Floor length curtains size plays a crucial role in enhancing the aesthetic appeal of any room. These elegant window treatments, reaching from the ceiling to the floor, create a sense of grandeur and sophistication. Understanding the intricacies of selecting the right size and material for floor length curtains can transform your living space. From measuring techniques to fabric choices, this guide delves into every aspect of floor length curtains, ensuring you make informed decisions that elevate your home decor. Let’s explore the world of full length drapes and discover how to achieve that perfect, polished look for your windows.
Understanding Floor Length Curtains: Definitions and Styles
Floor length curtains, also known as full length drapes, are window coverings that extend from the top of the window (or above) all the way to the floor. These elegant window treatments create a seamless, elongated look that can make your room appear taller and more spacious. The appeal of floor length curtains lies in their ability to add drama and sophistication to any space, whether it’s a formal living room or a cozy bedroom.
When it comes to styles, floor length curtains offer several options to suit different tastes and interior designs. The three main styles are:
- Puddle: This style features extra fabric that “puddles” on the floor, creating a luxurious and romantic look. Puddle curtains are ideal for formal settings and rooms with high ceilings.
- Break: Break curtains touch the floor with a slight fold or “break” in the fabric. This style strikes a balance between formality and practicality, suitable for most living spaces.
- Kissing: These curtains just barely touch the floor, creating a clean, tailored appearance. They’re perfect for modern interiors and spaces where a more minimalist look is desired.
The benefits of using complete length curtains are numerous. They provide excellent insulation, helping to keep your room warm in winter and cool in summer. Full height drapes also offer superior light control, allowing you to adjust the amount of natural light entering your space. Additionally, these curtains provide enhanced privacy and can even help reduce outside noise, creating a more serene indoor environment.
When selecting materials for extended length curtains, you have a wide array of options. Popular choices include:
- Linen: Light, airy, and perfect for a casual, relaxed look.
- Silk: Luxurious and elegant, ideal for formal spaces.
- Velvet: Rich and heavy, offering excellent insulation and light-blocking properties.
- Cotton: Versatile and easy to maintain, suitable for most rooms.
- Polyester blends: Durable and often wrinkle-resistant, great for high-traffic areas.
Each material has its unique characteristics, affecting not only the appearance but also the functionality of your floor length curtains. For instance, heavier fabrics like velvet are excellent for creating a cozy atmosphere and blocking out light, while lighter materials like linen allow for a softer, filtered light effect.
Measuring for Floor Length Curtains: A Step-by-Step Guide
Accurate measurements are crucial when selecting tall floor curtains. The right size ensures your curtains hang properly and create the desired effect. Here’s a comprehensive guide to measuring for floor length curtains:
Tools needed:
- Metal measuring tape
- Pencil and paper
- Step ladder (if necessary)
Step 1: Measure the window height
To determine the ideal length for your large floor curtains, start by measuring from the top of your window frame to the floor. If you plan to hang your curtains above the window frame (which can create the illusion of a taller window), measure from where you intend to place the curtain rod to the floor.
Step 2: Account for curtain rod placement
For a standard look, place the curtain rod about 4-6 inches above the window frame. For a more dramatic effect, you can position it even higher, closer to the ceiling. Add this additional height to your measurement.
Step 3: Determine curtain length
Based on your style preference (puddle, break, or kissing), add extra length to your measurement: – For kissing the floor: Add 1/2 inch to your measurement – For a slight break: Add 1-3 inches – For a puddle effect: Add 6-8 inches or more
Step 4: Measure window width
Measure the width of your window. To ensure fullness, multiply this measurement by 1.5 to 3, depending on how full you want your curtains to look. This will give you the total width of curtain panels you need.
Step 5: Consider odd-shaped windows
For bay windows or other uniquely shaped spaces, measure each section separately and consider using multiple curtain rods to follow the window’s contours.
Remember, when dealing with extra long curtains, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and go slightly longer. You can always hem curtains that are too long, but it’s much more challenging to lengthen curtains that are too short.
