Curtain: what is it, what are they, what is it called differently

A cornice is a decorative element that holds curtains and curtains. The accessory consists of guides (crossbars) and brackets with fasteners, complemented by hangers (for example, rings, hooks) and decorative elements. A simple device has several types of designs and many design methods.

Curtains with lambrequins Source www.gorizont.com.ua

Several short curtain rods Source www.pinterest.com

Cornice for heavy curtains Source www.houzz.ru

Types of curtain rods

Modern manufacturers offer types of cornices that are durable and have high aesthetic characteristics, and fit well into the interiors of rooms decorated in various styles.

Cornice for a custom window Source www.silentgliss.co.uk Forged cornice in the interior Source annascustomdesign.blogspot.com

Tubular or rod

This is one of the traditional types that serve as curtain holders and interior decoration. Rod types of curtain rods are considered the most durable and can be used for heavy curtains. If the curtains are very heavy, it is reinforced with an additional bracket. For rods up to 1.5 m long, 2 holders are sufficient. Next, 1 bracket is added for each meter. For a 2.5 m rod you will need 3 holders.

Options for cornices Source www.photoarby.com

Tubular cornices can be single-row, double-row or three-row with round or square sections. According to the mounting method, they are mounted to the wall or ceiling. The structures consist of a rod, brackets and tips. For arches, semicircular, diagonal, straight, and angled guides are produced.

Options for curtain holders Source retoore3.biz

Three-row metal cornice Source www.kupi-karnizi.ru

The advantages of rod models are ease of installation, high load-bearing capacity and versatility: they are used for rooms designed in different directions. Eaves made of wood (cherry, walnut, oak, beech, pine, birch) are in harmony with the interior in eco- and ethnic style (Scandinavian, Mediterranean, Indian, English, Russian).

Wooden cornice Source www.die-gardinenwerkstatt.de

In rooms designed in the styles of functionalism, minimalism, constructivism, and Gothic, cornices made of polished dark wood or metal are installed. Forged models look good together with classic, Italian, French curtains, in rooms decorated in Baroque, Provence, and loft styles.

Forged cornice Source modernplace.ru

Designer cornices Source batist.org

Plastic models are produced in different shapes and colors (monochrome, imitating wood, metal). Suitable for modern styles (minimalism, loft).

See also: Catalog of companies that specialize in interior redevelopment.

Strings

If the design of the room is made (planned) in one of the modern styles (high-tech, minimalism, constructivism, functionalism, modern classics, modern), this is the most successful option. These unobtrusive designs harmonize well with the interior of rooms decorated in other stylistic solutions.

The design is based on 2-3 brackets and a device for tensioning strings. Such cornices can be attached to the ceiling, walls (window opening or between two walls). Models are produced with one, two and three strings located one behind the other. Multi-row systems allow you to create complex combinations.

String version of the cornice Source zavodolymp.ru

String curtain rods are mainly used for lightweight fabric types: chiffon, fine silk, synthetic jacquard, lightweight satin and cotton. Heavy curtains (tapestry, velvet, printed fabrics) are recommended to be hung on guides made of double or triple cables. Over time, the strings may sag, in which case they are tightened. Curtains are attached using clips or hooks. Lambrequins are not used with this type of cornice; instead, you can use a strip on mensols, which will cover the structure.

String systems in combination with light curtains emphasize the airiness and elegance of the fabric. Such designs are suitable for halls, kitchens, balconies, niches, sloping roof windows, openings with straight and broken lines. In the latter case, supports are installed at the corners.

The strings are made in metallic silver, gold and bronze colors. The coating can be steel, brass, chrome, copper. Brackets are made of metal, wood and plastic.

Profile

Curtain rods of this type are profiles made of metal or plastic with one, two or three grooves designed for runners on which curtains are hung. Rollers and other sliding parts are hidden from view by the front bar. There are stops along the edges of the guides that prevent rings and sliders from falling.

There are dependent and independent profile systems. The first are solid straight structures made of several guides. The gap between them is 3-5 cm. Due to such a small distance, adjacent curtains can cling to each other when moving. This type of cornice is straight and cannot be used for bay windows or arches. Independent systems are suitable for the production of complex cornice shapes.

