Window Treatments - Types of Window Treatments

The window treatment that you choose for your windows can change how your rooms look. With all of the available options, it can be hard deciding which way to go. Here are some popular types of window treatments.

Curtains

Curtains can be very versatile and make excellent window treatments. You will find that curtains come in all shades, textures and styles. Using curtains provides you with a wealth of decorating options. You can just let the fabric drape, sweep it back to one side, or tie it to make an hourglass shape.

If you're good at sewing, you can make your own curtains for a fraction of the cost. Simply choose fabric in the color and texture that you desire and use a pattern or your imagination to create your own window treatments.

Blinds and Shades

If you want to keep out the light and ensure your privacy, blinds and shades make great window treatments. Like curtains, blinds and shades come in a variety of different shades, textures and styles. Here are some of the most common:

• Mini-Blinds: Mini-blinds are very versatile and can be incorporated into almost any room. Many people combine mini-blinds with other window treatments. Most mini-blinds are made from aluminum or vinyl (horizontal) slats and come in a variety of colors.
• Vertical Blinds: Vertical blinds are a practical window treatment. They are great for high-traffic areas and block light well. Vertical blinds can also help insulate your house from the heat or the cold.
• Roller Blinds: Roller blinds have been around for a very long time. Most roller blinds consist of a stiff piece of fabric that has been wrapped around a wooden roller. Spring mechanisms allow blinds to be raised or lowered to any position.
• Roman Shades: Roman shades or Roman blinds are beautiful window treatments that are usually made of curtain-type fabric. Using a cord and dowel method, these shades are drawn up from the bottom in soft folds.

Valances

A valance is a small, and sometimes puffy, piece of fabric that is held up by a curtain rod at the top of a window. Because it offers no privacy and keeps out no light, a valance is for decorative purposes only. For this reason, many people choose to combine valances and mini-blinds.

With a minor sewing knowledge, valances are easily created.

Unconventional Window Treatments

Just about any material can be made into a window treatment. Use your imagination and creativity to create unconventional window treatments that fit your style and décor. Here are some things you could try.

• Drape a beautiful piece of fabric around an elaborate curtain rod.
• Create a mural using stick-on window material.
• Use wire, clothespins and photos to make an unconventional valance.
• Wrap an old curtain in scarves and handkerchiefs.