Transform Your Room For Less

Sometimes making dramatic changes to the look of a room by re-decorating can be expensive. However, one way to easily transform or update your décor on a budget is to change the drapes or curtains. You will be surprised at the dramatic difference new drapes can make to freshen up your home. Creativity and knowing where to go for the best quality and price can also make this an easy and inexpensive project.

Begin by deciding if you will use the existing hardware (rods) or would you like to replace them with something more modern. Oftentimes, you can use the same rods in a different way to alter their appearance. For example, you can take a stationary rod/pole (non-traversing) with curtains on it and simply add designer ring clips. This will allow you to use a classic pinch pleated drape on the rod and save money to put towards other drapes. Adding a second rod behind your existing hardware will permit the use of a sheer drape or curtain as an economic way to change your window treatments. Or, purchase cost effective standard heavy duty traverse rods in a neutral off-white color that blends in nicely with practically all styles of furnishings. In many cases, the rod can be covered with a new valance leaving you the perfect reason to keep your existing rods.

Choosing a drape or curtain style to suit your environment should be exciting. With the number of options available, it is easy to get carried away with trendy brick-a-brack window treatments that can leave your windows over dressed and your pocket book empty. Pick classic styles such as pinch pleated or tab top drapes and add a stunning valance to define the style of a room. If you want to create a more formal look, include a pinch pleated sheer that can be opened and closed to create an airy look as well as adding privacy. Finish with simple tie backs in the same fabric as the drapes to hold the drapes or curtains back away from the window.

Many times, a valance with your existing window treatments will highlight the drape or curtain and “top” it off adding a perfect frame to your view. If you have mixed types of window coverings in a room, valances on all of the windows also provides continuity to really bring the room together.

The most important way to save money on home improvement projects is to buy directly from the manufacturer. Often, their websites offer free tools and ideas to help you pick the perfect options. Purchasing directly from the factory ensures you are getting wholesale prices without costly mark-ups. You can receive the highest quality by purchasing American made products.

The total impact of your drapes, curtains, and window coverings can be very enriching and add the perfect finishing touch to your décor. Doing it for less will enrich your bank account too! Buying direct from the factory or manufacturer will also save you the costly 50-80% mark-up many retail stores and decorators add onto the product cost.