Curtains or Drapes: Is There A Difference?
While the two are often used interchangeably, there is a difference between curtains and drapes. Curtains are generally lighter weight and unlined while drapes are pleated and lined.
But, there are actually more differences than just one being more casual and the other more formal. It comes down to one is custom made while the other is normally made in only stock sizes and limited fabrics.
Curtains are generally mass produced in stock sizes. They are made of light weight fabrics and if lined are lined with a thin stock lining. Curtains most often come with a rod pocket, grommets or tabs at the top. Each panel is approximately 1-width of fabric. One width curtain panels are normally 48 to 50” wide when flat. One pair will cover approximately 96”, but will not have the folds of a drape and may simply look like a patterned sheet on your window! If you have large windows you will need to purchase multiple panels. Plus, the stock lengths may be to short too hang your drapery rod above your window causing the curtains to look cheap or homemade.
Drapes on the other hand are custom. Everything about them from the height to the width, the fabric, the lining and the style are custom selected. Measured to perfectly fit you window, custom drapes are hung well above the window accentuating the height of the room and are made wide enough to clear the window allowing for plenty of natural light. The custom lining choices allow for the drapes to control the light when closed. Linings can filter the light or completely black it out. An important feature in bedrooms especially children’s rooms and nurseries.
Custom drapes are also available with more header options. Depending on the function and style of the room you can choose from traditional pleats or modern ripplefold, allowing your drapes to look full and “dressed” even when closed. You will also have more fabrics and trims to choose from allowing for a custom unique look specific to your home and décor style.
Perhaps the most important difference with custom drapes is you receive the guidance of a professional. Your local Budget Blinds Design Consultant measures, guides you through the fabric and lining selections, recommends the perfect drapery hardware, then measures and installs all of it for you!
Do you want to hear more good news? Budget Blinds also offers lined 1-width panels in custom lengths. So, for a window where you just want to add some color or pattern to your existing blinds, Budget Blinds has fabric and lining options for that window too!
From custom operable drapes to custom decorative panels Budget Blinds has the perfect fabric and style for your home! Schedule your free consultation today!
