To Get Started...

The planning stage is my favorite and least favorite part. I get excited because I am doing something new to my home, but at the same time I get overwhelmed because of all the options to choose from! Thinking through these three main points sometimes alleviates that unnecessary stress. Remember, this is supposed to be FUN!!!

Fabric, Fabric, Fabric!
It's important to look around your room when deciding on a fabric. If you are starting with a blank canvas, great - the sky is the limit. But, if you are updating your curtains, and want to keep your bedding the same, it's important to take a pillow or cushion with you so that you can match colors/patterns/fringe.

A Picture Is Worth 1,000 Words
Get some magazines and look at the curtains, pillows, etc. Do you like long and tailored, do you like ruffles, do you like the rod to show or do you want it hidden, do you like clips or do you like tab-tops or tie backs, do you like pleats, do you like fringe? Look at the pictures under Custom Made for a quick guideline. Once you have decided what you want, try to find a picture so that I can make sure to get as close as possible to the look you are going for. http://cotedetexas.blogspot.com/ is my new favorite website - view it for some examples of truly beautiful curtains.

How much fabric do I need?
For standard panels with single width, measure from the curtain rod to desired length. Add 14 inches for the top and bottom hems and this is the amount of fabric you should purchase. If your panels will be lined, get the same amount as your fabric, less the additional 14 inches. Double and triple width curtains make a huge difference, so I encourage you to go for a less expensive fabric so that you can purchase enough material to have double or triple width curtains made. For two double width panels in a standard room, 12 yards of fabric should be purchased.
Small pillow, 1/2 yard of fabric
Medium pillow, 3/4 yard of fabric
Large Pillow, 1 yard of fabric