Pairing made-to-measure curtains with blinds or shutters creates a sophisticated layered look whilst delivering practical benefits for your home. This combination offers superior light control, enhanced privacy, improved insulation, and a polished aesthetic that elevates any room. Properly installed, these layered window treatments can become the focal point of your interior design.
Planning Your Layered Window Treatment
Measuring for Success
Before ordering your made-to-measure curtains to complement existing blinds or shutters, precise measurements are crucial:
-
Width considerations: Measure the total width you wish to cover, including any overlap beyond the window frame (typically 15-20 cm on each side for optimal light blocking and a luxurious gathered appearance).
-
Height placement: For curtains over blinds or shutters, position the curtain pole or track approximately 15-20cm above the top of your blinds/shutters and extend it 15-20cm beyond each side of the window frame.
-
Drop length: Measure from where your curtain pole or track will be positioned down to your desired endpoint—either floor-skimming (1cm above the floor), pooling (extra 2-5cm for an elegant puddled effect), or sill-length for specific applications.
Selecting Compatible Hardware
The right hardware ensures your layered window treatment functions seamlessly:
-
Curtain poles: Choose poles with a diameter of 30-50mm for heavier curtains. Position them 15-20cm above blinds/shutters.
-
Tracks: Silent glide tracks work particularly well when layering curtains over other window treatments as they allow for smooth operation without disturbing the blinds or shutters beneath.
-
Brackets: Extended brackets provide necessary clearance between curtains and blinds/shutters (typically 7-12cm projection from the wall).
Installation Guide
Step 1: Install the Curtain Hardware
-
Mark your bracket positions 15-20cm above existing blinds/shutters.
-
Ensure brackets extend far enough from the wall (typically 7-12cm) to allow curtains to hang without catching on blinds or shutters.
-
Use appropriate wall fixings for your wall type (plasterboard, masonry, etc.).
-
Install brackets, then attach poles or tracks according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Step 2: Prepare Your Made-to-Measure Curtains
-
For pole-hung curtains, thread rings or eyelets onto the pole.
-
For track-hung curtains, attach hooks to the heading tape or gliders to the track.
-
Distribute fabric evenly along the pole or track.
Step 3: Adjust for Perfect Layering
-
Open and close both layers separately to ensure smooth operation.
-
Adjust curtain length if necessary for the perfect drop.
-
Train curtains to fall in elegant folds by hand-styling them when first hung.
Styling Tips for Different Combinations
Curtains Over Venetian Blinds
This popular combination offers excellent light control. For the most cohesive look, choose curtains in complementary tones to your blinds, perhaps drawing on accent colours from your room's palette. Linen-blend curtains paired with wooden Venetian blinds create a particularly sophisticated effect.
Curtains With Roman Blinds
This pairing offers a softer aesthetic. Consider using the same fabric for both elements in different weights, or complementary patterns from the same colour family. Mount curtains high above Roman blinds to create height in the room.
Curtains Over Shutters
For this classic combination, ensure curtains can be drawn completely clear of shutters when open. Full-length curtains work beautifully with café-style or tier-on-tier shutters, allowing for multiple privacy and light options.
Common Questions
How much space do I need between blinds/shutters and curtains? Allow at least 7-12cm of space between your blinds/shutters and where your curtains will hang to prevent interference.
Can I use any curtain heading with blinds or shutters? While all headings can work, wave and eyelet headings often operate most smoothly alongside other window treatments as they stack back neatly when open.
Are there specific fabrics that work better for layered treatments? Mid-weight fabrics typically work best for layered treatments—heavy enough to hang beautifully but not so heavy as to make operation difficult.
By carefully planning your layered window treatment, you'll create a stunning design feature that perfectly balances form and function in your home.