Why is that some people have sheets on their windows instead of something a little more pleasing? The intent is for the sheet to stay up for a very short time until a style is decided or a little money saved up to purchase 'THE' curtain. Next thing you know, you're moving 5-10 years later and the sheet is still up. Even if the style isn't decided there are simple and affordable options out there that are so much better that an old bed sheet.
Not to diminish the importance of window treatments by any means, but the fact remains, they are just curtains. They don’t have to be permanent, they can be replaced, they don’t have to cost a fortune and they don’t have to judge you as a home based designer.
Dressing your windows is like painting a room. You can transform the whole look very quickly, and have it be affordable. Yet, many people are still afraid to try. Some would rather have sheets on their windows and fading paint on their walls instead of trying something new.
If cost is an issue, here are a few tips to help minimize the expense of window treatments. Stay with ready made options. Know the return policy of the establishment you are purchasing from before buying. Go with something neutral, so if you change your décor, you can keep your curtains. Buy curtains on sale or those that have been discontinued. Sometimes, you can even find window treatments in a thrift store. They may not be the best quality or “THE” curtain, but… they can be a great start to overcoming the fear of dressing your windows. As FDR put it, “The only thing we have to fear is fear itself”. Once you get past that, anything’s possible. Really… anything’s better than a sheet or nothing at all, especially when privacy is an issue.
Dressing your windows can and should be fun. You won’t know unless you try. If it looks horrible, change it! Curtains are not permanent. You will almost certainly know as soon as you put them up if they work for you, or not. You can be bold and really bring something to your décor, or you can be safe and choose something neutral. You can even create drama and elegance. Using color and pattern, as well as fullness and length is a great way to revive a dreary look with minimal expense.
Before starting, first try to imagine how you’d like your windows to look. If your design involves multiple layers, start with the first layer, be it shades, blinds or sheers. The easiest place to start is the foundation. You can opt for safe tones of white or ivory tone, or you can go a little bolder and add some color or embroidery. Live with your first layer for a while, then build outward. If you can only imagine one or two layers, look at items that offer color and pattern, even a grommet topcan transform the look. Before you know it, your creative juices will start to flow and you’ll be getting more ideas than you know what to do with.
Remember: have fun, start small, and find affordable options.
As a dear industry colleague of mine always says, “People, it’s only Curtains”!
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