Curtains are an irreplaceable and unique accessory in every room. They create comfort and give the room a special style. In the process of decorating the interior and choosing a style for the room, the emphasis is not only on the curtains, but also on the cornice.
The most attractive and convenient to use are string cornices.
The product is light in weight and practically hidden from human eyes, so it is perfect for any design solution. A thin steel string emphasizes textured and multi-colored textiles in an original way. To decorate the interior, a string cornice has been installed for many years as a durable product that is resistant to wear and tear. It is not affected by aggressive environments.
What types of string cornices are there?
The basis for such a cornice is a tension string made of durable steel. It is fastened to the ceiling or wall using special brackets similar to brackets. The string cornice can be up to five meters long and, if necessary, is mounted in several rows on brackets. In order to hang the curtain fabric from the string, use special clips or hooks.
String cornices can have several design options:
- Single row.
- Double row.
- Three-row.
The decisive factor when choosing a curtain rod is the overall design of the room. For example, if it is necessary to decorate a window opening with curtains, tulle and a lambrequin at the same time, it is recommended to choose a three-row cornice design. String curtains and other elements will be fixed on separate rows.
Profile (tire) cornices
The basis of the design is a rail with one or more grooves for attaching curtains. They are made of plastic, which has a number of advantages:
- Strength.
- The plastic cornice completely hides hooks, rings and other fastening elements in the depths of the grooves.
- The flat surface of the cornice fits optimally into the interior without standing out among other details.
- Plastic does not require special care rules and is not afraid of moisture or aggressive chemicals.
Such options are affordable, but with prolonged exposure to sunlight they quickly lose color.
Advantages of a string cornice
What is the attraction of simplicity? What makes string cornices popular and in demand?
A huge number of positive aspects is the determining factor.
Compact design. Minimum space required, easy to install. Isn't this what you are striving for?
The string cornice is an inconspicuous interior detail. All attention will be focused on the “weightless” curtains that seem to hang in the air.
Strings for every taste. They can be of any color and any coating. You can choose them in gold or platinum color, copper or silver shades will satisfy all non-standard wishes. Decent appearance is expensive.
Product versatility. Ceiling or wall strings - strings accept all options. They function perfectly in any area.
The optimal price category is the strongest trump card. The affordable price, supported by popular use, is a clear and undeniable advantage.
Flexible models
Curtain rods with shape changing function are made of aluminum. Manufacturers use special alloys with a high aluminum content to make such products.
The structure of the alloys is resistant to corrosion, easy to maintain, and favorably emphasizes interior details. The ability to change the shape of the holding rod was appreciated by many buyers, which determined the popularity of this curtain rod.
Closed and open string cornice: fastening correctly
Regardless of the model, the product includes several intermediate and support brackets. They are supplemented with tension points and a cable. In addition, the standard delivery package includes mounting hardware and fasteners.
Expert commentary
Vladislav Dobronravov
Leading technical specialist at Okna-Media company
From the outside it may seem that a string curtain rod is not particularly difficult to attach, but this is not always the case.
Taking into account the structure of the material and the type of construction will help you avoid common mistakes. The last factor is divided into two categories - open and closed.
The differences between them can be described as follows:
- With the closed variety, all protruding elements are hidden from view as much as possible;
- The open fastening format is based on speed - a base hook is screwed into the wall, with the help of which the fishing line is installed;
- If we are talking about a fairly spacious balcony, then the choice is made in favor of the closed variety.
The production of string cornices is carried out in two common varieties - open and closed. The division is based on the method of fixing the hooks in the wall. If a light load is expected, then it is more logical to install an “open” type. In this case, you can save time and money spent on installation. Built-in curtain rods are often used for heavy curtains and curtains.
Beginners should take note: what are the benefits of string for curtains?
Compact size and long-term use are two common characteristics of the material. In addition, the list of qualities can be expanded thanks to mobility. For example, a cornice can be mounted in a country house. If necessary, it can be easily removed and stored until next spring. The list of qualities continues with an attractive appearance.
Unlike other similar designs, a string cornice allows you to choose a model that can blend into its surroundings.
In addition to the listed qualities, builders focus on a number of additional ones:
- A string of any thickness does not attract attention;
- Possibility to choose ceiling holders taking into account the style of curtains;
- The opportunity to save the family budget - the material itself and the entire installation process do not require any significant time and physical costs;
- Ceiling fasteners are available in gold and silver versions.
