Whether you completely renovated your home, updated your kitchen with newly painted cabinets, or just want a refresh, dressing up your windows makes a huge impact on the home decorating process. So now that the paint has dried, you are left with a fish bowl of a house. Those paper blinds have been super helpful, but oh boy have they served their purpose! Time to move on. But how?!
This is a “stuck” point for many people. A vision can only go so far. Also, at this part of the process, you are spent, as is your budget. Designing window treatments can be not-so-fun and expensive.
Start by making a game plan. Research local seamstresses. You can call your local fabric store and see if they know of any at-home window treatment experts. You’d be surprised at how many retired seamstresses continue making window treatments out of their homes. They are typically less expensive, because they don’t have the overhead costs as some other professionals.
Now you need to decide which window decor you like best…the fun part! We’ve broken down a few of our favorites below. Once you have the seamstress check out your project, they will give you an idea of how much fabric will be needed to complete your window treatment job. Start searching for a fabric that works with the rest of your décor. The seamstress can then let you know how it will look based on the fabric pattern (the repeat of the pattern and where it will fall sometimes may change your mind).
Here are some simple, yet stylish window treatment options that will stand the test of time…
Plantation shutters – functional, easy to operate (for little hands as well!), partial or full privacy options. They are versatile and easy to design around if you haven’t got a clue the décor route you will be taking!
Valance – This offers the least privacy, but we love a good valance. There are so many different style options (balloon, flat, pleated) and they will give you the opportunity to add a pattern, color, texture to your room in a simple way. You may decide down the road to also incorporate a shade on the window. Then your window will really be dressed up.
Roman Shade – they come in different style options as well (roller, matchstick, venetian, flat, relaxed, pleated, balloon, etc.). Just another way to elevate your room. If you go with this option, remember you will need to close these completely to gain any privacy needed since they will come down from the top of the window.
Draperies – this really dresses up your room, but can also add a shabby-chic vibe. Sheer or lined draperies (or both in combo) are a solid option. If your room or window are small, double panels can overwhelm. In this case, your best bet is to pick a lightweight fabric or go with a single panel.
Before you make your final decision, be sure to consider how your shades will need to be hung. Some windows only allow for an inside mount, others an outside mount. Making this decision may change your mind completely.
Window treatments will shape up your window and room. The last step is to sit back and enjoy!