CURTAIN INFORMATION FOR DIY
For ready made curtains, tracks, rods
and blinds bought from Spotlight,
Curtain Wonderland and Freedom.
CURTAIN STYLES
1. PINCH PLEAT
Pinch pleat curtain on a ROD set.
The pinch pleat heading has stiffening tape sewn in with the pleats which makes this heading very stable.
It also stacks up well when drawn open, which makes this heading perfectly suited for wider windows.
This heading is not adjustable so you must include some extra measurements into your finished width size.
If you are using a ROD set include these extra measurements:
- Measure your actual window width
- Decide on the stack back measurement and include the return
- Allow a little extra so the curtains meet in the middle
Here is an example as to how it would work out:
window width 180cm
Stack back 40cm (20cm each side)
---------
Total rod width 220cm
Return 20cm
Extra 20cm (5-20cm each side)
---------
Total curtain width 260cm
For the stack back measurement allow 2 x 15cm on each side for smaller windows or sheer curtains,
depending on the curtain style, a wider width window can have a wider stack back.
The ready-made pinch pleat curtains available in popular curtain stores come in these sizes:
Example 1. Width 120cm, 180cm, 240cm, 300cm length 221cm Spotlight
Example 2. Width 200cm, 270cm, 320cm length 213cm, 221cm, 250cm Curtain Wonderland
So for my window above I would need a 260cm width curtain or more.
There are variations of widths and lengths depending on which brand, available in sheer and block out fabrics.
The 221cm ready made curtain length is ideal for a standard ceiling height and will not need a length alteration,
for high ceilings you might be able to use a 250cm length curtain.
The 213cm length sits right on or within the window recess, which should be 212cm-213cm, (check your own window height).
If you are using a TRACK include these extra measurements
- First measure your actual window width
- then decide on the stack back measurement
- next is the overlap in the center of the track
(you only get an overlap arm on a cord drawn track)
- then also include the return back to the wall
- lastly, include a little extra so the curtains meet in the middle
Here is an example of how it would work out:
Window width 200cm
Stack back 40cm (20cm each side)
---------
Total track width 240cm
Overlap 20cm (10 cm each side)
Return 20cm (10 cm each side)
Extra 20cm (5 cm-20 cm each side]
--------
Total curtain width 300cm
You will need a 300cm width curtain or more.
To have better control over your curtains use a cord drawn track.
To get a professional result you must train your curtains, especially when you are using a pinch pleat heading on a store-bought
track, I have done a blog with the instructions of how to do this, called: Pinch pleat curtain problems.
If you like a wider stack back to let in more light make sure you keep the overall curtain in proportion to the room and to the
window, the leading edge (inside edge of the curtain) should cover the wall when the curtains are in the opened position.
There are formulas for stack backs on the internet which you can search if you require further information.
Where to find the heading you are after:
- Curtain Wonderland: Pinch pleat and Eyelet curtains in sheer and block out
- Freedom: S Fold, pencil pleat and eyelet curtains in sheer and block out
- Spotlight: S Fold, Pencil pleat, eyelet and a small range of pinch pleat and inverted pleat curtains
2. INVERTED PLEAT
The Inverted Pleat is simply a reverse of the Pinch Pleat, it needs a little more stack back space than the pinch pleat,
otherwise these pleats are very similar.
The sizes for the Inverted Pleat in store are: width 1280cm, 240cm, 300cm, length 221cm (Spotlight)
Please note that this style is being phased out in the stores, you can get it custom made.
The 221cm length is a good length for most windows.
RETURN back to the wall on a rod set.
Pinch pleat curtain on a custom made track.
The stack back is the area past the window where the curtains will hang when they are open.
OVERLAP arm on a track
The top arm will overlap the opposite arm when the curtains are closed, this makes the fabric overlap in the Centre and it will block out any light.
This is for a corded track.
Inverted pleat curtain on a ROD set.
See how the fabric forms into a neat half tube shape when the curtain is opened.
Inverted pleat on a store bought TRACK.
Custom made inverted pleats on a custom made track.
3. PENCIL PLEAT
Pencil pleat on a ROD set.