Features of combination in the interior
The small size and lightness of the string cornice make it possible to use it to decorate both large and very small rooms. They are invisible, do not visually cut the space horizontally, and therefore are universal for rooms with low ceilings. The strings do not overload the interior; they can be raised to any height and installed even on a very narrow partition.
Manufacturers place the main emphasis in the product on the design of the holders:
- white to match the color of the ceiling;
- shiny silver, with brass and gold tints, matte with a noble gray tint;
- made of stainless steel;
- made to look like wood;
- combined with beautiful inlay.
The design features of the brackets allow you to place curtains at different distances from the window. If necessary, bring it closer, or move it 100 mm or more if heating pipes run along the opening or a wide window sill protrudes.
The string cornice is designed for light and medium weight curtains; under heavy fabric they will sag . Easily withstand chiffon, organza, tulle, lightweight modern materials, synthetic jacquard, silk, thin cotton. Under heavy weight, the string will sag; it is unacceptable to hang tapestries, printed fabrics, velvet, heavy satin, etc. on it. If you still need to use this type of curtain rod for massive, large-weight curtains, then it is recommended to pull two strings.
A thin steel cable is ideal for decorating modern interior styles: loft, techno, minimalism, high-tech, etc. It does not look like an alien element in rooms with a classic design, it is simply not visible. Convenient for installation in a niche. Does not distract attention from other details of the space design.
A string cornice is not suitable for curtains with lambrequins, but you can hide the tension system with a strip attached to the wall or ceiling on mensols, and hang a decorative curtain element on it. Using the same principle, you can arrange a baguette.
Cornices with decorative strip
A new product from manufacturers is cornices with a beautiful strip that has a wide base, a dense structure, and a bright color composition. The fasteners are located behind the bar, which completely hides the rings, hooks, and clamps. Similar models are used as additional decor.
Photos of the ceiling cornice presented on the pages of the official catalogs from the manufacturer will help you make the best choice.
Design characteristics
The string cornice is universal because it is attached to both the ceiling and the wall. The thin cable is made from new steel alloys, it is hardly noticeable and does not spoil the overall interior of the room. The device looks stylish, is reliable in use and beautiful.
The universal string for curtains with fastening has a standard length of five meters. It is possible to reduce it to the required distance. All bracket models have several grooves into which up to three steel cables are secured. Models with a large number of rows are designed for attaching several layers of textile curtains that are hung on clips. There are several models of cornices that are susceptible to corrosion.
A special and improved system is used to maintain tension in the strings . During operation, the string can be tightened if it is very sagging. The brackets are installed at a distance of two meters from each other. To create a strong and reliable structure, several support points are made.
String structures have several brackets between which the strings are pulled. Thanks to the design of the brackets, the curtains are placed at different distances from each other and from the window. If necessary, you can move the curtains back or bring them closer together.
DIY wire cornice
Its design is best made of a closed type with two rows of fishing line and attached to the wall or made into a ceiling version. The sequence of work is as follows:
- Planed pine boards are burned with a blowtorch and then varnished. It serves as a decorative strip.
- A steel corner 25 x 25 mm is prepared for the manufacture of brackets. Two blanks are made from it and connected by welding so that the shelves are directed in different directions.
- Using brackets, a double-row string is attached to the decorative strip into holes pre-drilled in the body of the M6 bolts. They are installed in the holes of the brackets. The curtain string is tensioned by tightening the nuts.
- Paper clips are used to securely fasten fabric to strings and allow it to move easily.
The brackets perform two functions at once : they are used to tension the string and hang the cornice above the window on the wall.
Features of operation
The string is an undemanding interior detail, but it is not universal either. Do you want to create the perfect image of your interior? Then pay attention to the following recommendations and practical tips; they will certainly help you place the right emphasis on elements and accessories.
- Only lightweight fabrics are suitable for string curtains . For example, a chiffon curtain in the bedroom, a tulle curtain in the living room, a veil in a children's room or bedroom look great on a string. Even jacquard, but a lightweight version of it, is accepted by string curtains. Satin, cotton and any light fabrics are no exception. Never hang heavy teak or tapestry curtains on strings. You will ruin everything: the string will definitely sag due to its inability to hold the mass of the textile fabric.
- Do you want classic curtains ? It is allowed, but on the condition that the cables are stretched in two rows. Only a double cable is capable of holding fairly heavy curtains. Do you dream of a lambrequin, but don’t want to give up string curtains? There is no reason to worry. Three rows of cables - and the issue is resolved.
