Did you catch Jaimie from SavoriSpaces on CBCEdmonton? We have her step by step guide on how to choose, hang, and make window coverings for your home!
Window coverings can be an overwhelming topic because there are so many options and can be quite expensive. How do you choose?
Typically the most cost effective route which provides the best function and impact is a blind with stationary side panel Jaimie works with her clients to establish the best window coverings based on 5 factors:
1) Aesthetics --what kind of look do you have? modern, traditional, whimsical? 2) Lifestyle -- are you ok cleaning or do you want something that's completely no fuss? 3) Function --ease of use, cords vs no cords, pulling a large drape across a window vs rolling up a blind. 4) Privacy concerns, -- how much do you want people to be able to see in 5) R-value -- an insulating factor. The more layers of fabric the better insulation. If the home is old - a cellular shade might be the best solution for example.
The Most Popular Blinds
-Roller blinds -- Roll up and down
-Silhouettes -- Have a sheer on back and front and have tilting "S" Vien which actually pushes light into a room and with the "S" vien gives you more control over your light.
-Duettes or Cellular Shades -- most popular due to their ability to blackout a room, insulate and also have the top down, bottom up feature.
Automation of Blinds
Technology has advanced a lot of blinds to have rechargeable batteries and compatible with Google home. You can also hardwire the blinds in which is typical of new homes or renovations when you have the opportunity to do so.
Drape Choices
The choices are endless. When you work with a designer we come out to your home with a variety of fabric samples to choose the best treatment and fabric suited for you! Jaimie selects fabric, then the style of treatment like a ripple fold, and then determines the hardware that will compliment. What you choose will give you different looks -- the Ripple fold drapery is more modern -- the Reverse box pleat is transitional -- the Pinch pleat is considered traditional
Choosing Rods and Hardware
Rods are determined whether you are choosing non operable side panels vs. drapery
If you have non operable side panels and you want more impact sometimes a short rod with crystal finials on both ends is a great way to add reflection to a space. Rods come in wood, metal, or resin. You can also get creative by using pegs such as cabinet hardware with a tab top drapes. And here is a tip-- the Higher the ceiling you must have thicker more substantial hardware, so it can be seen from below!
Hanging Drapery
Drapery or panels that look good are hung 3+" above casing and panels are 1/2" off floor.
Making our Own Drapes
1) Pick your fabric based on how you want space to look.
Choose fabrics by balancing other elements in space. ie. if there is no pattern in room, drapes are a great way to add impact yet complement other finishes in the space. If there is a lack of texture. Drapes can be the solution!
2) Next-- measure your window frame, frame width, and frame to floor height.
As Jaimie recommended, add 3-5. Inches to height on a typical application.
Width generally min 8" past the casing on both sides. the bigger the drape you want to determine your "stack back"
3) Depending on the treatment, usually double the amount of fabric is required at a minimum for width and 15" Extra for height for hems and headers.
4) Check supplies list!
5) Let's Make a Drape!
-- cut and hem drape to size using iron on hem tape or sewing machine
-- To finish your curtain edges, fold the fabric over twice on each side and stitch to create a clean edge.
-- To attach the curtains to the rod or hardware if you are using tabs. Pin & sew the tabs onto your curtain panel.
-- Tip! If your fabric is striped, match the stripes on the tabs to the ones on the panel.
-- Sew across the top using a ½" seam allowance.
-- Fold the side and bottom edge of the facing piece to match the finished width of the finished curtain panel. Press.
-- Pin the facing to the curtain panel, right sides together, then stitch across the top edge seam allowance.
-- Turn the panel over and press the facing down at the top edge, making sure to keep the tabs extended.
-- Stitch across the bottom of the facing to enclose the top edge and now your new panels are ready to be hung.
Trends
Currently simple is better. Textured light coloured drapes with simple black rods & end caps. Also sheers, we have gone away from Swags and Jabot treatments. However, Jaimie is seeing a trend in more traditional elements by adding in trim tape embellishments.