It is sold as an adjustable heading, which can lead people to believe that they can stretch the heading out wider than what is recommended, this is a very common mistake.
It is important to allow enough fullness for the curtains to look right, aim for at least 2 times the window width.
If you are planning to use a track make sure it is corded, this will make this heading easier to control when you open and close your curtains.
This is the information that is on the back of a store bought pencil pleat Packet:
The first column is the range of width the curtain can cover, if you would like to work it out at 2 x the window it will
be better to use the second column, this is the actual width of the material in the package.
Width 80 - 140cm 120cm size window x 2 = 240cm
Width 140 - 220cm 180cm size window x 2 = 360cm
Width 220 - 270cm 240cm size window x 2 = 480cm
width 270 - 340cm 300cm size window x 2 = 600cm
width 340 - 410cm
Lengths: 213cm, 221cm, 250cm, 270cm (he 221cm length is a good length for most windows).
This heading can be a lot of work if you are installing it on a larger window.
To make your store-bought pencil pleat curtains look fabulous you need to put some time and effort into dressing
your curtains.
Here are some tips:
- Iron your curtains, read the care instructions so that you have your iron on the correct heat setting and iron fabric side.
- Pull the strings, arrange the pleats evenly so that the curtain is the correct width for your window
(make sure you tie off one end first so that you don't pull the strings out), for a neater result gather the excess of the strings
to the outside of each curtain.
- Also include the returns to give you a neat finish on each side of the curtains.
- To support the pleat use a hook every 9-12cm in the heading tape.
- Hang them up and then train your curtains into even folds to make them look good.
- Take out any excess track runners as they will take up valuable stack back space, (I leave just one or two spares on each side).
- IMPORTANT: Be sure to tidy up ALL strings for safety purposes. WARNING: Curtain and blind cords have caused the death
of young children and must be installed so that they are not a strangulation hazard. You must follow the installation
instructions carefully.
You can buy this style in the magic drape from Spotlight and as a finished curtain from different stores around Perth.
If you are planning to sew your own magic drape curtains keep in mind that the triple weave fabrics are more difficult to sew than the block out fabrics. Tip: use more pins to keep the fabric in shape.
How to use a pencil pleat curtain on a track:
The pencil pleat sits under the custom made track.
The pencil pleat sits in front of the store bought track.
4. EYELET CURTAIN
Eyelet curtains can ONLY be put on a ROD.
The eyelet curtain is very user-friendly, It has a good drape, it stacks back well, it glides easily across the rod, eyelet curtains can look good in a patterned fabric and this heading is the best budget wise.
It is very easy to install, See my blog which has tips to help you do it correctly
If I have any complaints about this style it will be that you have to arrange the pleats evenly when you open and
close your curtains.
This heading does not take up a lot of stack back space, keep this in mind when you hang it.
There are three ways in which the Eyelet heading is available:
1. Magic Drape ( Spotlight)
The Magic drape is a curtain that is continuous in width and already has the eyelets in the top, you must sew up
the hems yourself, you buy the number of metres that you need for your window width.
If sewing it yourself always have an even number of rings.
length: 230 cm, 235 cm, 240cm, 250cm and 260cm depending on different brands
I am also happy to sew up the hems for you, custom hems gives you a custom look.
To organize this you will need to:
- Call or text me on 0437 939 266 and ask me when I can do the work
- Measure your window width
- choose a magic drape with enough length, 235cm and over so that you can have a decent hem in it
- Ask the staff at the store to work out your fabric requirements
- Bring it to me
- Payment and pick it up when ready
2. Ready-Made (Spotlight, Freedom, Curtain Wonderland, Bunnings, etc.).
You can also buy it in a ready-made, sizes depend on the different brands.
Ready-made widths are 120cm, 140cm, 165cm, 200cm each, this is the actual panel size, they can be sold individually, if so you will need to buy two packets, keep an eye on this.
They can be great for use on smaller windows or as side drapes, length 221- 223cm or 250cm (Curtain Wonderland).
Or otherwise 80 - 140cm, 140 - 220cm, 220 - 270cm, 270 - 340cm, 340 - 410cm a pair, this is the range of width
it can cover, (Spotlight).