- String cornice is suitable for all surfaces . This means that the installation process will not add difficulties and hassle. But, as with every rule, there is an exception. You cannot install strings on suspended ceilings, as the fastening will puncture the stretched fabric and allow air to enter. Ceiling cornices and suspended ceilings are an “explosive mixture.” A very labor-intensive process is attaching a string to a suspended ceiling. The difficulty lies in the ability of the ceiling to sag under the weight of the fabric. Sometimes even medium weight fabrics can be critical for the entire curtain rod.
- String curtains look very advantageous on rectangular windows or if the window openings are wide enough.
- Variety of string tension systems . The range of strings is very rich in types of fastening and tension systems. Before purchasing a string system, study the design features, read the fastening instructions, evaluate the ceiling cornices and learn how to independently adjust the string tension.
- The metal string is vulnerable . Like any metal product, they are subject to corrosion. Is the room temperature unstable? Is there high humidity in the room? Then the strings must be coated with an anti-corrosion substance.
The most important thing is that the ultra-thin cable will not disrupt visual perception, and the proportions of the room will comply with the norms and rules. The strength of string curtain rods lies in their simplicity; thanks to this, they can even distract attention from additional interior elements and place emphasis on curtains.
Combination with textiles
Due to their designs and distinctive features, string products are ideally combined with weightless types of curtains. A steel string is attached to a durable structure to the ceiling or wall. Not too heavy textile fabrics are hung on a wire cornice , since due to the heavy weight of the curtains, the strings sag and do not look aesthetically pleasing.
The strings can easily withstand chiffon, tulle and organza, as well as any other lightweight new materials. For tapestry, printed and velvet curtains, it is necessary to install a double-row or multi-row cornice.
Thanks to cornices with strings, translucent textiles float in the air and are not held on by anything, because the thin string is almost invisible.
Decorative clips or hooks are used to attach curtains. They are made in different colors or with a metallic shade that will suit any room interior.
The shape of the window is an equally important characteristic for choosing the type of cornice. String products and metal curtain rod holders are great for rectangular windows.
When choosing a string, we take into account the nuances
Not all types of window openings and types of curtains can use such a cornice. There are several restrictions when decorating the interior:
- It is not recommended to use heavy multi-layer fabrics on a thin string, as sagging is inevitable (jacquard, tapestries, teak).
- If several layers of curtains are planned, the number of strings in the structure must be increased.
- Such cornices are not installed on suspended ceilings.
Small fixed windows, as well as those that have a tilt-and-turn opening mechanism, are best decorated with roller blinds in mini format with guide strings. They are distinguished by their affordable price and a wide variety of colors, which allows you to refresh the interior. Roller blinds with guide strings are also an excellent option for hiding niches in the walls from prying eyes. Products classified as mini are very suitable for small windows, completely preventing the penetration of direct sunlight.
If you choose curtain rods for string curtains in Leroy Merlin, you need to correlate the dimensions of the window opening and the product itself . It is easy to install them yourself, the main thing is that all the components are at hand. If you plan to install roller blind strings in a room with an unstable microclimate (bathroom, kitchen), it is better to choose options made of stainless steel. Other products will be subject to corrosion and quickly lose their presentable appearance.
Recommendations for selection
The determining factor when purchasing is the design of the room . For example, if you want to decorate a window opening with tulle, curtains and lambrequins, you need to select a three-row cornice. Mini roller blinds will decorate blind windows with a rotating mechanism. They are affordable and available in a wide range of colors on the market. You can also use them to hide niches in the walls. Roller blinds are used for small windows and protect the room well from direct sunlight.
When choosing a string cornice for curtains, the dimensions of the product and the window opening are correlated. It’s easy to install it with your own hands, the main thing is that all the components are at hand. For a bathroom or kitchen, it is advisable to choose a stainless steel option, otherwise corrosion will quickly spoil the external beauty of the product.
Important Operating Instructions
String – is universal among cornices. An uneven ceiling or a crooked stele will not interfere with it. A modern string cornice is almost invisible, and its fittings are exquisite. A curtain on such a curtain rod will ideally support a composition with blinds or a Roman blind, which will make it universal in any room. This is a wonderful decorative element to create coziness in every room.
But, nevertheless, it is important to remember that it is better to install a string cornice in a room that is ventilated. Then the elements of the cornice will not succumb to corrosion.
Expert commentary
Vladislav Dobronravov
Leading technical specialist at Okna-Media company
You should not use a curtain rod for very heavy curtains. The cable may sag.
The string curtain rod is perfect for light jacquard fabrics, voiles, satin or cotton. It creates lightness and airiness in the interior. Due to its invisibility, there is no feeling of bulkiness on the windows. It is justified in small rooms, expanding them and visually raising the ceilings.
