Free Lesson on How to Pick Out Drapes Things You'll Need: Tape measure Color palette strips from paint store (optional)

Step 1 Determine the right length. Measure your window with a tape measure before heading to the store. Step 2 Decide on the type of drapes, whether pull, curtain or pleated. Pull drapes hang loose on either side of the window and need to be pulled back and secured with a drapery tie-back in order to let light in. Curtain drapes run smoothly on a bar when pulled. They stay in place wherever they are pulled to, allowing light to come in through the uncovered window without the extra use of a tie-back. Pleated drapes hang down over the window in one full sheet, similar to a blind. These usually have two or three strings or ties that are attached and secure the bottom of the drape when you wish to let light in. Step 3 Choose fabric type. The fabric you choose will depend on the decoration style of your room. Lace drapes and embroidered drapes work best in old-fashioned rooms or country-style kitchens. Cotton, sheer synthetics, canvas, chenille and velvet are popular drape fabrics; which one you use depends on your taste and need. If the purpose of your drapes is to block the light and keep in the heat, then you will need a heavier, more dense or layered fabric. For modern decorating style, canvas, sheer synthetic or cotton drapes are your best option. Step 4 Choose the colors and patterns to complement the other elements in the room. The color of your drapes is the most important element in choosing drapes. Match hues and tones to complement each other. Collect paint palette strips from the paint section of a hardware store to see how to match colors to complement each other. If in doubt, you can always fall back on white. White is the universal drape color and will complement any color of wall or carpet.

Fabrics: Natural fibers and fabrics go hand in hand. A fiber is a long, thin strand or thread of material. Fabric is a cloth material made by weaving or knitting threads together. There are a few types of fibers such as animal and plant fibers. Natural fibers contain cotton, hair, fur, silk, and wool. The only thing Synthetic fibers consists of is chemicals but they are usually stronger than both natural and regenerated fibers. The advantages of Synthetic Fiber options usually cost cheaper but is also one of the less comfortable kinds of fibers to wear. The most popular fabric in the world is cotton. Colors should depend on the season.

How to Choose the Right Fabric For The Right Window Treatment: The drapery fabric you chose to put up should remain in sync with the rest of the furniture in the room (pillows and table coverings). Keep in mind the style and ambiance of the room, Country style, Contemporary style. Contemporary styles might carry more floral and be more geometric. Country styles would contain cottons, eyelets and calico prints. Color is a very important factor in exceptional window treatment design. The window treatment fabric should be either lighter or in harmony with the furnishings and carpets, and wall color. If you can�t seem to figure it out or need help your best option would be to hire a designer and get first-rate opinions and ideas.