Lengths: 223cm (standard length) or 250cm (length alterations will be needed for a standard height ceiling).
The fullness I like for this heading is 1.6 - 1.8 times the window width.
Buy the rod in the 19 - 25mm diameter size as the eyelet looks skimpy on a 16mm diameter rod.
3. Custom Made
5. S WAVE CURTAINS
Sheer S Wave Curtains in front of roller blinds
S wave Curtains are ultra-modern, they are usually made in a sheer fabric which is continuous in width, which means there will be no vertical seaming.
This style is great for very wide windows as it stacks up very neatly.
It takes up more stack back space than a pinch pleat curtain, (usually a fourth of the total track measurement),
most of the time that will not matter because the curtain will stay in a closed position especially if it is in a sheer fabric like the example above on the left, if you are using a block out fabric allow for extra stack back.
The latest trend is to have roller blinds fitted in the window recess which give privacy and block out from the sun
and to have Sheer s wave Curtains to finish the look.
if you need more insulation or light control in your home use a block out s wave curtain instead.
Freedom recently brought out the first s wave curtains available in-store, with single or double tracks, the tracks are not corded.
The curtains come in a sheer, block out or lining fabric, use separately or together as a double layer.
Width 140cm, 180cm, 220cm, 280cm, 360cm length 280cm.
The two larger sizes (280cm, 360cm) come with a split track and a track joiner.
All these sizes are set up as a one way draw, you can make it into a centre close by using two tracks, use a track joiner
and use two curtains to match the track sizes.
You will need a length alteration for these curtains, hemming tape is included if you are confident to do the alterations yourself.
Spotlight has a range of S wave curtains now, single or double track, not corded, in a sheer or block out fabric.
Width 140cm, 180cm, 210cm, 240cm Length 250cm.
These curtains come as a centre close.
They will not need a length alteration if your ceiling height is 253cm to the cornice.
Call me if you like me to alter the length of these curtains.
Check out my blog about the difference in quality between custom made and ready made S Wave curtains.
OTHER PRODUCTS FOR SALE IN STORE
SHEER CURTAINS
You can buy Sheer Curtains in two different ways.
Ready to hang sheers:
* Eyelet - length 223cm
* Pencil pleat - length 213cm or 221cm.
* Rod pocket - length 213cm or 221cm.
* Tab top - length 213cm or 221cm.
* Concealed tab top - length 213cm or 221cm.
* Tie top - length 213cm.
These sheers usually have a width of 120cm or 140cm.
There are some brands in the rod pocket curtains which go up to 300cm, 500cm or 700cm.
Use a block out rod pocket curtain only on smaller windows, to clear the window use tiebacks.
Support a larger sheer rod pocket curtain every 150cm with a bracket.
You can have the fullness of the width between 2 times and 2.5 times the window,
a thicker sheer fabric will not need as much fullness as a thin sheer fabric.
Spotlight has a display to show you the difference in fullness in their curtain section, go and check it out, or look on-line.
Continuous sheers:
These are continuous in width, the shop assistant will cut it for you at the width you need ( Spotlight).
It usually comes in a pencil pleat heading which can be used as a rod pocket as well, (check the heading if it includes these
two options).
Depending on what style you choose, the length in the store is:
69cm, 91cm, 107cm, 122cm, 137cm, 160cm , 183cm, 213cm, 221cm, 229cm, 244cm
Sheers on a ROD set, heading used as a Pencil Pleat.
On a CONDUIT rod with a spring bracket or a muslin bracket, heading used as a Rod Pocket.
Finished side hems on a sheer.
Ready made track.
SERIES 65, CHADWICK CUSTOM MADE TRACK.
TRACKS
Using a track results in a more streamlined effect, the track has overhead support brackets so it can go a wider distance than a rod.
Store bought tracks come in these sizes:
122-213cm, 167-305cm, 180 - 300cm, 213 - 396cm, 280 - 500cm.
Curtain wonderland, 63 - 114cm,114 - 205cm, 160 - 297cm, 205 - 388cm in a hand drawn track.
