Window Pair

by Kate
(Quaker Hill, CT)

Question

We recently renovated our kitchen, which included closing one window and eliminating a wall. We now have a larger, more open space w/ the kitchen at one end of the room.

There are four windows total, two in the kitchen and two in the family/seating area. They are all double-hung, 12 over 12 windows. The kitchen windows face northwest and are on either side of the sink.

They are large, running from ceiling to counter and I don't plan to put anything over them. However, I want to add window treatments to the other two windows that are in the family/seating area. I don't want to block any of the window glass area during the day, as the room faces northeast and needs all the light it can get. However, it would be great to be able to pull some curtains closed at night, to make the room warmer and cozier.

I was thinking about a thin metal rod above the molding - possibly running across the entire width of both windows, with grommet or ring-hung curtain panels. I am an experienced sewer and look forward to your advice and opinions.

Answer

Here are some pointers that will be helpful:

• Remember the stacking width - when the curtains are open they will need to stack somewhere. If you don't want to cover the window you will need to make the rod and the curtains wider and it will stack on the side of the windows. You can choose to stack either on one side or both. Take this into account when you measure the fabric.



• Purchase drapery hardware before you cut the fabric so you can see how much the hardware will take up and how long to make the curtains.



• If you want the curtain to have fullness look here for ideas for drapery pleats.



• If you don't want to be physically pushing the curtain material to open look at traverse rods that open by pulling at cords. For decorative traverse rods click here.



• If you want to hang them on rings see the decorative rods below:
  
  Decorative Wood Drapery Rods
  
  Wooden Finial, Rod, and Bracket Sets
  
  Drapery Hardware Rod and Finial Sets

Good luck on your project.

When you are done with it you can brag about it here!