Best Curtain Hardware and Software from Rods to Tie Backs

February 9, 2017

When it comes to drapery accessories, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the sheer number of choices.

Should you go with a wood rod or a classic brass pole with finials? Do you want fabric tiebacks that complement your custom curtains or iron simple holdbacks that match your hardware?

Not only is hardware the backbone of your custom window treatment, it’s also a proper mix of function and beauty. These small details can largely determine what statement you’re trying to make.

Fortunately, you don’t have to be an expert to weigh in on the decision making process. This primer will help you navigate the ins and outs of the necessary accessories that accompany your soft furnishings.

The Rundown on Rods

Understanding your hardware options is an important first step in planning your drapery’s overall look. Rods are responsible for displaying your curtains to the world. As an essential part of any window treatment, they must first and foremost be equipped to handle the job.

However, they’re also a decorative piece of the overall project that is partially responsible for communicating your room style. Since you’ll rarely have hardware that’s completely hidden from view, it’s important to know your options.

• Classic Rod– Custom made to accommodate any window widths. Most have ornamental end caps known as finials. There is a dizzying range of styles and artisan finishes, and this piece single handedly says so much about your personal style. Let GP Drapery make recommendations that can match existing iron finishes. You can also double up the rod to add a layer of sheer panels under your over drapery.
• Return Rod– If you’re implementing blackout curtains, you may request this U-shaped rod. Due to its unique shape, drapery panels fit along the curved edges to keep light out.
• Track Traversing– This option is a sophisticated way to uphold curtains above a sliding glass door or ceiling height window treatments in your home theater. Traversing tracks help curtains glide seamlessly with drapery hooks connected to carriers inside of a track.

Tackling Tiebacks

Though relatively small in comparison to your custom curtains, tiebacks are a major design factor in pulling a room together.
They’re a primary way to accessorize formal drapery. These decorative custom fabric ties can be fashioned from the drapery itself or in the form of a cord, tassel or metallic holdback that mounts to the wall.
Tiebacks keep curtains open when you want to let light in or showcase a lovely outdoor view and can be easily removed for instant privacy. They also create beautiful lines when in use and can be a permanent part of the overall aesthetic.
How high you choose to mount a bracket or rosette is more of a personal choice, but many designers recommend going at least two-thirds down from the top of your window. No matter which height you choose, mounting the right tieback in the right place is important to keep your drapery looking proportionate.
In the end, the hardware and software you choose should embody the feeling you’re trying to convey. From upmarket sophistication to traditional accouterments and clean lines, GP Drapery has everything you need from finials and finishes. Contact us to start your installation.

 

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