No, curtains do not necessarily need to touch the floor. Many people choose to hang curtains that reach to the floor for aesthetic reasons, but this is not always necessary. Hanging curtains slightly above the floor can be a great way to let in more natural light and make the windows appear larger.
Another option is to choose shorter curtains that stop at the window sill. The important thing is to make sure that the curtains are hanging high enough to cover the window and to ensure that the hardware used to hang them is secure.
It’s also important to consider the length of the curtains – if the curtains are too short or too long for the window, it can create an unbalanced look. Ultimately, the right length of curtains for your room depends on your preference and the style of the room.
How far should curtains be off the floor?
Ideally, curtains should be positioned just above the floor, leaving a small gap of 1/2 inch to 1 inch off the floor. This small gap allows the curtains to clear the floor, yet still hang in a neat way.
Alternatively, curtains can be hung higher to create the illusion of taller windows and ceilings. In this instance, they should be hung 6″ to 8″ off the floor. If you’re struggling to measure accurately, hang the curtains at a height that still allows the curtains to reach the window ledge or moulding.
This will ensure that the curtains reach the floor in a neat, presentable way. Ultimately, the best position for your curtains will depend upon several factors, such as the size and height of your window, and the type of curtain you’re using.
It’s best to do some research or get in contact with a professional to ensure you choose the best size and style for your home.
Do longer curtains make a room look bigger?
In some cases, longer curtains can help create an illusion of space and make a room look bigger. Since curtains are made from lightweight fabrics, longer curtains are capable of adding an airy look to a room.
Light, tall curtains provide a sense of spaciousness that shorter ones don’t. Also, by extending the curtains all the way to the floor or just above, you are essentially elevating the visual height of the room, making it appear larger.
However, this doesn’t always work. If you have a low ceiling, long curtains that hang to the floor can make the room feel even smaller, so be sure to take that into account.
Is it OK to put long curtains on short windows?
Yes, it is possible to put long curtains on short windows, but it depends on the style, type, and color of the window and curtain. Long curtains, such as floor-length panels, create a dramatic look on tall windows, but the effect can be equally stunning on a smaller window.
If the proportions are handled correctly, the room will have a dramatic, high-end look that will instantly upgrade the space.
On the other hand, it’s important to choose curtains that fit the scale of the window. If the curtains are too long, they will overpower the window and look unbalanced. It’s also important to hang the curtains far enough away from the windowsill that they don’t bunch up and obscure the view.
When working with short windows, consider lighter fabrics and simple designs that won’t overpower the room. Also, consider high-contrast details such as contrast hem tape or contrast fabric back panel that introduce interest into the design.
Lastly, drum shades look great on small windows, as they provide a simple, streamlined way of dressing the window without taking up too much space.
Is it OK for curtains to puddle?
Yes, it is OK for curtains to puddle, although it is generally considered more attractive if they are hung with a hem just above the floor. Puddling is when the curtains hang so that the fabric pools on the floor, creating a kind of wave-like effect.
It can add a luxurious, dramatic touch to the room, so it’s a popular choice for formal curtains. However, this style can also collect dust and dirt more quickly than other curtain hanging options, so if you choose a puddled curtain you will need to clean them more often.
Also, keep in mind that different fabrics will look different when puddled, so if you are thinking of having puddled curtains it is important to consider the kind of fabric you are using.
How long should puddled curtains be?
Puddled curtains should be long enough to gently follow the lines of the floor and gently brush against the ground once the curtains are hung. As a general rule, these curtains should be at least 2 inches longer than the height of the window in order to achieve the correct look.
If you are buying ready-made curtains, look for “puddled” or “extra long” length in the product description. The amount of gathering or draping can vary depending on your personal preference and the design of the room.
For instance, in more formal or traditional settings, the puddled curtains may need more folds or gathers while in a minimalist space they may only have a light drape. Ultimately, the length of your puddled curtains should be determined by what looks best in your interior design and matches the proportions of the room.
How low should curtains hang below window sill?
The ideal length for curtains hung below the window sill will vary depending on the size and shape of the window, as well as your personal preference and style of décor. Generally, curtains should hang a few inches below the sill, enough so as to provide some protection against draft and allow light to be easily managed.
For tall windows, you should hang the curtains just inside the frame, so they don’t reach the floor. That way, the light will still be able to pass through the windows and the curtains won’t overwhelm the room or block too much natural light.
For standard-sized windows, you should hang the curtains just below the sill, so they can still cover the entire window in a streamlined look. If you have small windows, consider hanging the curtains just above the sill.
This will create more of a cozy atmosphere, while also helping to make the windows appear larger. Ultimately, the length of curtains you decide to hang will depend on the style of your décor, size of the window, and personal preference.
What Colour curtains are for a bedroom?
The color of curtains for a bedroom largely depends on the individual’s preference and the existing decor of the room. Generally, neutral colors create a relaxing environment, so many people opt for colors such as cream, beige, taupe, or gray.
