How long should the curtains be

Properly selected curtains can complement any interior, regardless of the size of the room and the style of its design. But in order not to lose the choice of style, fabric and the very filing of models, you need to take into account the differences of modern products. First of all, you need to determine how long the curtains should be in different rooms. This will help you our detailed explanations and indications of the pros and cons of different lengths of canvases. After all, the same portieres in different interiors will look completely different. To determine the possibility of using those or other curtains, you need on the basis of their practicality, the overall impact on the design of the room. Be sure to count the optimal dimensions of the product. This will help you choose curtains that do not have to hem or take into account the consumption of fabric for a specific model, made to order. We described in detail the differences between modern products, and also indicated what should be the curtains in residential and non-residential rooms.

Curtain Types

There are many types of curtains, differing in style and design method. Commonly used options include:

• Classic

They are a smooth canvas with different lengths, different number of waves (may be completely straight). In the upper part can be supplemented with lambrequins.

• Austrian

Curtains, complemented by laces to pull up individual parts of the canvas. Due to the non-standard design, the lower part of the models has the appearance of several semicircles consisting of numerous layers of tightened fabric.

• Roman

Just like the Austrian ones, they are complemented with cords for pulling up. But when lifting they add up to a harmonica.

• Rolled

Smooth canvas used to close the window. When lifting such curtains are wound on a special roller.

• French

They are similar to Austrian, but the constricted tissue waves on them are located not only at the bottom, but throughout the entire height.

• Italian

They resemble classic curtains, but they cannot be shifted along the eaves: such models are fixed in one place. To open the window, you need to push it to the wall and fix it on a hook or with the help of a grip.

• Japanese

Represent an equal cloth (as well as rolled), fixed in separate levels. To open the window canvas on the slats are moved in different directions.

• Curtains "cafe"

They may have the format of Austrian, classical or Roman curtains, but the curtain with them is located not in the upper part of the window (above the window), but in the middle of the window opening.

• Cotton (kisea)

Curtains in the form of thin threads with or without lurex.

Curtain classification by length / height and width

Depending on the length of the curtain and its width, the interior of the room where canvases are used can vary considerably. By the length of the product are divided into the following categories:

• to the middle of the window;
• before the window sill;
• below the window sill;
• to the floor;
• to the floor and below the floor.

The width of the products is also significantly different. The model can only close the window (glass and frame), and can completely close the window opening (including slopes). Modern curtains can partially close the wall framing the window opening, and also almost completely close the wall with the window.

As for the features of the choice of the length and width of the canvases, the first thing to consider is the tailoring style and the functional requirements for the products. It is also important to remember about the different ways of mounting different curtains: inside the window opening, on the frame, above the window opening, on the ceiling.

To the window sill

For models to the window sill can also be attributed, and products with a length of up to the middle of the window. The latter usually have the form of an arch, allow you to hide only the upper part of the window opening. Their advantage is to protect the room from sunlight during the daytime, without interfering with the excellent access of natural light to the room. Curtains to the windowsill have a length that allows you to completely close the glass and frame (and possibly the walls near the window opening). But at the same time they do not fall on the windowsill itself. This option has many advantages. Short curtains are easier to care for (they are simply removed and cleaned regardless of style), they unobtrusively complement the overall look of the room. Also, do not prevent easy access to plants or other objects located on the windowsill. Can be attached to the ceiling or wall, fixed above the window opening, mounted in the opening or on the frame.

Below the window sill

Curtains of this type can only slightly cover the window sill or go down 10-20 cm below it. These models look concisely in any interior. Well are suitable both for bedrooms and nurseries, and for kitchens. In order to open the window with such products comfortably, it is recommended to install a pair of hooks on the walls along the sides of the window or to prepare special supports. The advantage of this type of model is the high-quality closure of the entire area of ​​the window opening during the day and at night. However, the variety of styles that are suitable for such an arrangement cannot be boasted. Ideal for such an arrangement of classic, Austrian, French curtains. Also it is necessary to take into account that these models will be of little use for protruding window sills with considerable depth.

To the floor

Under the curtains, having a length to the floor, means the canvas, which are located at a distance of 5-10 cm above the floor. They will be long enough to visually increase the height of the wall, but they will not collect dust and debris below. Good for this placement are suitable classic products, as well as Italian and Japanese models. Unusual will look threads to the floor, located in the bedroom of adults or teenagers. Such threads will emphasize the originality of stylization and bring dynamism into the interior. In spacious rooms with small window-sills (so that the fabric in this area is not blunt), long French curtains are allowed. They will give the general appearance of the room a special charm and elegance.

Portieres to the floor will help to hide the battery beautifully. But additionally, plastic, metal or wooden screens should be installed over the elements of the heating system.