Ready made tracks have a join, joins can be trouble some, Custom made tracks do not have a join.
Curtain Wonderland has a bendable track, for pinch pleat or pencil pleat curtains.
Get a corded track to help keep the fabric clean and to have more control over the opening and closing of your curtain.
Custom made tracks can also come with automation.
If you have a corner or bay window it is best to get a custom made track, that way the curtain will hang properly in the space.
Custom made tracks are more expensive but it is totally worth the money you put into it.
Join in the right spot supported by the centre bracket.
ROD SET
Rod sets are designed to be put on show and are part of your overall display.
A rod set comes with a rod, rings, 3 brackets and 2 finials.
If you want a certain colour or style have a look on the internet, go to the image page for curtain rod sets.
Spotlight has a good range of rod sets, from 29-32mm, 22-25mm,19-22mm and 16mm in diameter, chunky to thin in size.
Most of their rod sets are extendable, the standard length sizes are mainly 120-210cm, 165-300cm, some of the newer
styles go up to 365-400cm.
You can also buy rod components separately rods, brackets, rings and finials, 16mm and 19mm diameter,
150, 200, 250, 300cm in length (Spotlight).
Curtain Wonderland also has some lovely rod sets, different thicknesses.
The rings are not included in their sets, with one set you also have to buy the finials separately.
Sizes 120-210cm, 165-300cm, 220-400cm.
If it is possible support the join of an extendable rod set on the centre bracket, if you have the join along the track where
the rings go then the rings can get hooked on the join, this is very annoying if you draw the curtains every day.
You will have to cut the rod with a grinder or drop saw., if that is to difficult then live with the join.
(make sure you lay out your track on the floor and plan if it will work, you don't want to cut the rod to short).
Make sure you use the screws that keep the rod in place, because it can easily come undone and then the rod will fall
down every time you draw your curtains.
Wood rod sets come in these sizes:
33 mm diameter, length 150cm, 200cm, 250cm, 300cm, 350cm..
You can buy rod sets in the stores that extends up to 400 cm width but the widest ready made pinch pleat curtain for sale
only goes up to 320cm, the reason being that the rod needs to be supported every 150cm-175cm otherwise the rod could
sag, this is especially true for a heavier curtain or a lined curtain, you could perhaps use a sheer or a light weight eyelet
curtain on a rod 4m wide.
If you want to buy ready-made rod sets for a very wide window then you can join the sets, but you will need to use multiple panels, (see the pictures below) make sure you have a bracket every 150cm -200cm.
Consider the weight of the curtain and the thickness of the rod, the thinnest rod of 16 mm diameter needs a support every 150cm (only use this diameter rod with a sheer curtain), thicker rods can go a wider distance.
Make sure every rod join is supported by a bracket, you can use a rod joiner with some rod sets for extra stability.
Multiple panels may work on some windows.
For the overall look and support of the curtain it is important to match the curtains to the rod, use light weight rods for light weight curtains and thicker rods or custom made tracks to support heavier curtains.
Where to get your rod sets from:
If you would like them right away check out Spotlight or curtain wonderland, IKEA and other outlets
Multiple panels
READY MADE BLINDS (IN-STORE OR ONLINE ONLY)...
ROLLER BLIND
The latest look in curtaining is installing a roller blind for privacy and blocking out the sun and then to use an S wave heading in a sheer curtain to add another layer to your decor.
Roller blinds are a perfect quick-fix solution for a new house, it solves your privacy issues and it blocks out the harsh sun, you can then always later on add block out or sheer curtains.
They works well in awkward or small windows and they are practical for a kitchen or bathroom window.
If you have the full sun in a window it can also give you added protection against the UV rays, protecting your curtains, flooring and furniture against fading.
There are many ready-made roller blinds on the market, some have a patterned look and others are block out,
You can also get a day and night roller blind which has a layer of sheer and a layer of block out fabric.
These are the sizes you can get in the ready made blinds:
width: 60cm, 90cm, 120cm, 150cm, 180cm, 210cm, 240cm, 270cm, 300cm
length: 240cm, 250cm
There is one consideration you need to think of with roller blinds, you will have a small gap on the two sides if you have an inside mount.
