common mistakes monday / by Lauren Andrews

Draperies can do incredible things for a space. They add softness while creating a focal point. But they always seem to be the biggest question mark to clients. They are beautiful and mysterious, yet many people do not know how to execute them correctly. So many times I run across draperies where the panels don't touch the floor, the hardware is mounted too low, or the panels are too skinny without enough fullness. So I have put together some examples of draperies that will make you swoon.

Beth Webb Interiors

Beth Webb Interiors

McAlpine, Booth, & Ferrier

McAlpine, Booth, & Ferrier

Melanie Turner Interiors

Melanie Turner Interiors

Important note to take here - always mount your hardware as close to the crown moulding/ceiling as possible, even if you are purchasing ready-made, make sure to get the longest length in order to heighten your walls and give the illusion that your ceilings are higher than they are. 

McAlpine, Booth, & Ferrier

McAlpine, Booth, & Ferrier

McAlpine, Booth, & Ferrier

McAlpine, Booth, & Ferrier

How much should your draperies touch the floor? This is always a personal question. Many people either love or hate draperies that puddle on the floor. The more puddle (or break), the more formal. I typically like a 1/2" break where you get the look, but not too much of a drag. It is more modern to have your draperies just touch the floor.

McAlpine, Booth, & Ferrier

McAlpine, Booth, & Ferrier

Lastly, take into consideration the fullness of your draperies. If you are purchasing ready-made, that might mean that you need to purchase a few panels per side and sew them together. If a workroom is fabricating your custom draperies, I usually stick around 2x fullness.

There are a million products out there today for ready-made vs. custom draperies, so explore your options now that you have a little foundation of knowledge!

If you need help pulling together your space, call Lauren Andrews Design at 404-989-2386.