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We all love to select drapery hardware! It's jewelry for the room, an accessory that can be subtle or bold — but always makes a significant impact.
While the drapery's style and fabric are very important, including hardware selection in the beginning of the design process will save you valuable time in the end. Your design may require specific components that aren't offered in every hardware collection. Considering the hardware early ensures that it will meet the needs of your design.
This article addresses several questions you will need to consider as you are finishing your hardware selection. Enjoy!
Getting Started
Do you want the fabric or the hardware to be the star?
Basic functional hardware disappears into the background, highlighting the fabric. Decorative hardware makes a design statement and creates a focal point.
What is the design style?
Traditional? Transitional? Contemporary? Drapery hardware can reinforce your style choice by complementing the other elements in the room.
Finish the Process
Once you have a direction for your design, a few more details will finish the process!
Will you use finials?
Finials are the real accessory. If you are considering a decorative drapery rod with finials, you may want to choose the finials first. They are unique to each hardware collection and this choice will drive the rest of your selections.
End caps are available for some decorative rods. They will finish off the rod but not take up extra room in tight spaces.
Do you have a desired finish in mind?
Finishes on decorative hardware can set the mood. Aim for subtlety by matching the other finishes in the room, or inspire boldness with contrasting finishes. And don't be afraid to mix metals in the home!
Once you have decided on a finish for the room, find a collection that offers it.
How will your drapery function?
Do you want traversing drapery, which can be opened and closed? Or do you prefer stationary side panels that remain in the open position?
If traversing, you will need to decide how you want to operate the drapery. The draperies will be used every day, so the method of operation is an important decision. There are several options and not all options are available in all hardware collections.
- Hand or Baton Drawn: Check that the draperies can be reached to draw them open or closed by hand or baton. Keep in mind that handling can soil or damage white or light fabrics over time.
- Cord Drawn: Offered on a few traversing rods, cords are used to operate the drapery and help hold the fabric in place when open or closed. Be sure you can access the cord while keeping it out of reach from children and pets.
- Motorized: A great solution for hard‑to‑reach drapery. Remember to review the motor specifications for guidance on weight limitations.
Where will the drapery be mounted?
Do you plan to mount the drapery on the wall or the ceiling? How much space do you have for the brackets?
These questions go hand‑in‑hand. Where you want to mount the drapery will tell you what type of bracket you'll need. Yet if space is limited, your bracket options determine where you are able to mount the drapery.
Not all drapery hardware collections offer both wall and ceiling brackets. So your hardware options may ultimately depend on the bracket design.
Do you need a single rod or a double rod?
Double rods can offer great flexibility for light control at the window. You can layer draperies from sheers to blackout‑lined fabric for the ideal effect. But double rods aren't offered in every hardware collection.
You may be able to create the same look by mounting single rods from different collections independently. Confirm that the bracket designs will work well together and that your drapery returns are the correct size for each bracket.
As you now know, not all drapery hardware collections offer every combination of design solution that you may need. Carole Fabrics offers a wide selection of hardware from brands such as Paris Texas Hardware, Magnolia Hardware, and Forest Drapery Hardware.
With such a wide range of available styles, from traditional to contemporary, it's easier than ever to select drapery hardware on carolenet.com that will complement your custom handcrafted draperies and finish your room's design with style!
Susan Pfingst
National Training Coordinator
With over 35 years in the Home Design Industry, Susan brings her extensive experience in design and sales. Training is her passion and she looks forward to sharing her insight!