Ready-Made vs. Customized Drapes: Which One Should You Choose?

The windows are among of the most defining features of a home. With the right window treatments, you can create a truly remarkable design statement. The right style, pattern, color, and length of curtains and draperies can improve the look of any room while also expressing the homeowner’s personality and style.

There are some who already have an idea about what they want for their curtains and drapes, and therefore opt to have them custom-made. However, the vast selection of ready-made window treatments from all the different manufacturers and suppliers out there are nothing to sneeze at either. Nowadays, you don’t even have to leave home to buy your drapes and curtains because there are trusted suppliers that provide both affordable customized drapes and ready-made options that don’t scrimp on quality and detail.

To help you choose which options to go for, here are some things to consider.

 

Time and Budget

These are among the primary considerations when choosing curtains and drapes. Those who don’t have a large budget usually opt for ready-made window treatments, since these are produced in bulk, readily available, and are usually more affordable. They can be found in most stores that sell home furnishings and accessories, so homeowners don’t have to travel too far or wait too long to get their curtains and drapes installed.

However, if you have the money to spend and the time to wait for the finished product, the customized route may be for you, especially if you’re very specific about the design and could spend extra dollars for the inclusion of the tiniest details and design elements.

 

Window Size and Ceiling Height

Standard lengths of ready-made curtains and drapes usually fall between 84 to 96 inches; widths are usually at 45 to 54 inches. If the measurements of your windows and the distance from your floor to your ceiling fall within these finished lengths available, then ready-made curtains and drapes are something you might want to consider. With the right accessories and hanging techniques, they can even look custom-made for your home.

However, if you have very wide or very tall windows or high ceilings, you might have a bit of a difficulty finding ready-made window treatments that will suit your home. This is where custom-made curtains and drapes come in. You can pick your own fabrics, create your own designs, or have an expert repaper everything for you. This way, you can also ensure that the width and length of the products will perfectly match your home’s architectural requirements.

 

Design Preferences

Ready-made curtains and drapes come in a wide array of fabrics, colors, and designs. If you look far and wide enough, you will eventually find “the one.” And if you’re handy with a sewing machine (or know someone who is), a little extra length of fabric can be quickly dealt with through some trimming and sewing. Meanwhile, a quick trip to almost any home furnishing store and you’ll be certain to find matching accessories like wall hooks and tiebacks for your ready-made drapes.

However, if you have particular colors, fabrics, and design concepts in mind, then your best bet are custom-made drapes. From valances, tails, pelmets, to the thickness of the trims and borders, you have complete control over the final output of your home’s window treatments. Custom-made curtains and drapes are also ideal for matching with your furniture and the overall aesthetic theme of your home.

Installing curtains and drapes is one of the quickest ways to transform a home. They can make a small room look taller and bigger, and a huge, open space more cozy and inviting. With the right design choices, your windows can be more than just a source of light and ventilation, they can be one of the most attractive parts of your home.