The first curtains may well have been a piece of animal skin hung by cave dwellers to keep the elements out. Or what about the dessert people who used wet pieces of cloth for their windows as protection against the heat and dust? For centuries the use of curtains has evolved. Before the Industrial revolution, only the rich and royal were able to afford to hang drapes in their homes. The advent of the age of machinery paved the way for an increase in textile production. From then on, textile for curtains became more and more affordable. The types of textile materials varies.

Curtains were highly customised items before. Though there are still those who prefer to have their curtains custom-made, there are tons of ready-made curtains available in shops now. You have a wide range of choices from the type of material to the style of curtains. The type of curtain used actually depends a lot on the decor and ambiance of an area. Formal dining rooms need to have elegant satin curtains whilst the kid’s playroom can be draped with printed cotton ones.

A curtain is a curtain. The difference in style or type does not affect the “body” of the curtain as only the top part or curtain headings are customised for a different curtain style. There are several types of headings made for curtains thus translating to different types of curtains.

Cased heading is probably the simplest type. This type is made by sewing a casing or channel across the top whilst the ends are left open. A slim curtain rod is slid through the channel and is then fitted into hooks or sockets near the window ends. Anyone who can operate a sewing machine can do this. Note that only light materials with no backing are ideal for case heading curtains.

Tab top headings are simple and informal. The heading is made of fabric loops that are stitched on the top seam so that there is no more need for a heading tape. This type of curtain is fitting for any fabric but more appropriate for poles and not for slim rods.

Box pleated headings are full-tailored drapes from top to bottom. The pleats are sewn next to each other without unnecessary spacing or interval in between. Most curtain makers do the box pleats by hand as it gives a more professional and finished look. Box pleat curtain headings takes time to sew but the outcome is well worth the trouble.

The French or pinch pleated curtain headings are created by pleating the fabric into a fan of three pleats, drawing them together then stitching them some 5 to 6 inches from the top to make a fan-like fold. The length of the curtain will have an elegant and formal finish and is therefore more suitable for heavy drapes. The heading has hooks that are attached to the curtain pole. Other forms of headings are eyelet curtain headings and pencil pleated headings.

Author Bio: There are several types of curtain headings that you can choose for your curtains to best suit your interior. Find out where you can buy stylish and beautiful curtains for your home.

Category: Home Management
Keywords: curtain shops, curtains