French curtains these are curtains known to all, often decorating wedding palaces, concert halls, halls in houses of culture and other public institutions. They appeared in the distant 18th century in France, and were used only in the palaces and reception rooms of kings and other wealthy nobility. This is due to the fact that fabrics for such chic curtains it took a lot, it was of high quality and very expensive.
Today, with a wide variety of materials on the market, any connoisseur of medieval interior decoration can afford to sew or purchase ready-made French curtains. In this article, we have collected detailed information about what French curtains are, what is the best way to sew them and where to hang them.
French curtains are a large rectangular sheet of fabric, gathered along its entire length in uniform, fluffy folds that form scallops. Initially, according to history, French curtains were static, today they are equipped with a cornice with a lifting mechanism, which greatly simplifies their use, because by themselves such curtains cannot move apart and open a window.
Although before the French curtain was exclusively floor-length, now its length can be different: to the floor, to the windowsill, and just below the windowsill. And it is no longer possible to hang such lush curtains not only on big windows in a spacious room, but also in more modest apartments. Decorated and continue to decorate solemn French women with fringes and tassels.
French curtains in the interior can be either daytime - from a transparent fabric, and nighttime from a dense one. In any case, the choice of material for such curtains must be taken responsibly so that the legendary jewelry looks presentable and dignified.
For the manufacture of French curtains, much more fabric is required than for ordinary curtains, so before buying fabric, you should definitely determine whether this decor suits your interior or not, do you like curtains with lush scallops?
For curtains
The most important thing in the presentation of French curtains is the beauty and splendor of the folds, and only high-quality fabrics can cope with this and they should have the following properties: lightness, density, softness and pliability for draperies. Here is a list of the best fabrics for fine curtains:
Organza is a dense fabric and folds on it are very clear and even, and it also has a shiny coating over the entire surface, which will help to convey all its beauty to the curtains and bring us as close as possible to the era of the reign of King Louis XIV. Veil and chiffon fabrics that are lighter in structure and folds on such curtains will be airy. Muslin is a natural fabric and very thin, so if you want to sew French curtains from it, you should take into account that the folds may turn out to be not as pompous as from organza, but simpler.
French curtains can be either an independent decor on the windows, or be combined with dense curtains of a classic cut.
French curtains made of thick fabric can decorate your window at night. The material for such a decor needs very dense to darken the room well, and soft, forming graceful folds.
This could be:
A velvet French curtain as in the photo below is always rich and luxurious, the only drawback of such a fabric is the rapid accumulation of dust. The satin looks solemn because of its play in the light, and the soft texture allows you to form folds. Natural fibers of cotton or flax can also be used in French curtains and decorate the interior, especially since they are perfectly breathable.
Additional curtains for dense French women will not be required, as this will overload the window and the whole environment.
Fabric color
Depending on your interior and its colors, you can choose French curtains of any tone. Most often, these are monochromatic models, since the pattern can simply get lost in numerous folds. To give a solemn atmosphere to the room, snow-white, gold or milky curtains are suitable. Blue and salad shades look more gentle and romantic. For blackout curtains, it is better to choose more dark shades: burgundy, blue, brown, red.
Today, in order to hang aristocratic curtains at home, it is not necessary to decorate the whole room in the style of a royal castle, but it is still worth considering some points to create a harmonious image.
Kitchen
French curtains of a short cut are often hung in the kitchen, it is very convenient if they are equipped with a lifting cornice. In general, the interior of the kitchen can be in a modern way, then the fabric will be simple: a light transparent veil, plain or with a small pattern. Complement this window decor contrasting color lambrequin and tassels along the bottom edge.
In a spacious bedroom, you can hang long French organza curtains and complement the look with thick classic curtains. If the window is above the bed or sofa, then short French women will come in handy. As for the colors, here the choice is completely yours. Psychologists advise using a minimum of contrasting combinations in the rest room and choosing calm colors: beige, sand, muted green or blue.
In the bedroom, lifting curtains are more relevant than ever - the French ones in this photo fit perfectly into the classic interior
The living room is a central place in any home, where guests are received, family holidays are held. Therefore, the atmosphere should be appropriate. Formal curtains with many folds will perfectly cope with the function of a festive decor and will live up to your expectations. If in the living room there are two or more windows on one wall at once, then you can hang one wide curtain the width of the entire wall. Or you can decorate each window with separate sets of curtains with additional curtains.
Lush lambrequins with flounces, fringes and tassels will emphasize the high cost of curtains and decoration.
French curtains are a unique and unconventional way to decorate windows at home. With the right choice for a particular room, you will create a festive and cozy atmosphere at home.
They are lush flowing draperies formed from even semicircular folds of fabric (scallops), laid along the entire height. French curtains will perfectly decorate the window opening, which together with them will be distinguished by sophistication and luxury. Traditionally, French curtains are used to give a room more solemnity, splendor, both in public and private interiors. French curtains were born in the 18th century, when solemnity, luxury and splendor were in fashion. Much time has passed since then, but these curtains continue to successfully fit into almost any interior.
