Edmontons Curtains & Drapes

By Kelly P. Kramer

Curtains and drapes. Many people use these terms interchangeably, however, there is a difference that will help guide your window covering decisions. Curtains are shorter, perhaps not reaching the floor, and are made of lighter materials. Often times, curtains are usually functional (they open and close). Drapes are rooted in the decorative vs. the functional custom curtains. These normally come to the floor and flank curtains on either side. These are normally lined, and are made with heavy fabrics such as velvet or heavy cotton.

Curtains and drapes albeit different, are also similar as they provide your home with privacy, elegance and in some cases energy efficiency. Popular fabrics include silk, velvet, cotton and there are as many treatments as your mind can think up. Whether your curtains and drapes are short curtains, long drapes, gathered drapes, pleated curtains, Moroccan-style drapes, sheer curtains, blackout drapes or country-style curtains, custom curtains and drapes have an everlasting elegance perfect for any room or decorating mood. From the different fabrics, to the endless array of treatments and colors, soft curtains & drapes are the designers medium of choice for making any room a showcase.

Curtains and Drapes: Hang your curtains and drapes to complement your décor, block out light during the day, and prevent people from looking into your home. Some curtains and drapes even have special "blackout" liners that block out sunlight entirely. Curtains and drapes come in a variety of lengths, fabrics (for example, silk and velvet), patterns, including floral prints and gingham, and solid colors.

Sheer curtains typically hang beneath curtains and drapes, allowing natural light to softly filter into your room during the day. At night they'll become transparent if you turn on your lights.

Curtains & Drapes come in an endless variety of materials, sizes and styles. Consequently, most curtains and drapes are of a custom nature. Ready-made curtains and drapes come in the same standard sizes which may not suit your needs if you have small or even over-sized windows or doors. For custom made curtains & drapes you need to measure- be exact, as 1/8th of an inch can make a difference on an inside mount treatment.

The care of your curtains and drapes is important. Home laundering is usually recommended for all curtains & drapes except those where dry cleaning is advised. Curtain and Drape fabrics such as wool, mohair, and pique should be dry cleaned.

Pre-washing your curtains & drapes before use is recommended and linens should be washed separately from any items containing polyester. Polyester has a tendency to "pill" and will shed on natural fibers and can diminish the smoothness and softness of your curtains & drapes.

When washing your Curtains & Drapes, use a gentle laundry detergent. Products with bluing agents or whiteners are not recommended for colored curtains and drapes as they may, over time, fade the drapes & curtains.  Shrinkage – shrinkage will occur in all curtains & drapes made of natural fibers, generally between 4% and 10%. Most manufacturers allow for this in the construction. Curtains and Drapes washed in hot water or dried at a hot setting will shrink more. Pre-shrunk curtains & drapes will generally not shrink more than 3%. Curtains & Drapes with a very high thread count are generally not preshrunk.  

Washing and drying your curtains & drapes properly will help to eliminate wrinkles. Curtains and drapes made of natural fibers do wrinkle, particularly when new. As the curtains & drapes age they become softer and less prone to wrinkles.

Use a good steam iron for your curtains & drapes. Avoid using spray starch as it sometimes attracts silverfish to stored linens. Iron your curtains and drapes while they are still damp. If the curtain or drape is embroidered, iron from the reverse side. Always check care labels before any ironing any of your curtains & drapes.