To the floor and below the floor

The maximum long curtains that reach the floor or fall on it - a great option for living rooms. They emphasize the individuality of the taste of the owners, contribute to the unusual styling of the room. One of the most important advantages of such models is a visual increase in the height of the walls. In addition, when choosing a fabric that differs in color from the finish, you can achieve a visual separation of the room into several zones and beautifully highlight the window. The disadvantage of curtains in the floor is the rapid contamination of the lower part of the canvas. Therefore, cleaning in the rooms where such curtains will be hung should be carried out daily. Otherwise, to maintain the attractiveness of textiles simply will not work. The following styles are considered ideal for such a supply: Italian and classic.

Curtain length depending on the style

When choosing the desired length of curtains, one should never forget about the stylistic direction created in the equipped room. After all, the length of the paintings will directly affect the perception of the interior. In addition, the same curtains (in the same style and from the same fabric), but with different lengths will look completely different in a particular style. Our simple hint will help you find the best solution for your home:

• short models (up to the middle of the window, to the window sill);

In light colors will help give lightness to the classic design or Provence. In light gray, lilac or pastel colors, comfort and restraint of stylization are emphasized (such options are optimal for the modern and urban areas). Gray, white (possible with black splashes) rolled or Roman curtains will complement the modern, high-tech and Scandinavian style. The canvases in bright colors will add dynamism to the design (but this option would be appropriate only in a teenage room, in the kitchen, in a single-color bathroom).

• medium models (below the windowsill);

"Golden" middle, which will be appropriate in any direction. So, in the classic interior of the curtains in dark colors emphasize the solidity of the design. In the loft and country linen medium linen length will complement the simplicity of design. And in Provence, white canvas or canvas in a cage will be a good frame for any window.

• long models (up to the floor, to the floor and below).

They distinguish originality, elegance and refinement of design. Linen cloth of such length can be used in the loft design. Dark and neutral satin curtains are suitable for classic, urban style. Canvases with exquisite patterns, fringe and lambrequins will perfectly decorate Art Deco and Baroque.

The length of the curtains in different rooms

The possibility of using a particular style in a particular room and the type of curtains depends on the purpose of the room. The longest canvases are allowed to hang on the windows in the living rooms of adults and adolescents. In the rest of the premises, their location will be irrational: it will often be necessary to clean and wipe the fabric. The average length of the curtains provides ease of care, regardless of their location. But at the same time a variety of folds, the presence of complex weaving can lead to the problem of dust accumulation. Therefore, for kitchens and children's recommended "standard" models of natural or semi-synthetic fabrics in a simple version. As for short curtains, they are universal and suitable for any room. But at the same time in the bedroom or living room such models will not be able to emphasize the whole individuality and originality of the situation. You also need to remember about the "compliance" of the equipped premises and the fabric used: they must be equal to each other in quality, direction, basic external characteristics (refinement or simplicity, refinement or "coarse" flow).

Curtains in the kitchen

A practical solution for the kitchen will be the choice of short curtains (to the middle of the window or to the window sill) from straight fabrics or with a minimum number of waves. Care of such models will be simple and will provide good natural lighting of the room. The best can be considered roll and classic short models. It can be products from a fabric with an average density or light translucent cloths. It is not recommended to choose for kitchens model with a protruding pattern or too dense weaving. Due to the nature of the room where cooking is carried out, it is in such canvases that dust and grease particles will constantly accumulate. And to maintain their attractive appearance will be quite difficult.

A good solution for the kitchen can be rolled curtains day-night. The presence of dense and translucent stripes will provide easy adjustment of the brightness of natural lighting.

Curtains in the living room

Since the living room is intended for family recreation and reception of guests, in such a room you can hang up both bright simple curtains, as well as luxurious classic and Italian models. The choice should be directly based on the requirements of the owners and the atmosphere created in this room. So, Austrian, Italian models will look the best in the elegant living room. But in a bright modern living room you can do with short translucent curtains with bright patterns. Japanese models with a large pattern on each canvas will also look good. As for the rooms with bay windows, in which there is a sofa for rest, they can be decorated with curtains of any length. This corner will be well framed as a simple rolled models, and exquisite Austrian curtains.

Curtains in the bedroom

In the modern bedroom (as well as in modern and high-tech) short curtains will look good, which will only complement the interior of the room. For rooms decorated in bright colors or having a non-standard design (Baroque, Art Deco, Provence), it is better to hang the canvas to the floor or floor. It is not recommended to pick up curtains with numerous assemblies, if the owners want to emphasize the simplicity of design. And, on the contrary, to give luxury, fabrics with original supply will be needed, supplemented with patterns and decorated with lambrequins. In the presence of a bay window or semi-power, it is worthwhile to take care of the ceiling placement of a semicircular eaves, which will help to frame the window opening in style. Also, a wooden pelmet may be a highlight of the chosen curtain in the provenance or the classic direction. True, it should be selected in the appropriate submission: for Provence in a white color scheme, for the classics in a more strict dark brown color.