Other calming colors such as pale blues, lavenders, and sage greens can make a space look more tranquil as well. Bright colors, such as red, purple, turquoise, or yellow can also work for a bedroom, as long as the colors are balanced with neutral colors or whites to create a visual contrast.
The choice ultimately depends on the effect desired and the colors already in the bedroom. For example, those with a mostly red bedroom may opt to add a deep brown or forest green accent to balance the red.
Patterned curtains can also add a visual pop to the room while still being neutral enough to not overpower the colors in the space. For a modern look consider incorporating curtains with stripes or ombre panels.
Additionally, sheer curtains can lend a delicate and romantic atmosphere, while heavier or blackout curtains can create a more cozy atmosphere.
How do you determine how long curtains should be?
When it comes to determining how long curtains should be, the most important factor to consider is the size of the window. For aesthetically pleasing, full-length curtains, you’ll want curtains that are 1 ½ to 2 times the width of the window, so if your window is, say, 48 inches wide, you’d choose curtains that measure somewhere between 72-96 inches wide.
If you’re looking for a more tailored look, opt for shorter curtains that simply cover the window opening and don’t drag on the floor. You should also take into account whether or not the window is flush against the ceiling or has a valance or other treatment on top, as this will impact the length of your curtains.
Add to that any windowsill or in-wall shelves that can interfere with the length of the curtains, and you’ll have a better idea of how long your curtains should be.
Can curtains be a few inches off the floor?
Yes, curtains can be a few inches off the floor if that is the desired look. However, it is generally recommended that they should break on the floor (at least 1-2 inches) to create a more polished and finished look.
Depending on how far off the floor you want to hang your curtains, you may need to add curtain panels or an additional layer of fabric to lengthen them. Additionally, if you are hanging curtains in a high-traffic area, it’s best to keep them at least 6 inches off the ground to reduce wear and tear.
How many inches should a curtain hem be?
The ideal length for a curtain hem varies depending on the intended purpose and aesthetic of the specific curtain. Generally, for a minimalistic look and when hanging curtains as a room divider, the ideal hem length is between 1-1.5 inches.
When used in a standard fashion to cover a window, the hem should be between 2-3 inches. For a floor-length look, it is best to have a 4-5 inch hem. However, the best approach is to hang the curtains first and then determine if the hem length is right for the desired look.
If needed, you can always adjust the hem length after the curtains have been hung.
What width should my curtains be?
When determining the optimal width of your curtains, the size of the windows should be taken into account. Generally, curtains should measure two times the width of the window frame from left to right.
To create an illusion of a larger window and an open, airy feel, select curtains that are at least one and a half times the width of the window frame.
Also, keep in mind that more fullness will give your curtains a grander look and feel. Depending on the type and amount of fabric you are using, select curtains that are one and a half to two times the width of the window frame.
To create a full, luxurious look, increase the width to two and a half times the window frame width.
For windows that are wider than standard, you’ll need to purchase extra wide curtains. These wider curtains can either be hung with a wider curtain rod or two rods and two wider panels. When two rods are used, the curtains can be pulled open in the center to provide a more dramatic, finished look.
Additionally, you may want to heed the general rule of thumb that heavier materials, such as damask, require more fullness for a more luxurious look and feel. When shopping for heavier fabrics, double the width of the window frame when selecting the curtains you will hang.
Finally, you can also choose the desired panel length of your curtains. Curtains should be at least one and a half times as long as the window frame’s height. For a more formal or luxurious look, floor-length curtains might be appropriate.
How do curtain measurements work?
Curtain measurements are quite simple and straightforward. The measurements you need to take will depend on how you plan to hang them, either on a curtain rod or on a track or pole.
If you are hanging cancellations or tab-tops you will need the full width of the pole or curtain track, which should be measured from the ‘face of the connection’ to the other ‘face of the connection’.
This will be the width of fabric you need to order.
If you are hanging eyelet curtains you need to measure the distance from the rings on one side to the rings on the other side of the pole/track to get the full width of the pole, which should be the same as your curtains.
You must also measure the drop of your curtains. This means measuring the distance from your pole or track to where you want the hem of your curtains to be.
Finally, you need to decide on how much fullness or gathering you would like. Generally, you will order between 1 1/2 and 2 1/2 times the pole or track width, depending on the style, pattern and amount of fabric you choose.
Commonly, measurements are taken in centimetres – but it all depends on where you order your curtains. Always double-check by looking at the product details before clicking ‘buy’.
What widths do curtain panels come in?
Curtain panels come in a range of widths, depending on where they are sold. Most department stores and home decor websites offer standard sizes such as 24, 36, 48, 54, 63, 72, 84, 95, and 108 inches.
Many of these panels also come in extra-wide widths of 120, 144, and even 180 inches.
If these sizes do not fit your window size, custom-made curtains are available. You can either provide the curtain fabric and measurements or have a professional measure your window and provide the fabric.
Finally, it’s possible to make a curtain from a flat sheet. Simply hang the sheet over a curtain rod, pleat or gather it until it fits the window, and finish it off with tabs or a rod pocket. With careful selection of fabric and pattern, you’ll end up with a unique, custom-made curtain that fits your window perfectly.