How Much Do Curtains Cost

Looking to spruce up your home with some new curtains? Good choice! It’s a great way to improve your home’s light control and privacy.

But if you’re having a hard time figuring out how much these window treatments should cost, you’re in the right place. In this cost guide, we’ll give you some insights on what to look for and an accurate estimate of how much they’re going to be.

Fabric

To keep things simple, let’s categorise fabric choices into two simple groups – Luxury and Budget-Friendly.

Luxury Fabrics

Natural fibres such as silk and linen are typically more expensive because it costs more to produce than synthetics. And in some cases, fabrics in this category are handmade, making them even more expensive.

Budget-Friendly

If you’re on a tighter budget, you can opt for more affordable synthetic fabrics like polyester, nylon, and rayon. In general, these are easier to work with and cost less than natural fibres because they’re mass-produced in factories, not handmade by artisans.

Size

When it comes to curtain size, you can go in one of two ways: standard or custom.

Standard Sizes

There are three ready-to-hang standard lengths that curtain-makers typically produce: 214cm, 240cm, and 275cm. Standard widths, on the other hand, are 110cm, 170cm, and 230cm. Generally, the larger the fabric, the more expensive curtains get. But, compared to custom sizes, these are still less expensive as they’re readily available at stores or ready to ship from warehouses.

Custom Sizes

If you have more bespoke window sizes, such as giant bay windows, then you’re going to need to custom order your curtains. This will be more expensive because it’s a labour-intensive process that requires more time and effort from both you and the curtain maker.

Style

One subtle yet effective way to add visual interest to your windows is by playing with the style of your curtains. By choosing a different pattern or colour, you’ll be able to add a whole new dimension to your home.

Simple Designs

From the classic pleated and goblet style curtains to tie-tops and pencil pleat drapes, there’s a wide variety of curtains to choose from. But, if you want to save money, a simple style like the classic rod pocket curtain can do the job.

Other than the rod pocket, here are other simple design options you can choose from:

• Sheer Curtains: Made from a lightweight semi-transparent fabric that allows light to come through.
• Tab Top Curtains: These curtains have loops of fabric sewn into or onto the curtain top section, ideal for casual or contemporary decor.
• Single Panel Curtains: These consist of just one panel of fabric and are great for smaller windows or sliding doors.

Elaborate Designs

Of course, you can go the other way and opt for elaborate designs to help your windows stand out even more. For instance, the goblet style is an excellent choice if you aim to create a more formal ambiance in your room. The pleated style is another popular choice because it creates the illusion of space in a small window.

• Pleated Curtains: These have pinches at the top, creating fuller pleats and a gathered look.
• Velvet Curtains: Velvet curtains offer a luxurious appeal and generally come in a plethora of colours.

Additional Features

Another factor that can influence your curtain project’s final cost is the additional features that you choose to include. For example, if you want your curtains to be blackout curtains or lined with some other fabric, this will increase the final product’s price tag.

Lining

While blackout linings are perhaps the most popular lining you can find, there are plenty of other useful lining options to choose from. Thermal fabric lining, for example, can help insulate your home from outdoor temperatures. Acoustic drapes, on the other hand, can help deaden sound from the outside from coming into your home.

Here’s the additional costs you’ll incur if you have want these add-ons:

Hardware

Additional hardware such as curtain rods, tie-backs, grommets, and hooks can also add to the project’s final price. You can even add a motor for the one-touch opening and closing of your curtains if you wish. Be ready to pay a premium for such add-ons.

Where to Buy

Two of the most common places you can buy your curtains are online and in retail stores.

Online Retailers

You can find many different kinds of curtains and drapes on sites like Amazon and eBay, for example. You can also order directly from the manufacturer online.

However, ordering online can be a bit of a gamble. You won’t get to see or feel the curtains before you buy them, so it can be difficult to make sure they are what you want. If you order online, be sure to read all of the reviews and ask questions before placing an order.

Retail Stores

You can also find many local businesses specializing in selling window treatments. We recommend checking out your local curtain shops before making any purchases online. If you’re worried about higher prices than what’s advertised online, don’t be! Many stores offer discounts or coupons on their websites, so you don’t have to pay full price for a new set of drapes.

Maximising Your Dollars on Curtains

Whether you’re ordering online or from physical stores, you can save on curtains by understanding your specific curtain requirements. Whether it’s for practical purposes like privacy control, thermal insulation, soundproofing, or primarily for aesthetics, it’s crucial to determine your top priorities. This should help you narrow down your options and make it easier to find the perfect curtains for your home.