DRAPERY

A few types of drapes and curtains

Grommet Curtains

Grommet curtains are the best choice for light to medium weight fabrics and include rings at the header that a rod goes through. This style is easy to hang, maintain, and use making it a great modern choice for bedrooms or living rooms.

Box Pleated Curtains

Box pleated curtains give a very tailored look and drape into deep folds down the full length of the fabric. The box shapes line up next to each other which creates that formal, pleated look. They are prefect for more formal rooms like the dining room, study or conference room.

Pinch Pleated Drapes

Pinch Pleating gives curtains a decorative finish at the top, and even though it gives a much more formal look compared to grommet drapes, it will work with most fabric types. The five types of pinch pleating are two finger pinch pleats, three finger pinch pleats, four finger pinch pleats, and five finger pinch pleats. The more the pleats, the larger the size and fullness of the pleat as well as the amount of fabric needed to make the drapes.

Tailored Pleat Curtains

The pleat starts at the top of the curtain fabric and falls from there. This is also known as the Euro pleat. This style works best with substantial, heavier fabrics, lighter weight drapes will need lining to look good with this type of pleat.

Goblet Pleat Drapes

For a more formal look and rooms with high ceilings the goblet pleat is a great option. The pleat towards the top resembles a wine glass or goblet. To keep the goblet pleat looking full and rounded, they should be shaped with interlining or wadding.

Sheer Curtains

Sheer drapes filter light and add a bit of privacy to a room. Sheer curtains are often hung as secondary curtains or over blinds and shades. This means the primary drape or shade can be used to block out light and then pulled back to reveal the sheers which allow light in while still offering privacy. This style complements modern and classic homes or condo decor and is a popular choice in Miami, Florida.  

Hanging Drape Options

Each type of drape has its own hanging needs. Drapes with grommets for example requires a curtain rod, while more formal curtains like the pinch pleat or goblet pleat include curtain tape and these would hang on a track.

Drape Length and Curtain Hanging System Placement

The length of the curtain also influences if a drape have a formal or casual look. Curtains longer than the window or door will pool on the ground or “puddle". When done correctly this creates a formal and grand look. The trick is to make sure you are using a medium to easy weight fabric, because if the fabric is too light weight it won't puddle nicely and can look messy and unfinished. For a more modern look, curtains can be hung so they drop down to just a few inches above the ground, creating a crisp and neat appearance.

You also need to consider how high above the windows or doors the rod or track will be placed. Hanging your curtains high above the window can make the windows look larger and the ceiling higher, which is a great design trick.

Cornices

Add matching custom made cornices at the top of your window or doors for and even more finished and exclusive look. Made from wood or fabric covered, cornices add that perfect elegant finish, they also help to reduce light coming in and play an important role in insulating the home in winter and summer. Cornices match your room decor and go well with drapes or shades.