If you need it to be more block out e.g. in a bedroom, then you might like to have a curtain as an extra layer or
perhaps you can do an outside mount or you can use some side drapes.
There are some new products coming on the market which have the roller blind running inside a panel on the sides, this ensures the blind to be completely block out.
Go online and have a look at the different ranges and sizes you can buy.
You can also do blinds to your window measurements on line, it will then get delivered to your house.
For custom made roller blinds call a blind company for a free measure and quote, they can then show you their full range of different blinds available, ask about the difference in quality and price between a cheaper blind fabric and a fabric that is made for our Australian conditions and ask how long the warranty is on the fabrics you have selected.
Ready made sizes:
Day/night roller blind, width 60cm, 90cm, 120cm, 150cm, 180cm, 210cm
length 210cm.
You can also buy a roller blind for an outside window, which is UV protected and blocks out 90% of light, it is also waterproof.
width 150cm, 180cm, 210cm, 240cm, length 180cm.
You can alter the width on an ordinary roller blind if you're a bit handy, Spotlight offers a cutting service on most of their roller blinds.
For blind alterations and installations call: The Perth Blindman on: 0422 923 850 Website: www.tmbblinds.com
Photos for illustration purposes only.
Day and night roller blinds have a double layer of blind and sheer.
Roller blind used as an extra layer with curtains.
The curtains are only used for side drapes.
ROMAN BLIND
Roman blinds give your window some depth at the top. I would not use it on a sliding door window as the top would get in the way.
Ready made sizes are, width 60cm, 90cm, 120cm, 150cm, 180cm,
length 150cm or 210cm.
You can also get day/night roman blinds, these blinds come in two layers, one sheer and one block out fabric, it comes in these sizes,
width 90cm, 120cm, 150cm, 180cm, 210cm, length 210cm.
Photos for illustration purposes only.
Day/night roman blinds.
Roman blind
VENETIAN BLIND
You can use the Venetian blind in the same way as the roller blind but it takes up more window space than a roller blind when it is pulled up, for this reason I would not use them in front of a sliding door,
they can also collect more dirt/dust than a roller blind, for this reason I would not use them on a
kitchen window.
It comes in an aluminium or wood finish.
You cannot alter an aluminium venetian blind yourself so get these custom made if you need an inside mount.
Ready made sizes are,
Width 60cm, 90cm, 120cm, 150cm, 180cm, 210cm, 240cm,270cm length 150cm, 210cm.
Curtain Wonderland carries these sizes:
Width 45cm, 75cm, 105cm, 135cm, 150cm, 165cm, 195cm, 225cm, 240cm, Length 137cm, 225cm.
25mm Aluminium Venetian Blinds
Width 60cm, 210cm
Length 150cm, 210cm
Get the Aluminium blinds professionally cut at Spotlight.
Venetian blind.
TIMBER VENETIAN BLIND
Same information as the Venetian blind.
Spotlight carry these sizes:
Width 60cm, 90cm, 120cm, 150cm, 180cm, 210cm, 240cm Length 137cm, 210cm.
Curtain wonderland carry these sizes:
Width 45cm, 75cm, 105cm, 135cm, 165cm, 195cm, 225cm, 240cm, length 137cm, 225cm.
It comes in several different timbers colours.
VERTICAL BLIND
Vertical blinds are often used in new houses for instant privacy and block out from the sun.
They are easy to care for and you can now get vertical blinds without the cords at the bottom.
Practical for sliding doors.
The ready mades come in these sizes, width 180cm, 210cm, 240cm.
Length 213cm, they fit within the window recess.
Panel track system
Panel track systems is great for a modern look, patterned fabric are show of to it's full potential.
It can however take up a lot of stack back space, so it is not suitable if you want to maximize your view.
Ready made sizes are
4 channel track 200cm width
5 channel track 250cm width
6 channel track 300cm width
Length 240cm
Each panel is 55cm wide.
FABRICS
Block out fabrics have a layer of polyester foam sprayed onto it, which has a various degree of blackout,
1, 2, 3, 4 pass, the more layers it has the thicker the fabric becomes.
