How to Choose the Perfect Curtains: My Story of Finding the Right Curtains for My Home

When I moved into my new apartment, I was thrilled to decorate every corner of it. However, I hit a roadblock when it came to choosing the right curtains. Some people might say, "Just pick a color you like; it's just a big piece of fabric that blocks light." But I firmly believe that curtains can completely transform the atmosphere of a room. They add warmth, privacy, and a touch of style.

Determined to find the perfect curtains, I embarked on a journey to learn everything about curtain shopping. Now, I want to share my experience and tips with you.

Step 1: Consider Your Needs and Style

First, think about the purpose of your curtains. Are they for the bedroom, where you need complete darkness for a good night’s sleep? Or are they for the living room, where you want to let natural light in while maintaining some privacy?

For my bedroom, I knew I needed heavy blackout curtains—specifically, velvet ones. My window faces the sunrise, and I’m not a morning person. I wanted to enjoy sleeping in on weekends without being woken up by harsh sunlight.

At the same time, consider your personal style. Do you prefer a modern and minimalist look, or do you lean towards a more traditional and cozy design? In my home, I blended modern and rustic elements. For my living room, I chose neutral-colored curtains with a simple design. They complemented my leather sofa and wooden coffee table perfectly.

Step 2: Measure Your Windows Properly

This is a crucial step that many people overlook. You don’t want curtains that are too short or too long.

To measure the width, use a measuring tape to check the distance from one side of the window frame to the other. For the length, measure from the top of the window frame to where you want the curtains to end. If you want a more dramatic effect with the fabric pooling on the floor, add an extra 6 to 12 inches to the length.

I made a mistake at this stage—I didn’t measure accurately, and the curtains I ordered were too short. It was a frustrating experience, but it taught me the importance of precision. Take your time and double-check your measurements!

Step 3: Choose the Right Fabric

There are many different curtain fabrics to choose from.

Linen is a popular choice because it’s lightweight and has a natural, relaxed appearance. It allows some light to filter through, creating a soft, airy atmosphere. For my study, I chose linen curtains. They let in just enough light to create a comfortable workspace without causing glare on my computer screen.

If you want more privacy and better light control, consider blackout curtains, such as velvet ones. These curtains are often made with multiple layers of fabric and can block out almost all light. As I mentioned earlier, I use them in my bedroom, and they’ve truly changed my life. They also provide insulation, keeping the room cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.

Step 4: Decide on the Curtain Style

There are various curtain styles to suit different tastes and window types. Depending on the look you want, curtains can have pleats, be smooth, or feature decorative details.

For my dining room, I chose grommet curtains. These have metal rings at the top, making them easy to open and close. They also give a sleek, modern look. Plus, they are durable and easy to maintain.

Step 5: Don’t Forget the Curtain Rod

Curtain rods are not just functional—they also contribute to the overall aesthetic of your curtains. There are many materials and finishes to choose from, including metal, wood, and wrought iron.

For my living room, I picked a simple metal curtain rod with a brushed nickel finish. It matched the other hardware in the room and added a touch of elegance.

Also, consider the length of the curtain rod. It should extend beyond the window frame so that the curtains can be fully opened without blocking the light. Lastly, make sure the rod is sturdy enough to support the weight of your curtains.

My Experience with EASYLIFE

During my curtain shopping journey, I discovered a website called EASYLIFE, which offered free fabric samples. This allowed me to choose the right styles and colors for each room in my home.

When my order arrived, I was delighted by the texture and quality of the fabrics. I confirmed the colors, pleat styles, and measurements before finalizing my choices.

I ended up purchasing my curtains from EASYLIFE, and I was very satisfied with their quality and design. I bought linen curtains for my living room and velvet curtains for my bedroom. They are durable and have added a touch of elegance to my home.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right curtains may seem like a daunting task, but with a little planning and consideration, you can find the perfect ones for your home. Think about your needs, measure accurately, choose the right fabric and style, and don’t forget the curtain rod.

With the right curtains, your home can feel cozier, more stylish, and truly reflect your personality. Happy curtain shopping!