Ceiling cornice for bay window Source lv.aviarydecor.com

Plastic guides are produced in a two- or three-row design in the form of straight lines or strips with specified angles for a bay window. It is not possible to adjust such profiles to individual sizes. Complex models of cornices for private and non-standard projects are made from aluminum profiles. The designs are suitable for light and heavy multi-layer curtains, Roman and Austrian curtains.

Cornice for a semicircular window Source www.todiandboysjoinery.co.uk

Combined systems consist of a combination of aluminum and plastic. This solution allows you to set the profile to the required shape without the use of special equipment. Due to the flexibility of the guides, you can install them along the contour of the figured window. They bend at almost any angle, so they are convenient for designing non-standard layouts, bay windows, and arches. This is a suitable option for large windows, since there are no brackets in the direction of movement of the curtains and the curtains can be moved along the guides without any obstacles.

Electric curtain rod with curtains Source thespaandfitnessclub.com

For heavy curtains, steel structures are used. Thin types of curtain rods can be used for curtains around children's beds. The size of the curtain rod depends on the weight of the curtains. Some designs are equipped with tape for attaching lambrequins.

Bendable model Source www.comtact.co.uk

Modern manufacturers offer many design options:

• Single-row models for light, heavy curtains and roller blinds.
• Double row for a combination of curtains and tulle.
• Three-row ones are designed for complex compositions with draperies and lambrequins.
• “Slip” profile for medium and heavy curtains, equipped with Velcro, with which the lambrequin is attached. Can be used for bay windows and arches.
• Arched structures that follow the curves of the window. They are equipped with runners that move freely along the guide. Models are available in flat and round profiles.
• Cornices for Roman, Austrian and French curtains.
• Multi-row systems for heavy curtains.

The designs of profile cornices differ in the method of control. Control types:

• manual;
• using an electric drive;
• with cord adjustment (cord).

Tire

The design is based on a two-row or three-row strip with grooves along which curtain hooks move. Plastic tires are assembled like a children's construction set: all parts are connected in a given sequence. The tire length is adjusted independently. Using rounded rotary connectors, bay windows and corners in non-standard rooms are decorated, and windows are elegantly framed. For ease of use, the systems are equipped with mechanical and electronic sliding mechanisms.

Ceiling cornice with rounded ends Source web-studio.pp.ua

There are hooks on the runners for attaching curtains. The track systems are suitable for different types of curtains, including Italian, Austrian, Roman and Japanese.

Application in the interior

Many people believe that using curtains in decoration does not require serious “troubles”: they chose a light translucent fabric, hung it on the cornice, and now the room has acquired a new attractive look. However, experts say that using this type of curtains is not so simple. Choosing curtain fabric is a serious and responsible matter, because, as a rule, this purchase is not for one year.

For rooms with low ceilings, the best option would be light and smooth curtains without numerous ruffles and flounces, on which a complex pattern will not be applied.

You can give preference to one type or another, in accordance with the style used in the design and the purpose of the room. But usually the choice is made on light colors of thin curtains, which seem to fill the room with air and make it more spacious.

Canvases in a classic style that will be an excellent addition to bedrooms or living rooms.

For the living room, which is the central room in any apartment, you can use thin curtains in delicate shades. If they are hung in a sunny room and combined with airy curtains that are more saturated in brightness, but of the same color, such a duet will look impressive.

Vertical plain, denser stripes on the product will not only decorate, but also visually “raise” the ceiling.

Silk or linen light curtains. They muffle bright sunlight well and trap street dust.

Gray shades may be appropriate in any design. This color scheme organically fits the curtains into any interior style, from classic to high-tech.

The revummer and thin curtains were highly appreciated by consumers; in reviews they talk about them with delight, posting photos of the products. They are presented in various colors, ranging from snow-white to cold tones, so everyone can choose a product to their liking.

In order to visually increase the height of the window, you should opt for floor-length curtains. The ideal option would be a ceiling cornice, which visually increases the height. Light cool tones - blue or turquoise - will go well together.

Lovers of everything bright and with many accessories for decoration will also like this option, which is also used to make curtains that form a single ensemble with curtains.

A special atmosphere of coziness, romance and coziness will be created in the adult bedroom by thin green, lilac or blue curtains, through which street lamps will stream light.

When decorating a bedroom, thick curtains may also be appropriate, they effectively block light and have many positive reviews.

A good option would be curtains in beige, soft gray, or yellow colors. As a rule, it is suitable for pronounced interiors made in the neo-classical, modern or Victorian style.