French curtains together with are among the roller blinds. The main principle by which they are used is a lifting mechanism that allows the canvases not to be pushed to the sides, but to be lifted in the upper part of the window. At the same time, beautiful wavy folds are preserved along the entire length. The main difference between these two types of curtains is that French curtains always keep folds along their entire length, whether they are up or down, while Austrian curtains keep soft folds only at the bottom edge of the curtain.
Usually, in the manufacture of French curtains, thin and light are used. fabrics- cambric, silk, other materials in pastel and light colors. Also, some use transparent tulle of any colors and shades, veil, organza. At the same time, the main requirement for fabrics is elasticity, which ensures the drapery with soft folds. Recently, when sewing French curtains, modern fabrics have been used, for example, polyester, which surpasses silk in practicality, is easy to wash, does not fade, does not shrink, but at the same time it gives the appearance of rigidity and creates lush folds.
French curtains are often combined with classic curtains with tassels and lambrequins.
Application
Since its inception, French curtains have been used to drape the windows of royal banquet and ballrooms, reception rooms and bedrooms. Very often, when sewing them, they used the same fabric as the walls of the room were upholstered. Also, many people associate French curtains with theaters, offices, restaurants, assembly halls. Nowadays, French curtains have found their use not only for decorating the interiors of the Kremlin, but also for luxurious mansions and stylish apartments.
If such a curtain is hung in the hall, then an elegant atmosphere will be created at the entrance to the house.
At the same time, the window opening in the bedroom can be decorated with French curtains, giving a relaxed and romantic look to the interior, and at the same time a kind of privacy. In a room with wide windows, you can use the simplest option for placing French curtains in the interior. To do this, hang 2-3 narrow French curtains of various lengths on the window (for example, to the middle of the window, to the window sill, to the floor). This option looks good on its own, without additional curtains.
There is a classification of French curtains, according to which they are divided into two categories:
You can make French strength on your own, because the way of sewing them is very simple. The fabric consumption for these curtains is one and a half times more in width and 2 times more in height from the dimensions of the finished product. The maximum width and length allows for rich and luxurious assemblies. The fabric of the future curtain is divided by cords into symmetrical vertical sections. The maximum area of the finished French curtain is 8 sq. M. larger area installation and operation difficulties may arise.
So, French curtains are a classic, noble, luxurious beauty that will fill your home with an atmosphere of warmth and comfort, and, moreover, revitalize and ennoble it.
Recently, French curtains are most often seen in kitchens, although they are also chosen for halls and halls. It is worth dwelling in more detail on how the models from France differ from all the others.
Many people wonder what it is - French curtains. It is not for nothing that the luxurious decorations of the Renaissance palaces immediately come to mind. Indeed, French curtains look pompous and solemn. A French curtain is a fabric gathered with folds, due to which beautiful draperies are formed. Depending on the model, these curtains can either be pulled up or left in a static position. It is difficult to care for such curtains. They are difficult to clean as dust collects in the folds and eats into the fabric. And also the disadvantage is the huge consumption of fabric, due to which such a model is heavier than analogues, for example, Roman blinds.
There are a huge number of varieties of French curtains. They are subdivided by length, type of braid, density of fabric. Most important, however, is the division according to the way in which the curtains are attached. They are divided into two types.
When choosing which curtain to hang - blind or folding, you should focus on the practicality of the chosen option. If it is necessary to open a window from time to time, then it is advisable to hang a folding curtain. If it is not at all necessary to open the window, then stationary option more rational.
If earlier French curtains were sewn only from expensive elite fabrics, today the choice is huge. Curtains are made from both natural and artificial materials, they can be both light and dense. They also differ in price. Technologies are such that even not the most expensive fabric can perfectly repel dust and at the same time look attractive. Depending on the room, both translucent flying materials and dense fabrics for curtains. The main condition is sufficient elasticity of the fabric, otherwise it will not work to create characteristic scallops. By the way, you should not mistake models that have folds only at the bottom for French curtains. The name of such curtains is Austrian curtains.
Today, the following materials are most often used:
As for the color, traditionally French curtains are made in pastel colors: white, ivory, beige. This statement is also true for thick curtains, and for tulle models. Interesting solution- bright French curtains. Burgundy and emerald colors are perfect for heavy curtains. Solar yellow choose for kitchens. Blue or pink can be used both in the kitchen and in the nursery, provided that the curtains are made of flying materials.
The combination of colors can be different. Often, French curtains are complemented by lambrequins, which can be made from the same fabric as the main canvas, but in a different colors. For example, the following combinations are common:
French curtains can be successfully integrated into almost any interior, including options devoid of sophistication such as country or rustic. Much depends on the length of the curtains, their type, as well as on the design features. For example, it is much more appropriate to choose blind curtains of medium length for a kitchen with a country interior, made of catchy chintz fabric, rather than heavy curtains on the floor made of velvet. First you need to decide for which room the French curtains are selected. The kitchen and bedroom options will vary. If for the kitchen, first of all, you need to pay attention to the functionality of the material, then in the bedroom you can pick up curtains of their more brand, but fabric that is pleasant to the touch. It is also important to pay attention to whether the material is hypoallergenic, especially when buying French curtains for a nursery.