These fabrics are suitable to be made into curtains.
The extra coating can be great for extra insulation keeping your house cooler in summer and warmer in winter.
Uncoated fabrics are nice for a see-through look, use them with a blind for privacy or get them sewn up with an uncoated lining for a softer look than a block out fabric.
When you choose your fabric have a feel of it, be aware that if the fabric is very stiff it will not drape well, look for a more supple fabric.
Curtain Drop
A drop is a measurement from the top of the track to the desired length.
The fabric will be cut in drops and joined up vertically to make up the width that is needed.
The fabric comes in 120cm, 135cm, 145cm or 150cm widths in the stores.
Continuous Fabric
The fabric runs horizontally, you can get it cut at the width that you need, magic drape and sheers usually come this way.
Pattern Match Fabrics
You need to be aware that if you buy a fabric with a pattern match that it will cost more because of the pattern will need to be matched along the curtain length.
Fabric Care
When you have a coated fabric be very careful about how you launder it. The coating can easily be damaged.
Read your fabric care label carefully and follow the instructions to a tee!
If you are sewing your own block out curtains keep in mind that once you pin the fabric the pin mark will stay,
be careful where you place yours pins.
Before you launder a fabric keep in mind that you will be removing some of the shine of the fabric, You may be able to
spot clean it or give it a vacuum.
Check the care label.
if you are buying fabric from the store, ask the staff to print you out a fabric care label as it is important to have this information.
Some fabrics can fade easily, keep an eye on the curtains that hang on a window with the full sun on it, you might need
an extra layer to protect your curtains, e.g. a blind, window tinting or roller shutters might be a good investment.
Dressing your window
It is important to spend a bit of time on dressing your window.
First unpack all your ready-made rods/tracks, read the instructions so you do the right job the first time.
To have a neater finish iron your curtains, read the care label for your curtains first to see what setting your
iron should be on (you can only iron coated fabrics on the fabric side).
The curtain will need to be installed onto a rod or track which can have an overlap arm and a return, the curtains will need to
be pleated into even folds and bound for several days, if you spend some time on it you can have great results.
CUSTOM MADE
You will not regret getting custom made curtains or blinds, as with most things custom made is still the best option, overall the curtains/ blinds will fit your window perfectly, the overall look is superior and you won't have any problems with the rods and tracks.
You will have a lot of fabric choices, I find that ready made curtains are usually made from plain basic materials, if you are after a certain colour/ pattern or a uncoated fabric with a lining behind it you will need to get it custom made.
For very high/ wide windows you will need the get the curtains/ blinds custom made.
If you would like blinds then get a free measure and quote from a blind company and compare the price with the ready-made
blinds, have a think about whether it will be worth it to go ready-made.
It is easier to get custom made and with a sale on it can be more affordable, they will then also install.
All the blinds in the above examples can be custom made to fit your windows, you will also have the option of an automation with a remote control.
READY MADE
Plan your window with the correct information, write down your actual window size, choose a heading you like,
add extra measurements e.g. stack back etc., choose a rod set or track, keep an eye out for obstructions around the
window and make a plan of how you might deal with it.
When you go out to buy ready-made curtains try to look for the best quality you can afford.
When you use block out ready made curtains on a sunny window you might need to consider a roller blind to protect the curtain
from the harsh sun rays.
When you go out shopping for ready-made window coverings you need to be flexible, you will not always be able to get the colors
or fabric thickness you like.
The three reason's why you might choose ready made curtains:
- it can be bought in the shop right away so there are no lengthy waits to get curtains
- You are doing up the house/ unit for resale
- You are on a strict budget
Recently I have decided to do alterations of curtains only.
go to the alterations page for the pricelist.
I will be running a blog, check it out for additional articles about curtains.
I react best to text messages, so if you cannot get hold of me by phone be sure to leave a text
or alternatively send me an email.
Email: nustylecurtains@gmail.com
Kind regards,
Sharon
0437 939 266
Out of the packet eyelet curtains
Eyelet after ironing gives a more professional look