The choice of curtains for the kitchen deserves additional attention. This specific room has its own characteristics associated with high humidity, the presence of odors, including burnt food and soot. This means that kitchen curtains should be the most practical, simple and easy to care for. But even if they are extremely beautiful and made of thin fabric, they believe that short or medium length ones will be most successful for the kitchen. This will provide free access for ventilation to the window, vent or transom. This option will be elegant and comfortable.

When choosing the color and shade of kitchen curtains, you need to find out whether they will be a harmonious addition or a bright accent.

For lovers of an original cut, options with ruffles and frills are suitable. They are beautiful and elegant, but require more regular washing or cleaning than straight-cut curtains, since dust and dirt accumulate in the folds more quickly.

The principles of their placement in the nursery are the same as in other rooms, but it is worth taking into account the age and gender of the child, as well as his hobbies, which may be reflected in the drawing. A wide range of color solutions and design proposals are available here.

Curtains in light shades are suitable for a child's room.

The main requirements for curtains in a nursery may be the following:

• strength of the fabric structure and its color;
• practicality of use;
• ease of care; and the safety of the components used in the production of the material.

They can be of different lengths, made from different types of fabrics, but the fulfillment of these requirements remains immutable.

Curtains in the nursery should be securely fastened and should not drag on the floor.

To decorate them, tiebacks and light draperies can be used.

The variety of fabric choices allows you to experiment and find the most successful options in each individual case.

Curtain rods: determining the parameters

What should non-professionals follow when choosing the type of cornice and curtains? There are several basic criteria.

Cornice length

To prevent open curtains from blocking the window, choose curtain rods that are larger than the window opening. The amount of extension depends on the width of the curtains and the window:

• For windows with a width of 90-150 cm, the general recommended extension is 30, 50 and 70 cm (small, medium, large). Accordingly, on each side the cornice will protrude 15, 25 and 35 cm from the window opening. This value depends on the density of the fabric, the design of the curtains, and the characteristics of the room.
• For openings from 150 to 200 cm - 50, 70 and 90 cm.
• From 200 to 250 – 70, 90 and 110 cm.
• 250–300 cm – 90, 110 and 130 cm.

Curtains for 2 windows Source yandex.md
How to choose a cornice for wide curtains? It should be remembered that wide, weighted curtains, when assembled, take up more space than narrow ones. For curtains with eyelets and pencil pleats, you can choose a small elongation of the cornice. For curtains with glass-shaped pleats, in French and European styles - on medium. For fabrics with bow pleats or drawstrings, use the large one.

White curtains in the interior Source autohome.access.ly

Curtains in a country house Source mishinastudio.ru

In cream shades Source piyenda.com

The amount of indentation of the cornice from the wall

In order for the curtains to look beautiful and not touch the window sill or radiators, you need to take this parameter into account. It is calculated as follows:

• Measure the distance from the wall to the most protruding point (window sill or radiator).
• Add 5-7 cm to the resulting value. This is the interval between the wall and the cornice guide closest to it.
• The next guide is placed after another 5-7 cm.

Green curtains in a wooden house Source horosho-doma.ru
Curtains with grommets are hung at a distance of 10-15 cm from the most protruding part and the adjacent row of curtains.

By what criteria to choose

The choice of a finished product or fabric for its manufacture depends on several components that must be taken into account, and it is important to use common sense, weighing your desires and the actual possibilities of using the curtain. It is worth remembering that high cost is not always a guarantee of quality, beauty and ease of use.

There is no need to be guided by the principle: “I’ll buy one like a friend’s.” What looks good in one room will not necessarily look good in another. The main selection criteria are considered to be:

• area and illumination of the room;
• its functionality;
• location of heating radiators.

Single-sheet and double-sheet curtains, respectively, are one or two pieces of fabric; in the second case, these are sliding curtains.
In order for the room to look elegant and cozy, it is worth considering some features of the selection of curtains. Practice shows that the most universal curtain is light-colored, smooth or decorated with small patterns, occupying no more than 1/3 of the surface of the panel. The denser the fabric and the denser the pattern, the more “compressed” the space where it is used. This texture is acceptable in large rooms with high ceilings facing the sunny side.

Usually, they try to choose curtains in such a way that they fit organically into the overall interior and do not disturb its harmony and match the overall color scheme. However, other options are possible when curtains of a contrasting color are used, which gives the room originality.