Currently, French curtains are most often chosen specifically for the kitchen, so it makes sense to consider in detail the three most popular directions in which these rooms are furnished. So, you can often see modern dining areas furnished in classic style or rustic. All three options are universal, that is, they are suitable for both large and small kitchens. Depending on financial capabilities, curtains are selected.
It would seem that purchasing French curtains for a modern interior is not entirely appropriate, but in reality everything turns out to be wrong. Depending on the fabric and the length of the curtains themselves, they may look less intricate and sophisticated than usual. A good option is natural fabrics such as linen. Linen curtains do not stain much, but the fabric drapes well. A wide range of colors and patterns will allow you to choose the right model for each specific interior. The only downside is the price. Linen is an expensive fabric, especially with all kinds of additives that make it easier to care for.
And also in modern interiors you can often see tulle curtains just below the window sill or up to the middle of the window. There are advantages to choosing this option. For example, you don't have to worry about the room being too dark. Tulle transmits light well, while protecting the room from prying eyes. True, complete privacy cannot be achieved with the help of such curtains.
In any case, for a modern interior, it is worth choosing the maximum simple options without a lot of decor. For example, you don't need to look for curtains with lambrequins. One tape along the edge will be enough, although most often you can do without it. And also the fabric should be with a simple, elegant decor, without cheap shine and overflows.
The curtains are most harmonious in French style look exactly in classic interiors... This also includes a more pretentious baroque style, which differs from the classics by the presence of a huge amount of gilding, intricate details in decoration and similar excesses. Accordingly, French curtains must fully meet the style requirements.
Important! This option not suitable for the kitchen. If kitchen area decorated in a classic style, it is better to choose a different type of curtain.
It would seem that there is nothing more strange than French curtains in a country room. In fact, things are a little different. Such curtains, made of light, bright fabric with a pattern, look quite appropriate and even emphasize the deliberate simplicity of the interior. The main thing is to choose the right length, colors and material. First of all, it is worth making a reservation that the French curtain in a country room should not fall below the middle of the window, because it is the slightly open window that will make the curtains less formal. If the window faces the sunny side and you want to lower the curtains from time to time, then you should choose the folding option. So, you can, if necessary, close the curtains, and after the sun disappears, return the room to its original appearance.
Almost any materials will do, but it is important that they are not luxurious. Chintz will fit well. But making French curtains from tulle is not worth it, unless you choose a mesh version with embroidery. Any fabric should look like it was made by hand, so patchwork is encouraged. As for the colors, they will look good bright colours and combinations. Checkered curtains are classics of the genre, especially when it comes to kitchen window... And also curtains with a print a la applique and painted under patchwork will look good.
Beautiful elements in modern design living space are able to provide comfort and harmony in your home. Today, French curtains in the interior are considered a fairly popular option for decorating window space. Thanks to them, a warm and mysterious atmosphere appears in the room. They are often used in country estates and spacious apartments.
You can create such a model yourself at home. Our material presents detailed instructions how to sew French curtains effortlessly. All the subtleties of the workflow are noted here.
Advice from experienced professionals will help you make the correct calculation of the material and the frequency of weightless waves.
Curtain fabrics may contain small amounts of lurex. A beautiful shine in the sun will add a touch of luxury to the interior space.
Awning curtains are often used in classic design... They will become a real decoration for your home. There are several criteria when choosing a fabric for sewing curtains:
Ready-made roman blinds can be complemented with a beautiful lambrequin. A luxurious duo of dense and airy materials create a truly sophisticated design.
Awning curtains require a competent combination of fabrics and materials. You can create beautiful flowing waves using several types of fabric. The veil is in perfect harmony with thin organza. It also looks good when paired with heavy satin or natural linen.
You can add decorative elements using voluminous grabs or beautiful beads enclosed in a long shiny cord. During drapery, crystal bugles will gently descend along the edges of the air waves.
There is a certain methodology that provides for all the subtleties of the workflow. As noted above, the first step is to correctly calculate the distance between the waves.
To do this, the length is multiplied by 2 and the required distance for the allowances is added. Basically it is 4-6 cm from each edge. At the bottom, a 5 cm allowance is made. As you can see, everything is quite simple.
For sewing a small curtain, you need 3-4 m of air veil. The size finished curtains will be 2 m. These parameters are enough to decorate a small window opening.
At the beginning of the workflow, it is recommended to decide on the model. There are several types of curtains, which differ in the number of folds on the surface of the fabric. Modern options provide for the presence of a secret drawstring, which will regulate the assembly of the material.
The pattern is a large rectangle with additional marks for the hidden lace. The distance between them is calculated based on your preference.
It is worth noting that the closely spaced drapery creates lush curtain patterns that are suitable for the living room or bedroom.
The algorithm for self-creation of French curtains consists of several stages:
Such lightweight curtain designs will become a real decoration for a bedroom, kitchen, living room or even a balcony. They are able to fill the interior with an atmosphere of lightness and romance. Even in ancient times, they were used to decorate luxurious castles and estates.
Today they are used in Baroque, Rococo or Classical styles. They will never go out of interior fashion. The photo of French curtains captured best options for window space decoration.
