There is a process for designing window treatments that ensures the end result is amazing. I always start with the purpose, is it decorative or functional? Who is it intended for; a child’s room, a formal dining room, a cozy den the primary bedroom? From there, I narrow it down to fabric choices, pleat style and how best to line and fabricate it. But it doesn’t stop there…how will this gorgeous new drapery be installed? If there’s a valance, just a basic white track will do. However, if there is no valance, I want the drapery hardware to speak volumes. The esthetic of the room as well as the room’s occupant are important considerations.

This is where the fun begins because there is so much to choose from!

But first: rule #1, when investing in custom curtains, never, ever use anything less than custom made hardware. In my experience, there’s nothing worse than telescoping hardware (curtain rods that expand to fit the size of the window). The curtain rings won’t glide across that lumpy seam where the two pieces fit inside one another, and the rod often sags with the weight of the drapery.

I avoid these problems by using the correct hardware made to fit and sturdy enough for the weight of the draperies I’m designing. And the best part is that there is so much more to choose from! As an experienced drapery professional I have a ton of options and suppliers to choose from. I know exactly what hardware will work for which treatment in terms of style, stability and function.

Now that we’ve covered off the importance of selecting the perfect hardware for your new draperies, check out this post on how to up-level your custom curtain designs and turn window treatments into window fashions.