Curtains in the nursery

In the nursery, curtains to the window sill and just below the window sill will be appropriate. Long canvases can not be considered a suitable option: if the child plays near the window, he may accidentally hook the product and in the worst case, tear the curtain from the eaves. In children's rooms it is recommended to hang a combination of products: curtains with tulle. They will provide good protection of the room from the bright sun in the daytime (even if the child is not sleeping during the day), will warn the light from the lanterns, the moon in the room at night. The best options can be considered roll, French, Austrian models. Roman blinds or plisse will be able to stylishly complement the baby’s room. True, the cleaning of multi-layered cloths is best done every day or every other day. This will maintain a healthy atmosphere in the room and eliminate the accumulation of dust in the folds of the fabric.

Tips for choosing fabric

Choose a suitable fabric for sewing curtains or when buying finished products should be given all the characteristics of the material. These include density, appearance, ease of care. It is easy and simple to choose which fabric you will hang in your house in different rooms, this tip will help:

• Crepe: synthetic fabric, usually supplemented with bright protruding patterns, is well suited for simple styling;
• Jacquard: thick fabric with patterned weaving, can be single-colored or two-colored, a good drape option for the bedroom and living room;
• organza and chiffon: translucent fabrics that can become full curtains or be used for sewing light curtains;
• satin and satin: silk fabrics with a shiny surface will emphasize the originality of the interior, but will need neat gentle cleaning;
• Satin: natural fabric with loose weaving, combining simplicity and conciseness;
• Linen: natural fabric with coarse weaving, ideal for a simple unfashionable framing of windows.

How to calculate the amount of fabric for curtains

Ordering curtains or doing it yourself requires an exact count of the right amount of fabric. For straight drapes without folds, it is necessary to measure the width and height of the window (or wall). But if you want to make curtains with folds, then to the calculations you need to separately add the size of each assembly. Correctly calculate the desired width of the fabric cut for curtains will help you our simple table of coefficients. The numbers indicated in it according to the number of folds or the type of fastening of the curtain should be multiplied by the previously measured eaves width (window). Additionally, add about 5-8 cm to the side gate of the fabric on both sides.

The length is determined as follows: the desired curtain length is + 10 cm above and below for a neat curtain of the material.

The presence of a horizontal pattern requires consideration of its repetition. According to the width of the fabric itself in the roll and the distance between the patterns, it is necessary to determine the optimal length of the desired web.

How to make measurements

Correct measurement of the window opening, as well as the eaves, to which the curtains will be attached, will help to correctly calculate the required footage of the finished product and not to be mistaken when buying fabric. So, the width measurements should be carried out as follows:

1. For curtains that will frame only the frame and, accordingly, will be fastened to the leaf (roll, roman): the width of the glass of each individual leaf is measured. 2-3 cm are added to the obtained lengths.
2. For curtains mounted in the window opening or in the middle: the width of the opening itself is measured.
3. For curtains that will be attached to the curtain above the window opening or on the ceiling: opening width + 20-40 cm (depending on the requirements for partial or complete closure of the walls on the sides of the window).

As for the measurement of height, it should be carried out from the point of the eaves. For example, for the eaves on the ceiling for curtains to the floor, this distance can be 280 or 300 cm (according to the height of the ceiling in the room). For canvases to the floor with the wall arrangement of the eaves, the size of the height can be 220 or 250 centimeters. Accordingly, for models up to the window sill, the length will be between 1.6 m and more.

How to choose the color of the canvas and with what to combine it

Selectable curtains can complement the selected color range of the room or become a bright frame of the window that makes it stand out. К самым простым вариантам подбора нужного цвета полотна относятся такие схемы:

• По тону отделки

Изделия должны иметь похожий оттенок, как выбранная отделка. In some cases, the color of the curtains will be appropriate.

• By the tone of the furniture

Quite often, the identity of the color of curtains and furniture allows you to get a stylish and beautiful design of the room.

• By tone of textiles

The same color of the cushions, carpet and curtains will help to create beautiful accents in the overall design.

• Selection of a balcony or recreation area

For this scheme, select the curtains and a pair of chairs (or a small sofa) in the same color. Upholstered furniture will be located in front of the window, on the balcony or in the opposite corner of the room.

• Selection of a window opening

This option is appropriate for bright rooms. Selected curtains will be a bright accent, attracting the gaze to the window. It would be logical to decorate the window sill with live plants, inconspicuous pillows or other decorations.

Conclusion

Having carefully studied the detailed information about the types of curtains and the rules of their requisitions for different rooms of the house, you can easily decorate your home. Take into account when searching for suitable models of their style, length and width. To correctly determine the desired size of the canvas, you will need to measure part of the window (and possibly the walls for long models in the floor with a length of 2.5-2.8 m), where the curtain will be located. Next, you need to calculate how much fabric is required for sewing the product, and what parameters the finished model should have. Our coefficient table and useful tips will help you easily find out the desired curtain size for standard or non-standard windows. You just need to pick the best material for quality, ease of care and stylistic presentation and start making original and stylish curtains.