How to Measure Curtains and Hangings, Part 2

We should now have in our measurement book the following: the length of the finished curtains, the amount of the material required for each curtain and also for the pair; the exact measurement of the lining when applied and finished, and also the amount required. For the edging we have the finished length and width, allowing 6 inches for the corner and turn ins, and twice that for the pair. If there are several windows of the same measurements we have only to multiply the amounts required by the windows.

Materials come in two widths, 81 inches and 50 inches, perhaps varying an inch or so. We can use the full 31 inches or we may split the 50 inches. Provided the pattern lends itself to this division and the window openings are not too wide to allow for it, the 50-inch goods work to better advantage. It comes in more handsome designs and sometimes in superior material. The edges if possible should have an applied edging, not hemmed, for every inch of the 25 will be needed. Often with elaborate under-hangings all that is wanted is a straight fold of color to carry out a scheme in a room and the 25-inch curtains do this admirably. In the bedroom, where the 50-inch material is used as a bedcover, the same material split answers well for the curtains. Thus in measuring, using half width, you need just half as much material. Thus far we have reckoned using curtains without valances. To measure for valances requires much time and thought, as they are as varied as the ingenuity of man or woman can make them. But since we are dealing with a simpler sort of curtain, that the ambitious householder may make for herself, we shall put aside for the professional the elaborate valance.

Of valances, there are gathered, pleated and stiff valances or lambrequins fitted over the window casing and covering over the sides as well. In measuring material for a pleated and shirred valance allow 1/3 to 1/2 extra of the width completed and from 12 inches depth in the bedroom to 18 inches for a more formal treatment. For instance, in a bedroom using a split 50-inch material for side curtains, the entire Width may be used for a valance of 12 inches. This does not include a 2-inch hem or the heading. Avoid making the valances too full, as they stick out, or too skimpy, as they look meager and economical. If a flat valance is used the amount of the material depends upon the width of the window. One width will probably do for this valance. If the valance is shaped and lined we must allow 2 inches for the top and bottom turn-in. Of course, in a shaped valance, the measurement must be taken from the widest part.

We must always allow in figured goods, for the repeat and the amount of goods wasted must be reckoned in the cost. Sometimes this material may be used in the valance.

In a large spread design it is surprising how little the general motif shows when the curtain is hung. If we are undecided about the necessity of matching up a design in a pair of curtains we can always gather up the material and pin it over the back of a chair or screen and see how important the strong motif appears when gathered. If it shows decidedly, match up the pairs perfectly; if not, we can hang them as the cloth cuts and consider ourselves lucky.

Having the measurement of the material required for each pair of curtains and the valance, we have only to add up the amounts in the various windows, multiply this by the price per yard and we have the cost of the material. Add the cost of the lining and the edging and we have an estimate that should be accurate. Damask, velours and such handsome materials require interlining of canton flannel. This is too big an undertaking for the amateur. The cost of the material warrants their being made up in a proficient manner.

In making curtains, use a large table which you can walk around. A bed usually answers the purpose but a table is better. Use a good sewing machine, baste carefully and cut by thread, with the exception of very cheap cretonnes. This is one reason why cheap cretonnes scarcely pay, as they cannot be cut by a thread, as the weave is too imperfect and when they are laundered this imperfection makes them skew. Sash curtains should always be cut by a thread, as they must be laundered regularly. Scrim is preferable to muslin, as the weave is more even.

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Curtains for Country Cottages

For country cottage use, curtains may be made of unbleached cotton with a two and one-half inch ruffle down the inside and at the bottom, and hung on rods at the top and bottom sash. This makes four at each window. When the panes are of small squares, the effect is charming. They are used in place of shades. Rather narrow over-curtains of plain colored material hung in straight folds add color.

Plants put on the window ledge with these ruffled curtains and overhangings give just the right cottage touch reminiscent of Kent and Surrey. The same idea can be applied to camps and bungalows. Shade fixtures rust and get out of order during the severe winter weather. Also they become frayed, and dampness takes out the stiffness. Therefore the little cotton washable curtains with or without ruffles are most serviceable. For overhangings in a camp, if one wants a bit of color, Turkey red stripes are effective and durable. Washable materials are best for the country house as each season the hangings may be carefully laundered and put away in large boxes, ready for the next season's use. Almost all cotton curtains shrink. Before laundering rip the hems and after washing rehem them.

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What are the Different Types of Made to Measure Curtains?

What are the Different Types of Made to Measure Curtains?

Undoubtedly, made to measure curtains make a declaration in each setting room or office. These types of curtains, made to measure curtains, come in several colors, materials and size options. You have got to make sure that you have measured your windows correctly before asking for made to measure curtains and that ensure you have decided what measurements you need to take.

Nowadays a lot of homes use made to measure curtains to locate the mood in the room and to inspire an atmosphere of class and superiority. Will you want different styles of Made to measure curtains for different rooms or will you want a regular style throughout your home. Darker colored curtains can look warm and present a homely atmosphere, whilst brighter colors can make rooms appear spacious light and airy. High quality Made to measure curtains is key to ensure continuous washing and changing doesn't fade or reduce the quality look and feel of the material.

A lot of fabrics are available and can help with adding visual space, warmth and calming motions. Fabrics come in large rolls to meet your taste and can be cut suit your exact measurements. On building a new home many shoppers now use wooden roman blinds instead of Made to measure curtains, but will this trend last or will shoppers wish to return to warm, luxurious pieces of wall art that will keep heat in the room and reduce your oil bills. New homes and old homes alike can all benefit from curtains and heat saving. As energy prices rise every little helps, as people start to increase insulation and reduce their spending due to recession cuts.

Made to measure curtains is also great value for money especially if you select a fabric on sale or clearance fabric. Deals can be had if you shop around, but please ensure you use a reliable company with tried and tested stitching to ensure you curtains don't fall apart.

What to keep away from in made to measure curtains 

Always stay clear of so called too cheap to be true items, as they generally are too good to be true. Many companies can provide curtains with a great fabric design but very poor fabric quality. This as I stated earlier can cause more hastle than it is worth unless you never intend to move or touch your Made to measure curtains. Some companies tend to over charge for so called designer fabrics, when really other options are available those are very similar if you shop around. In short always take your time when shopping. 

You should visit shops, touch and feel the different fabrics and ensure you know what fabric specifications you want before starting to shop online for extra value. This will ensure you know exactly what you are getting before you buy. This will prevent returning items that you don't like. Most online stores have numerous fabric design options for you to browse and to select and if you are lucky they may be advanced enough to show 3D generated images to match your room type. This is a win win situation as you can see the curtains in your room type before you order your Made to measure curtains. It also means your aren't torturing telesales staff about how they could look on your wall.

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