Curtain design ideas for different window styles

Before you make your curtains you'll need to have some curtain design ideas in mind. And while it may seem that there are an infinite variety of designs, in fact there are just a few basic ideas on which all the various solutions depend.

But where do your start? Can you put any drapery style on any window?

On some windows you can, but others lend themselves to certain types of treatment.

Curtain design ideas for standard windows

Most of us have these types of window. They have the following features:

They are rectangular, with one or more flat panes of glass.
The frame might be simple or complex.
There's room either side and above the frame.
The window reaches to the floor, or is set up some distance.

These are the easiest type of window to treat. Here are some ideas to help you plan your own designs.

Bay window curtain design ideas

These bay window curtains are fixed in position at the top and tied back during the day.

There are quite a few curtain design ideas for bay windows, and they are not difficult to make. The hardest part is selecting and fitting the hardware, and installing any top treatments.

Begin by deciding how many drapes you want:

One curtain for each section
A pair of curtains for each section
Two curtains which draw across to cover all the windows

Or you can go for drapes as shown in this illustration. Take a look at this page for more information on bay windows.

Arch windows

These are not nearly as difficult to treat as many people imagine. One method which can be used with most of them is to completely ignore the arch. Other ways incorporate the arch into the design.

Here are some illustrations to show the different methods you can use for your arch window draperies.

Patio windows

Patio doors and windows bring a whole set of practical implications. Once you've sorted out what's possible and what isn't, it's usually quite clear what your options are.

Keep to practical solutions with curtain design ideas and your patio drapes will enhance your window while allowing free access to the outside of your home.

Often the best solution for patio windows is to have sheer curtains. They are simple to make, easy to move on a simple track, and don't spoil the view.

Country windows

This topic covers many types of window. But they all have one thing in common - you want to avoid overdressing them and making them look too grand. Here are some suggestions.

Dormer windows

These can be problematic, but here are a few simple solutions which are both practical and easy to make.

Bed drapes

This large bed canopy may be too elaborate for the average home. But the principles involved in making it are the same as for a much smaller treatment.

These custom drapes aren't often attempted by people making their own drapery.

But why not? It's no different from making drapes for ordinary windows. The making up techniques are just the same. A four poster bed with bed drapes is a great individual way of setting your bedroom off from the crowd!

Girls tend to like bed drapes, and they don't have to be complicated. Just two simple curtains draped back on either side will do the trick.

Canopy bed drapes

You'll have seen this type of treatment in hotels. Unfortunately they're often poorly implemented, with skimpy drapes and badly thought out proportions.

But when they're done properly, they're most attractive, and add a definite touch of luxury to a bedroom.