Replacing your Drapes Part II

4) Using a retractable metal tape measure, measure the front of the rod only across the front tip to tip for width. Do not include in your measurements the brackets at the ends of the rods and overlaps in the middle. Use this measurement as the width to order or purchase new drapes.

5) Determine how long you want your replacement drapes. This is an aesthetic decision. You want to balance the height of the perceived window (and the drape becomes part of the window) with the rest of the room. Place your tape measure on the top center of the rod down to where you want the drape to hang. On custom drape rods, place the tip of your tape measure on the top of the clip beneath the rod down to where you want the drape to hang. In order to adequately cover the window to provide incoming light reduction and privacy, measure 4” past the bottom of the window casing. If you would like your drapes to hang down to the floor from your “custom rod” place the tip of your measurement tape at the top of the clips beneath the rod down to 1” above the floor or carpeting. To have your drapes hanging from the ceiling down to just above the floor or carpeting, place the tip of your measuring tape at the top of the clips beneath the rod down to 1” above the floor or carpeting. Use this measurement as the height for your new drapes.

6) Choose custom-made for your replacement drapes. Unlike ready-made drapes, custom-made drapes are created to your specifications so your treatments fit your window and style. Most designers advocate having drapes custom-made because with ready-made drapes you're not only limited in sizing, they are also not as full or rich-looking and may not be lined. At FactoryDirectDrapes.com you can choose any fabric, colour and drape styles for your custom-drapes at up to 80% off savings. You simply won't find lower price custom made drapes, curtains and valances online!

Replacing your Drapes Part I

New drapes for your home can dramatically change the overall appearance of a room, adding color, softness and style. Drapes are a great investment to beautify your home. Make sure you're making the right choices in terms of function and style. Replace drapes to modernize your space, make it more energy efficient or coordinate with new furniture and paint. Depending upon the choices you make, you can replace drapes and hardware, just drapes, or even add accents or panels to change the look of your current window treatment.

1) Look around your room and determine whether your style is more traditional or more modern. You would want to pick a drape style that would complement your new room decor and color scheme.

2) Replace your hardware if you change the style of drapes. You should try to match drape rods to complement your drape and somewhat match the design theme and style of your home (e.g. contemporary, vintage, etc.) Choose tab top or grommet drapes with an attractive decorative rod for a clean and modern look. Opt for a rod pocket panels for an easy and classic look or combine these with valances. Hang pinch pleated drapes using traverse rods for a classic and more formal style.

3) Mount new curtain rods or tracks on your windows, as necessary for the drapery treatments you have chosen.

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