You should not buy thick curtains that completely match the color and tone of the walls - the interior will look too monotonous and boring. Also, designers do not recommend hanging curtains with large patterns in the room if there are large expressive patterns on the wallpaper.

Experts recommend using curtains of dark, cool colors very carefully, otherwise they will give the room a gloomy look. Being in such a room will be uncomfortable and uncomfortable. They are appropriate in an adult’s bedroom, adding some romance and mystery. The main thing here is not to lose a sense of proportion, so as not to visually turn it into a gloomy dungeon.

Curtain fabric in muted soft tones is suitable for large rooms flooded with sunlight. In other cases, you should give preference to light translucent options.

Single-row curtains are preferred by people who cover their windows with curtains alone, without using anything else for this purpose. Double-row curtains are chosen by those who, along with regular curtains, hang something else on the windows, such as tulle.

For a nursery or kitchen, you can choose short curtains, guided by considerations of practicality and safety.

A horizontal strip will visually expand the space of a narrow long room, but it is better to hang it on a cornice that extends beyond the window, which will complement this effect.

When decorating a window, ensure that it is in harmony with the entire room in both style and color. If the interior is minimalist, then the window frame should be laconic, with simple shapes. In such an interior, bright colored curtains near your windows will not look appropriate.

Heating radiators placed directly under the window can be covered with a curtain that does not reach the floor in length, so as not to impede the movement of warm air. In another option, it can be mounted on a cornice extended from the wall at some distance: this way the curtain will not touch.

When choosing ceiling curtains, it is important to fit them into the overall concept of the room.

How to choose curtains for tulle: tips for choosing

In addition to the color scheme, when selecting curtains for tulle, the types of fabrics and the rules for their compatibility are taken into account:

• The combination of natural materials and synthetics is considered undesirable. Next to each other they contrast noticeably, creating dissonance.
• In the composition you can use curtains made of cotton and viscose with tulle made of polyester and viscose. Both fabrics drape well, and the viscose used in them adds shine.
• For multi-row curtains, it is recommended to combine fabrics that are similar in composition. Taffeta can be used together with chiffon. Linen and chintz will not suit it.
• Satin curtains with a glossy sheen look good with tulle and emphasize its airiness.
• Linen fabrics are combined with tulle in the form of a fine mesh.
• Massive dark curtains are combined with organza tulle.
• In order not to overload the interior, in small rooms tulle is used without heavy curtains.

Types of models

The Hilja curtain model can be hung by passing the curtain rod through hidden loops, or using rings and hooks

A set of thick curtains in dark blue Maygull, which reliably protect from excessively bright light and drafts

Curtains made from lightweight Lille fabric help maintain an atmosphere of privacy, but do not block out daylight

Thick Vilborg curtains in beige color made of thick, heavy luxurious fabric

You can see what types of curtains there are in the photos presented in this article.

Methods for attaching curtains

The type of fastening of curtains to the cornice is chosen based on the density and heaviness of the fabric, its structure, color, interior design and curtains.

Accessories for hanging canvases:

• hooks for light types of fabric;
• rings for heavy and light materials;
• eyelets for matting, cotton, light fabrics (organza, tulle);
• fabric loops for lightweight fabrics;
• drawstring for different types of material.

Discreet interior Source www.gladpro.company Attic design Source www.bhanuswariubud.com

Decoration of the first floor in a house Source www.apartmentnumber4.com

Emerald-colored curtains Source homeli.ru Attaching curtains to drawstring Source twitter.com

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Curtain width

When the curtains cover a window, their edges should touch in the middle, and the width of the straightened canvases should match the length of the cornice. If the curtains or curtain rod are not matched correctly, the curtains may not meet in the middle or excess fabric may become noticeable. Therefore, when choosing ready-made curtains, you need to check what width is indicated on the label.

Curtains on large windows Source vi.aviarydecor.com

To determine the width of the curtains, you need to know the coefficient of gathering (pomp) of the curtain. Its value depends on the density of the material and the type of folds:

• 3.5 – for curtains made of thin fabrics (organza, mesh, etc.) you will need material 3.5 times the length of the cornice;
• 2.5 – if the fabric is of medium density;
• 1.5-2 – for thick fabrics;
• 1.5-2 – if the curtains are on hinges;
• 2 – for curtains with eyelets or with triple folds, standard curtain tape;
• 2-2.5 – for curtains with pencil folds;
• 2.5 – with buffs.

