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Atmosphere: Nesting

How to Choose Your Drapes

Windows are quite the paradox. When hunting for real estate, high windows that let the light pour in should be at the top of the checklist. But, come moving day, covering those big windows becomes a tricky task. Here are some helpful ideas. The biggest decision is Drapes or shades? I like drapes. I feel like they make a room look more finished. They’re more luxurious. I also suggest roman shades for smaller windows, bay windows, or by a bed. To master the art of the draperies, here are some guidelines:

  1. Look To The French For Style

Screen Shot 2016-01-13 at 9.43.41 PM

Courtesy of Restoration Hardware

There are so many ways to finish the top and bottom of a drape. I enjoy a french pleat! This style of pleating makes the drapes look a little fuller and can also be referred to as a pinch pleat. The important thing to remember is that the pinching should look as though it has been evenly pinched together. It’s definitely a more traditional style of window coverings. Keep in mind that, if it’s a modern house, it should be a flat drape with no pleat. And for the bottom of the drape, I like a French seam at the hem, so that there is no visible stitching.

2.Hang them at the Perfect Length

Screen Shot 2016-01-13 at 9.54.45 PM

Courtesy of Restoration Hardware

A drape is only as beautiful as it is functional. Use curtain hooks that attach the back of the pleat to the curtain rod. But, if you like something more modern, a metal grommet can be used.

3. Master the Material

Screen Shot 2016-01-13 at 10.02.09 PM

Courtesy of Pottery Barn

The kind of material used for a drape can dictate how formal a room is. A silk drape, for example, will make a room feel much fancier than a linen drape. In general, linens are beautiful. If the window gets a lot of light, line the drapes with a sun-safe material to prevent sun rot and fading. If you need a dark room to sleep, you might consider a blackout lining for your drapes. But, if not, then don’t waste the money.

Screen Shot 2016-01-13 at 10.05.00 PM

Courtesy of Pottery Barn

When it comes to patterns, it is important to remember that the purpose of having drapes is to accentuate the windows in such a way that they almost blend in. If done right, patterned drapes can make a big statement and become a beautiful backdrop for a room.

Hope this helps you make a wise decision on your next drapery purchase!

Keep it simple!


About Sandra Maddox

Sandra Maddox is an outspoken advocate for Christian Motherhood, the founder of TheArtofDomesticity.com, a speaker, ministry leader, mentor, teacher, children's book author and accomplished interior designer. She directs Treasured, a ministry for young mothers at Saddleback Church in Southern California. Her heart's passion is to encourage, train and inspire moms to use their homes as places of ministry, where each can uniquely express the love and reality of Christ in her marriage, in her motherhood and as a woman of God. Sandra lives with her husband, Dr. Ron Maddox, in Newport Beach, California.

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Welcome, My Friend!

Hi, I'm Sandra and I am so glad that you are here! You’ll soon learn that I have a passion for creating a beautiful life-giving sanctuary within the home. To help you along your own journey of domesticity, this site is a place for you to join me in the journey of discovering how to create homes that reflect God's love, grace and beauty.

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