In a room where there is a need to limit the flow of sunlight, you can easily use two strings and decorate the window with a veil and curtains. The biggest advantage is the ease of movement of the curtains. In this type of cornice, the hooks never catch each other, and one strip of fabric does not prevent the other from sliding.
If the string cornice is installed correctly, then during operation it will not cause inconvenience or disappointment.
Knowing all the advantages and disadvantages, you can make a choice in favor of a string cornice, or refuse it. But, if the design solution has found support among the materials used, and the shortcomings of the cornice will not affect the user’s needs in any way, then it will become an excellent aesthetic center of any room.
How to clean
The need to clean string cornices is due to extending the service life and maintaining the attractive appearance of the structure. Frequent cleaning is better for any product than infrequent cleaning. The less often you clean the surface of the cornice, the more difficult it is to get rid of dirt on it later. Dust, rust and various stains are typical stains on home metal curtain rods. The easiest way to get rid of dust is on string cornices.
It is enough to wipe the strings, brackets, hooks and strips with a rag from time to time. After wet cleaning, be sure to wipe all elements dry. This will prevent rust from occurring on metal surfaces. Use only coarse natural fabrics or soft brushes to avoid damaging the coating of the cornice.
Various stains can be removed using regular detergents. During cleaning, partial or complete dismantling of the structure is required. Thanks to this, you will reach all hard-to-reach places and avoid stretching the thread. Cleaning cornices requires frequent changes of clean water, wearing protective rubber gloves and using gentle cleaning liquids and powders.
With the help of a wire brush, sandpaper, special household chemicals and some effort, you can deal with almost any rust. Next, the curtain string must be treated with enamel or a special varnish to protect the metal and increase its service life. In addition, craftsmen advise covering the thread with products with an antistatic effect.
Reviews
Buyers of string cornices are unanimous in their reviews of such products. This is an excellent model for small rooms or rooms with low ceilings. Yes, such products are not intended for heavy curtains, they cannot be placed on a suspended ceiling, but these are minor disadvantages. Numerous positive responses confirm that string curtain rods are becoming popular again.
Modern string curtain rod, chrome plated
In many reviews, consumers write about the low cost and easy installation of the product. Some note the possibility of attaching two types of light tulle through the use of several strings. Others appreciate the large selection of additional decorative elements and length adjustment in string cornices. An undoubted advantage for many buyers is the possibility of ceiling installation of the cornice.
The classic look of such curtain rods makes you pay attention to the curtains that are attached to them. In combination with straight curtains, they attract attention precisely to themselves - because of their noble metallic color . String cornices are distinguished from other models by the variety of decorative finishes and simplicity.
Tubular curtain rods: types, photos
They are made from metal, plastic and wood. Metal tubular cornices can be made of aluminum, bronze, steel and other alloys. There are round tubular cornices made of ferrous metal or aluminum alloy, laminated with a thin film that imitates wood species. These are the cheapest of this category.
Pipe cornices - a traditional way to decorate a window
Section: round or square
Basically, tubular curtain rods have a circular cross-section. This is a classic. But there is also a square section with corresponding square “rings” for hanging curtains. They look stylish and are suitable for interiors decorated in modern trends: art deco, loft, minimalism.
Square tubular curtain rods look stylish.
But how convenient they are to use, how well such “rings” will slide, that’s the question. Everything can be fine if the surfaces are perfectly sanded and adjusted. If there are even the slightest irregularities... It’s easier in this regard with wooden curtain rods. They can be varnished. Then normal sliding is ensured. Although, no one bothers to varnish the metal...
Sales forms
There are two forms of selling curtain rods made from pipes. The first is a ready-made kit, which includes brackets, pipes, rings, and tips. This is how they usually sell wooden or plastic curtain rods, some metal ones.
You can choose a pipe of any color and diameter, and then select the ends
The second form is everything separately. This is more typical for metal models. Buy a pipe of the required diameter and brackets. For curtains, a thicker pipe is usually used - 22 mm or more, for tulle - less. There are many different tips for decorating them. Different in price, shape... For thin, tulle-like ones, they take ordinary plugs, but for the first row you can choose something more elaborate (if such a decoration suits the style of the room).
There are many tips, different styles, colors, prices
With this form of sale, there are also several types of rings and clips for attaching curtains. They are also purchased separately. After all, these rings are not always needed, since there are ways to hang curtains without additional fastening - on eyelets or loops.
