Curtains are usually of lightweight, unlined fabric that filters and diffuse light. Curtains are used either alone or under drapery, hung next to the glass.
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Glass curtains, often called sheers, are of thin or semisheer fabrics and hang closet to the glass.
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Sash curtains are a type of glass curtain hung on the window sash. They can be stretched taut between rods at the top and bottom of window sashes or hung in loose folds. They are often used on doors that contain windows.
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Cafe Curtains are typically pleated, and mounted to either the inside or outside of a window frame. Because cafe curtains attach to the frame at both the top and bottom, they are an excellent choice for adding privacy.
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Tab-top Curtains are flat curtain panels that hang from a decorative rod by tabs (which can be of varying lengths). Tab-top curtains tend to be more casual than other types of curtains and are often mounted outside the window frame.
- Draw curtains usually of translucent or light weight opaque fabrics, are mounted on traverse rods which provide pulley mechanism that allows the curtain to be drawn or pulled open and closed. In the past, draw curtains were hung between glass curtains and draperies; today they are more often used alone.
- Cottage curtains, also called Dutch curtains, are a combination of a sash curtain and a second curtain for the upper part of the window. For upper curtain, measure from bottom of top row to four to six inches below sash curtain, or more where the curtain is to tie back.
- Casement curtains are for windows that open in and out. Two rods are used, top and bottom, measurements taken from bottom of top rod to top of bottom rod. Casing and heading are usually used top and bottom. Curtains are made of open-weave fabric usually more opaque than a sheer or a glass curtain. They may be used alone or under drapery and may also be mounted on traverse rods.
- Tie backs: The easiest tie back to make is a band about 4 x 12 inches, folded in half lengthwise, outside together, and stitched at the short ends. Trim seams, then turn to right side, turn in raw edges and top stitch all around. For tie back with ruffle on two or three sides, cut out two pieces for the band, turn in raw edges all around and insert ruffle between turned edges. Baste carefully and top stitch
- Tab tops are very popular, and they highlight the decorative hardware used to hang them. Tab top curtains are available in valances, café style, and drapes and can be used in every room of the house.
- Tiers, also called café curtains, come in several different styles. They are short in length and are often used in kitchens and baths. Tiers cover the lower half of the window using a tension rod and can be beautifully combined with a swag, valance or top tier
- Full-length rod-pocket or pole-top panels are a mainstay in soft treatments and can be constructed with different sized pockets to accommodate varying rod styles. They can hang straight or be tied back using fabric ties or decorative hardware, depending upon the look and function you want
Top Treatment Swags and Scarves Swags and scarves add a striking accent to curtains. Layering a printed swag or scarf over coordinating solid curtains will bring all of the colors of your room together to create a romantic focal point. If privacy is not an issue, swags and scarves can be hung alone on a rod or through a sconce for a distinctive look.
Valance hangs across the top of a window, usually covering a third of the window glass. Often used to hide drapery hardware, it can be draped, gathered, or pleated. Valances can be used with or without a curtain underneath
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