Step 1
First take the measurements of your window, these need to be as accurate as possible to ensure the perfect finish. Refer to the How to Measure Curtains guide for full details.
Step 2
Choose between Ready Made Curtains or Made to Measure Curtains.
Ready Made Curtains are the lowest cost option, they are mass produced and bag lined. Available in a range of sizes, colours and styles, often offering the option to purchase matching cushion covers and tiebacks.
Take care when purchasing more than one pair of curtains as variances in colour are often found between pairs, where possible ask the retailer to colour match the pairs of curtains.
Please also note that retailers rarely guarantee exact sizes so check the small print to see the tolerance that they deem acceptable.
Ready Made Curtains are generally recommended when redecorating on a low budget or for first homes.
Made to Measure Curtains are the next step up from Ready Made Curtains, as the name states this option is made to your specific size and requirements.
Made to measure curtain fabrics offer an almost endless array of colours, designs and styles.
When purchasing Made to Measure Curtains online it is extremely important to ascertain whether you are being quoted for a machine made curtain or a handmade curtain. Handmade curtains offer a far higher quality finish than that off their machine made counterparts. Handmade curtains will often include stitched in corner weights to the lower corner of the curtains to ensure they hang to perfection.
Step 3
Select the curtain heading that you desire, typical curtain headings include:
- Pencil Pleat Headings
- Tab Top Heading
- Eyelet Headings
- Double Pinch Pleat Headings
- Triple Pinch Pleat Headings
Please refer to Choosing Your Curtain Heading for a more in depth overview of each option, including images.
Step 4
When purchasing online always check whether delivery is included. Curtains are weighty items, therefore additional delivery charges can quickly mount up.
Step 5
Check whether all the relevant accessories are included; i.e. Curtain Hooks. Once again having to purchase these additional extras can mount up making what appeared to be the cheapest option the most expensive.
Step 6
It is always advised to request samples, internet images are only ever indicative of the fabric, in reality colours can be slightly different. Furthermore, an image cannot portrait the weight and feel of the fabric.
Finally
If you have any queries prior to your purchase then contact the retailer, the level of service you receive over the phone and the level of knowledge / experience available can be a good indication of the level of quality and service you are likely to receive.
Remember the cheapest option is not always the best, do your research first and you will enjoy many years of beautiful curtains contributing to the ambiance of your room.
Should you have any queries regarding the purchase of you curtains please do not hesitate to contact us and we will be delighted to assist you further.