Why Curtains Are So Expensive

Let’s face it, custom curtains might not be at the top of your design dreams. They’re the bit people often skip in favour of the shiny stuff — that statement sofa, a glitzy chandelier, or some swanky coffee table. But here’s the thing: curtains are the real unsung heroes of a space. They’re not just something to keep out the neighbour’s prying eyes or soften up a room’s acoustics. They’re a style-defining move. Nail your window treatments, and you’ve got a room that speaks, maybe even sings.

The Importance of Custom Curtains

Many homeowners treat window treatments as an afterthought in their design process. However, curtains are fundamental for three key reasons:

1. Energy Efficiency: Quality window treatments can significantly reduce heat and sunlight from entering your home, protecting your furnishings and floors from fading. They also help insulate your home, lowering heating and cooling costs.
2. Privacy: Curtains create a barrier between your living space and the outside world, allowing you to enjoy natural light while maintaining your personal privacy.
3. Aesthetic Appeal: Curtains can transform a room, adding warmth and elegance. They frame windows beautifully, drawing attention to architectural details and enhancing the overall decor.

Exploring Rail/Track Types

• One of the first decisions in your curtain journey is the type of rail or track to use. This choice impacts not just aesthetics but also functionality. Here are the primary options:
  

  1. Hook Rail

  • Description: This classic option allows for easy hanging and removal of curtains. It is particularly suited for pleated curtains.
  • Considerations: Ensure you account for the weight of the material you plan to use.

  

  Source: John Lewis

  2. Eyelet Rail

  • Description: Ideal for modern, casual styles, eyelet rails use large holes in the fabric, allowing the curtain to glide smoothly.
  • Considerations: Great for lightweight materials and a sleek look.

  

  Source: Aspire Curtains & Blinds

  3. Corded Track

  • Description: This track features a cord mechanism, making it easy to open and close curtains, especially for larger or heavier drapery.
  • Considerations: Look for high-quality tracks that can support the weight of your chosen fabric.

  

  Source: Curtain Rail Supplies

  4. Wave Track

  • Description: Known for its contemporary appearance, the wave track creates soft, uniform folds.
  • Considerations: Works well with lightweight, flowing materials.

  

  Source: S-GS

  5. Lath & Fascias / Pelmet

  • Description: This option adds a decorative element to your curtains, concealing the hardware and providing a polished finish.
  • Considerations: Ideal for traditional or formal settings.

  

  Source: Merrick & Day

Before making a decision, make sure to consider the weight of your fabric, the depth of your space, and your budget.

Positioning and Length

So, where do you want your curtains to sit? Here are a few key considerations:

• Visibility: Decide if you want the rail or pole to be visible or hidden. If it’s visible, select a style that complements your decor.
• Length: Ensure the rail extends beyond the window or door frame to allow for stacking away from the light source. This not only maximises natural light but also adds visual width to the window.
• Stacking Space: Different curtain styles have varying stack-back requirements. Eyelet and wave curtains offer tighter stack-backs, while pleated curtains require more space.

Choosing the Heading Type

The heading type significantly impacts the overall look of your curtains. Pleat headings, though fuller, require more material and effort to make. Consider factors like fullness ratio and hem allowance when calculating material requirements.

Source:Moghul Interiors

You then choose the heading type.

This is where the various different names for the same type of heading come into play. Each heading can create a very different impact and also varies in level of effort/skill to make, and amount of material required.

Source: Drapery Connection

Above are the various type of pleat that you can choose (there are 6 pages of these on the Drapery Connection website) Pleat headings tend to use the most material and are fuller than some of the alternatives.  The most common heading styles are shown in the image below:

Source: Original Interiors

Fullness is determined by a ratio (normally between 1.5-3). Say the Fullness was 2, this would mean that the amount of material needed was the length of the space to fill x 2 (1:2)

Example:

Window size: 2 m

Fullness: 2

Amount of material: 2 x 2 = 4 m

The hem allowance must then be added on which is usually 6 cm.  (2 x 2 = 4 m + 0.6 m = 4.6m)

And if you were to have floor to ceiling curtains, you would be buying material say 2.4 m x 4.6 m. 

This is why curtains can be extremely expensive!

Furthermore, when it comes to buying material, if they drop (height of curtain) is more than the width of the material, it is sewn together in panels so that there is not a horizontal seam. However, if the drop is less than the width of the material, it can be railroaded. This is when the pattern (if there is one) is rotated so that the width of the material can hang vertically. This creates a more seamless hang, so it is often worth looking for double width material if you can!

Stack Back Considerations

Consider how curtains fold back against the wall. Eyelet and Wave curtains offer tight and neat stack backs, whereas pleated curtains require more space and often need tie-backs to allow sufficient light when not in use.

Eyelet Stackback:

Source: Dune Mill

Wave Stackback:

Source: Curtain Rail Suppliers

Whereas pleated curtains tend to take up more space (both width and depth) and often require a tie back to allow enough light to come through the window when not in use.

French Pleat Stackback:

Source: Pretavivre

Material Selection: Weight Matters

The type of material you choose greatly impacts both the appearance and functionality of your curtains. Consider the following:

• Weight: Lighter fabrics, such as sheers, work best with wave and cord tracks, while heavier fabrics are suitable for pleated styles.
• Patterns and Colours: Opt for timeless neutrals that enhance your decor rather than overpower it. Fabrics like linen and cotton are ideal for their durability and elegance.

Selecting the perfect curtains involves weighing various factors to achieve the desired aesthetic and functionality. With careful consideration, your curtains can elevate the ambiance of any space.

Kia Designs – Baker Street

Off-the-Rack vs. Custom Curtains

When considering window treatments, think of them as a gown. Off-the-rack options might look lovely but lack the tailored fit and craftsmanship of custom curtains.

Custom Curtains

• Pros: Tailored to your specifications, offering the perfect fit and a high level of craftsmanship. They often come with better warranties and professional installation options.

Off-the-Rack Curtains

• Cons: Mass-produced and may not fit your windows perfectly, resulting in potential gaps or bunching. Quality may vary, and they often lack the unique touch that custom options provide.

The True Cost of Curtains: Budgeting Wisely

Understanding the factors that contribute to the cost of curtains is crucial for effective budgeting:

1. Fabric Costs

• Range: Fabric can range from $30 to over $130 per meter. Remember, a 2-meter-wide window might require 6 to 10 meters of fabric to achieve the desired fullness and hem allowances.

2. Hardware

• Consideration: High-quality hardware is essential for functionality and aesthetics. Custom rods and tracks are worth the investment to avoid issues with sagging and inadequate support.

3. Installation

• Professional Help: Hiring experienced installers can save you from costly mistakes. They ensure proper installation and compliance with safety regulations.

4. Warranty

• Investment: Custom curtains often come with better warranties covering both the product and installation, offering peace of mind for your investment.

Custom curtains are an investment in your home’s style, comfort, and energy efficiency. When done right, they can transform any room from plain to polished. So next time you’re designing a space, remember: don’t leave curtains as an afterthought. Whether it’s elegant wave sheers or grand triple-pleat drapes, the right curtains can be the piece that pulls the entire room together.