my subscribers to let me know what they wanted to learn on Arts and Classy. It is very important to me to please my readers and provide them with valuable information on anything home decor related. One of the responses was to talk about curtains and specifically how to pick curtains for a room.

I know this can be a daunting task simply because there are SO many choices. You definitely don’t want to make the wrong choice because it could end up affecting the feel of the entire room you are decorating.

I have put together some important information and tips to help you choose the right curtain style for your space.

1. Fabric 

Fabric is essential when choosing curtains. The material will dictate how well the curtains function and how long they will hold up.

Pro Tip #1 – Hold fabric up to your window. Yes, you can even do this with a showroom window or even at Bed Bath and Beyond. If the fabric you are using appears stiff or rigid then it will not work nicely on your window. Make sure to work with large samples at least 2 yards long if you are going the custom windows route.

2.  Color

Here is one question you should ask yourself. Do I want my curtains to blend with my current existing decor?

If yes, pick curtains that have the same tone as your wall color, but a few shades darker. Another option is to choose a non-dominant subtle color. For example, a soft shade from an area rug or carpet in the room.

If you don’t want a subtle color that blends…ask yourself if you want your curtains to make a statement in the room you are decorating?

If you do want a bold color or pattern, it will act as an exclamation point!

Pro Tip #2 – Keep in mind the space where the sun shines through unlined curtains will infuse with the room. {i.e. Blue = Eerie and Pink = Cheery}

3. Prints & Patterns

If you have patterned furniture, bedding, or a very busy area rug, stick with solid curtains.

For a subtle, stylish look go for a small neutral print to achieve the look of texture from afar. {For example, dots and paisley prints tend to work well with this look.}

A large, bold graphic print in a color that relates to your decor can be considered daring but brilliant! If you want to make your curtains the main focus of your room, go this route!

4. Conditions of the Room

Sunlight will fade fabrics over time. If your room gets a lot of light during the day, it would behoove you to avoid bright colors. Go with neutrals if this is the case for you.

Pro Tip #3 – Linen, silk, faux silk, and velvet are the best choices to use for window treatments since they tend to hang the best on a window. Faux silk is super durable in comparison to real silk too.

Some fabrics can help keep out the cold. If you live somewhere where the winters can be brutal, choosing an insulating fabric like suede or velvet to help your power bill during the winter months.

Another example, many hotels use fabrics like suede, velvet, tapestry, or tweed since the weight of the fabric helps block out light and keep heat in.

Pro Tip #4 – An interlining, which is a piece of fabric slipped between the lining and the face of the fabric will help to prolong the life of curtains. If silk is not interlined it will rot. (important to keep that in mind.)

5. Length & Lining

How high above the window would you like your curtains to begin?

Pro Tip #5 – Hanging panels significantly higher than the window will help you achieve the look of more height in your room. In fact, many designers hang curtains about 6” above the window frame. For a more dramatic look, some go higher than that.

Get out your measuring tape and measure from the top of the window to the floor. Don’t forget to include added inches of the height where your curtains will hang from on the wall.

If you want a traditional look, with the curtains slightly puddled on the floor you will need to add two to three inches to your total length.

If you want a modern, clean line look, have the panel flush with the floor.

Pro Tip #6 – When measuring the width, be sure to add four to eight inches on both sides and double the total measurement to ensure curtain fullness.

6. Store-Bought vs. Custom

This is kind of self-explanatory, but I still wanted to mention that custom curtains have many benefits such as fabric type, lining choice, interlining choice etc. You can pick whatever you want when you go this route, but it will cost you. Custom drapes and curtains can be very pricey, but the quality surpasses anything store bought.

If you are on a budget (like me) store bought would be a fine choice. Just make sure to do your research. This may mean going to Bed, Bath, and Beyond to touch everything you like. Or it could mean ordering off of Amazon. If you don’t like the curtains, you can always return them.

I hope you found this information helpful! Please leave your feedback in the comments below and share on your social media!