When it comes to selecting the right curtain type for your home, take the time to consider how installing DIY custom-made curtains could affect the aesthetic of your room, as well as light, privacy and mood. Determining which type of curtain is right for your home involves firstly choosing a pleat design, as well as a fabric colour and lining option, and whether you need a single or double track. Choosing between the different curtain pleat designs determines how the curtain will look at the top and also how the curtain fabric will fall.
Pleat design
Single Pleat
The Single (Pinch) Pleat curtain design is a popular curtain solution found in classic home interiors and more formal spaces of the home. This sophisticated curtain design creates a pleat at the back of the curtain which in turn creates a flat panel type design at the front of the curtain, offering clean lines. This design is well suited to the dim out and blockout fabrics.
Double Pleat
The Double (Pinch) Pleat style of curtain is two folds of fabric sewn together to create a double pleat. This is a full bodied and classic curtain style found in many Australian homes. The Double Pleat curtain is a versatile design working with both formal and casual interior décor styles. This also means that the Double Pleat curtain works in any room of the home, from bedrooms to living rooms, and works with all different fabric transparencies.
Wave Fold
Wave Fold curtains are a very common modern curtain design found in living rooms and bedrooms. The Wave Fold curtain gets its name from the wave like effect created by the cord and hooks attached to the curtain track. This common design is well suited to a sheer or light filter curtain fabric as it adds an elegant touch to any space. One of the main differences with the Wave Fold curtains compared to the Pinch Pleat and the Reverse Pleat, is that the curtain fabric sits approximately 10mm below the track, instead of covering the track.
Fabric Transparencies
When it comes to the different types of custom curtains for your home, there is also the fabric transparency to consider. Depending on your needs and wants for light and privacy control, you can choose between sheer fabric, and a range of fabric colours with three lining options: Blockout, Light Filter and Unlined. Sheer fabric and Blockout fabric curtains are the most common.
Blockout Curtains
Blockout curtains are commonly found in homes, especially in rooms such as bedrooms or media rooms. Blockout curtains are great for those who want to completely blockout natural sunlight or street lights. They are also perfect for privacy, preventing preying eyes. Blockout curtains also help to improve insulation and better regulate room temperatures.
Sheer Curtains
Sheer curtains are commonly found in living rooms, dining areas or spaces in the home where you want to filter sunlight. Sheer curtains offer a layer over your windows and doors, however, do not offer privacy or light control.
If you love the look of sheer curtains but also want privacy and light control, try a day night curtain. Pairing a blockout curtain with a sheer curtain allows you to have the best of both worlds and determines how much light and privacy you require all throughout the day.
Cleaning Curtains
When cleaning your curtains, it comes down to the different types of curtain fabrics. For regular cleaning, a quick dusting will help to improve the longevity of the fabric and for any stains, simply spot clean with a damp cloth. For tough stains, it’s recommended to contact the supplier for full cleaning instructions for your fabric and it is recommended that all curtains are dry-cleaned by a professional. This will help to prevent damage to the curtain fabric and shrinkage.
