Having the right curtains can make or break a room, but buying new ones can prove very expensive – so curtain alterations are a very attractive alternative for many people. You can take your existing curtains to a suitable provider, such as a specialized tailor, who will be able to apply appropriate alterations, or if you are more confident in your abilities, you can make the changes yourself.
It’s possible to add extra verve to your curtains by making use of accessories, too. An example of this is the holdback, which is generally made of an attractive metal, such as iron or brass. This will – as its name implies – hold back your curtains, and with the added touch of carefully chosen decorative fittings, this small addition can have a remarkable impact.
If you would prefer a rather softer look than that which a holdback will give you, then the obvious option is to add a tieback instead. These tend to appeal to those who want to give their rooms a quieter, more informal feel, and tiebacks can look very refined and graceful. You can add extra touches, such as tassels and bows, to create a complete and satisfying look.
For those who find their existing curtains a little uninteresting, a small amount of work on the trim can pay real dividends. There is an enormous range of trimming materials available, ranging from simple ribbons, through fringes and braids such as bullion and picot, right through the more complex and modern-looking options such as beaded trim. Decide which matches your room best.
Old curtains don’t have to be replaced entirely. Just a little work can transform a dowdy, uninspired look into something that you will once again feel proud to have in your home. When it comes to curtain alterations, the scope for displaying your own personal sense of style is wide, and you will find that your newly personalized curtains have a real zest to them!
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3 Comments
Except for a few minor exceptional scenarios, for me, curtains are rather old fashioned. Unless the dcor theme of your home is a classic old world type of theme, I would say that vertical blinds and other more fancy and expensive shutter type of window covers are in order. I prefer modern and contemporary styles over vintage decorations and fixtures. I did say there are exceptions for me, and one of them would be purple crushed velvet or satin curtains, for their sheer sexy look.
I am looking for a couture type of curtain, A lush mixture of crushed velvet, ruffles, and hand-appliqud accents, much like the material that makes up the rich ingredients of the Dian Austin Couture Home bedding. Their three-panel adjustable dust skirts have an 18" drop. Patched throw features embroidered roses. Dust skirts are made of polyester; all others are silk. Shams, pillows, and curtains are USA/imported; fabric is imported. Their price however is a whopping $1,000.
I agree with Ruth as far as the more modern decoration being blinds of some sort whether it is vertical blinds of some sort or horizontal wooden blinds (which I have) then all you have to add if you really want to decorate it up is a shear sash or something across the top the drapes down the sides. The actual use of drapes and curtains went out quite awhile ago.