Choosing the Right Size: Factors to Consider
Selecting the appropriate size for your floor length curtains involves more than just measuring your windows. Several factors come into play to ensure your long panel curtains not only fit perfectly but also enhance your room’s overall aesthetic.
Standard sizes for floor length curtains typically range from 84 to 108 inches in length, with widths varying from 48 to 108 inches per panel. However, these standard sizes may not always be suitable for every window, especially if you have high ceilings or custom-sized windows. In such cases, opting for custom-sized large size curtains might be the best solution.
Curtain fullness is a crucial factor that significantly impacts the overall look of your window treatment. Fullness refers to the amount of fabric used in relation to the width of your window. For a luxurious, plush appearance, aim for a fullness of 2 to 2.5 times the width of your window. This means if your window is 60 inches wide, you’d want curtain panels that total 120 to 150 inches in width. For a more tailored, modern look, a fullness of 1.5 to 2 times the window width can suffice.
Room dimensions and ceiling height play a significant role in determining the ideal size for your floor length curtains. In rooms with high ceilings, hanging curtains close to the ceiling can create a sense of grandeur and make the space feel even larger. For rooms with standard ceiling heights, hanging curtains 4-6 inches above the window frame is generally recommended.
When it comes to selecting the appropriate length, consider the style you’re aiming for:
- Puddle: This luxurious style requires extra fabric, typically 6-8 inches more than the floor-to-rod measurement. It’s ideal for formal spaces but requires more maintenance.
- Break: A slight break, where the curtain just touches the floor with a small fold, is versatile and works well in most settings. Add 1-3 inches to your measurement for this effect.
- Kissing the floor: For a clean, tailored look, curtains should just graze the floor. This style is perfect for modern interiors and high-traffic areas.
Remember, the size of your floor length curtains can significantly impact the perceived size of your room. Hanging curtains higher and wider than your window frame can make windows appear larger and ceilings higher, enhancing the overall spaciousness of your room.
Proper installation and maintenance of your floor length curtains are crucial for achieving and maintaining that perfect look. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you install and care for your extra long curtains:
Installation:
- Mount the curtain rod: Install the rod 4-6 inches above the window frame and extend it 3-6 inches beyond each side of the window for optimal coverage.
- Hang the curtains: Use curtain rings or hooks to hang your panels. Ensure they’re evenly spaced for a uniform look.
- Adjust the length: Once hung, adjust the curtains to achieve your desired effect – whether that’s puddling, breaking, or just kissing the floor.
For a perfect fit, consider these tips:
- Use curtain weights at the bottom hem to help the fabric hang straight.
- Steam your curtains after hanging to remove any wrinkles and help them fall properly.
- If necessary, use hem tape or have your curtains professionally hemmed for an exact length.
Maintenance and cleaning methods vary depending on the fabric of your full length drapes:
- Linen and cotton: These can often be machine washed on a gentle cycle. Always check the care label first.
- Silk and velvet: These delicate fabrics typically require dry cleaning.
- Synthetic blends: Many can be machine washed, but always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Regular maintenance tips:
- Vacuum your curtains monthly using a brush attachment to remove dust and allergens.
- Spot clean stains immediately to prevent them from setting.
- Rotate your curtains periodically to ensure even wear, especially in rooms with direct sunlight.
Common issues with floor length curtains include shrinkage and stretching. To prevent shrinkage, always follow care instructions carefully and avoid exposing curtains to high heat. For stretching, particularly with heavier fabrics, consider using tie-backs or holdbacks to relieve some of the weight when the curtains are open.
Seasonal considerations are important for maintaining your floor length curtains. In summer, lined curtains can help block out heat and protect your interiors from fading due to sun exposure. In winter, heavy fabrics like velvet can provide additional insulation. Consider switching out your curtains seasonally for optimal comfort and protection year-round.
By following these installation and care tips, you can ensure your floor length curtains remain a stunning feature in your home for years to come. Remember, proper care not only maintains the appearance of your curtains but also extends their lifespan, making them a worthwhile investment in your home decor.