Lambrequin in a hall in a classic style Source sakhexpo.ru
How to calculate the width of curtains:

• The length of the cornice is multiplied by the fabric gathering factor.
• The resulting value is divided by the number of canvases.

Thanks to a simple algorithm, you can easily determine the correct width of the curtains.

Washing and care: useful tips

It is necessary to care for curtains according to the recommendations for a particular product.

Textile accessories in the home, by definition, require washing and special care. Hand marks often remain on the curtains, dust and dirt collect from an open window during rain. The main care is washing. Let's consider useful recommendations and rules for cleaning curtains made of various materials:

1. Silk, veil. These are the finest fabrics that require delicacy in relation to themselves. Silk and veils can only be washed at a minimum temperature of 20 degrees. The mode needs to be set to delicate. Then the product will retain its shape and attractive appearance for a long time. Additionally, you can protect it with a special bag. It is better to dry it naturally - in the open air. Do not twist. Before hanging on the window, the curtain can be lightly ironed.

Note! There is no need to pre-soak the silk or veil. Any stains can be removed from them without much difficulty.

1. Viscose. This raw material normally tolerates temperatures up to 40 degrees. When washing, the use of special products is allowed. When choosing a product, you need to make sure that it is intended for thin materials. If exposed to the sun for a long time, viscose can become rough. For this reason, after washing with the product, you can use conditioner. No rinsing is required after conditioner. The material can only be ironed through a damp cloth.
2. Cotton, linen. Natural fabrics are not too demanding to care for. They are usually used in eco-style. Cotton and linen can be washed at a temperature of 40-60 degrees. Natural raw materials have high density. Therefore, if necessary, you can even use bleach. The most difficult stage of care will be drying. Cotton and linen should not be dried using a heater or near radiators. Such drying will cause shrinkage. It is best to allow natural air drying. Linen should be ironed slightly damp.
3. Polyester. Most popular among buyers. Polyester retains its shape well and has an attractive appearance. Washing polyester products is not always permitted. However, if the manufacturer gives the go-ahead, then the delicate mode should be chosen. The water temperature should not reach 40 degrees. Low temperature will help prevent wrinkles. Some models are not recommended to be washed. In this case, dry cleaning can be used.

How to choose curtain rods: tips for choosing

As a result, before purchasing a cornice, you should decide on its main characteristics:

• installation location (wall or ceiling);
• type of construction;
• fastening method;
• material;
• appearance.

An additional option is management. Models with electric drive are more convenient to use. They are used when there are a large number of windows, panoramic and standard windows. Such curtain rods are controlled using a remote control, radio or regular button. They can be connected to the Smart Home system.

Chalet style curtains Source yandex.ru

Bright interior Source www.gettyimages.com

Reviews

Modern roller blinds, blinds, and Japanese curtains have slightly pushed classic curtains out of fashion. However, ordinary curtains can also find a place in a residential interior. They can be used independently, in addition to thick curtains. Owner reviews are in most cases very positive. Users note the attractive appearance of modern models, their unique ability to hide the room from prying eyes without darkening. Also among the advantages, many highlight ease of maintenance and protection from drafts. According to reviews, scissor curtains without additional curtains are increasingly being used. It looks simple and relevant. The most popular colors are: milky, gray, white, light blue, blue.

How to choose a cornice for tulle

If the curtain is made of tulle, you can choose metal, string, plastic, or bus curtain rod systems. For light and translucent fabrics, string and thin metal rod guides are used. The mounting option can be any: ceiling or wall.

Cornices are a full-fledged element of the interior that performs an aesthetic function and carries a load. It can be used as an interesting accent, a highlight. Even this small element contributes to the atmosphere of the room. Manufacturers offer a wide range of models, including designer ones.

Cornices for ceiling curtains Source optolov.ru

Cornice with decorative element Source kupinatao.com

Tulle for an interior in a minimalist style Source www.d-interior.sk

Those who prefer original non-standard solutions can choose products created using innovative technologies using new methods of processing bronze, wood, brass, steel, nickel, and forged iron. Cornices are inlaid with non-ferrous metals, precious woods, Venetian glass, natural stone, porcelain, crystal, decorated with mother-of-pearl, leather and other materials.