The choice and application of curtains in the English style

If you want to add sophistication to your interior, try an English style window. English or London curtains will bring individuality and chic to the most common design. How to choose the right model for each room? What do you need to know and be able to do to sew English curtains with your own hands?

Features of the model

English curtains are one canvas that is raised and lowered with a cord. Rising, the curtain forms a beautiful deep fold, and small folds are created around the edges, resembling bows in shape. London curtains are very "fond" of additional decor, so decorative cords or beads are often used to decorate the canvases.

This type of curtain is a type of lifting curtains, and their fastening is carried out on a special cornice with a special lifting system. The main feature of the mechanism is that the canvas can be stopped at any height, since there is a self-braking function.

Externally, London curtains resemble Austrian ones, but there are also significant differences in design. So, for example, an English curtain has only two vertical lintels (at least three for a large window opening), while on Austrian models there are much more such longitudinal lintels.

There is also a similarity with French curtains, mainly in horizontal folds. Only they are gathered in flounces along the entire length, and on English curtains, a deep fold is located only in the lower part.

The curtain in the English style can be fixed in different ways, effectively emphasizing the strengths of the design. For example, the classic version is a window sash mount. It is also used to decorate a niche. Finally, the canvas can occupy the entire window opening or be located directly in front of the window.

The main advantage of the model is that it looks equally impressive both on large window openings and on modest kitchen windows - the main thing is to choose the right size of the canvas. In any case, such curtains look exquisite and emphasize the stylish interior design, in addition, they perfectly "get along" with other interior elements.

London curtains in different interiors

The popularity of English curtains is also explained by the fact that they can be used in the interiors of different rooms. If you like this design, then you can safely use it to decorate a window opening in the kitchen, living room, bedroom or nursery.

Living room

Volumetric curtains look spectacular on large windows in spacious living rooms. The room immediately takes on a luxurious look. The main thing is the right choice of color. Do not use finely patterned linens for living rooms. Visually, the room will appear smaller. It is important that the curtains are in harmony with the colors of the decoration and furniture. Very often, English curtains in the hall are combined with transparent tulle.Well, if you consider yourself an admirer of Roman curtains, then English curtains will perfectly "cope" with the role of the original lambrequin.

Bedroom

Coziness and comfort are paramount in the bedroom, and curtains play an important role in creating this atmosphere. Opt for chunky models, complemented by veiled curtains. Do not forget about the decor - voluminous brushes, braid and beads that harmoniously complement the canvas will make the room even more comfortable and pleasant to relax.

Choose curtains made from heavy, lightweight fabrics to provide reliable protection from light. By the way, even light curtains of the correct texture can do this, so feel free to make a choice in favor of beige, peach and pink English curtains.

Kitchen

The main task of curtains in the kitchen is not to interfere and not take up a lot of space, so choose models of small length, maximum to the windowsill. In addition, give up complex control mechanisms - let them complement English curtains in the bedroom or living room.

The colors of the curtains for the kitchen can be any: from delicate little flowers to a rough contrasting cage, it all depends on the chosen finishing materials and furniture.

How to choose a color scheme

The choice of color is important when decorating any interior. The shade of the curtains should be in harmony with the overall color scheme of the room. And English curtains are now available in a large assortment of colors, which means that you are guaranteed to find a suitable option for yourself.

A tartan plaid, a traditional British print, or an oversized floral print look the most advantageous. This color effectively complements natural wood furniture and brown-beige finishes.

Stripes in all their manifestations, not only look harmonious, but also help to correct the shape of the room. For example, vertical stripes (even in white and beige) will visually make the ceilings higher.

London curtains to match the wallpaper are a very original solution. The main thing is that the curtains and wallpapers are not exactly the same. Allow a "discrepancy" of one or two tones, and you will notice that the room looks very different. If there is a pattern on the wallpaper, repeat it on the curtains. The result is a complete and complete interior.

Choosing a fabric

Contemporary London curtains can be made from a wide variety of textiles. However, natural fabrics are preferable. Particular attention should be paid to the texture of the canvas, because it is she who will affect the splendor of the folds.

The most suitable options for English curtains are cotton, chintz, natural linen, jacquard, rep. Sometimes thick silk and taffeta are used.

Colors are preferable in pastel colors. But recently, more and more often you can find a combination of several styles and colors, for example: plain and strip, checkered and smooth, check and pattern.

Often, the material for curtains is chosen for upholstery. In this case, the interior looks very interesting and stylish. The main thing is without brute force, do not strive for 100% coincidence. As already mentioned, brushes, braid and cords can also take their rightful place in the design of a window opening, but here the main thing is a sense of proportion.

Diy English curtains

Each hostess sees the interior in her own way, and often the options for curtains offered in the salons are not satisfied. What to do? Sew English curtains with your own hands!

In fact, sewing English curtains is not such a difficult process. Here are some simple rules:

1. Take accurate measurements of the window opening. Measure the length of the curtain rod and determine the number of folds.
2. The width of one fold is on average 60 cm.
3. The length of the canvas should be 15-20 cm longer than the length from the eaves to the windowsill.
4. To create vertical folds, divide the width for one fold into four equal parts. This "operation" is carried out from two sides.
5. The bottom edge and side edges are processed in the usual way: a two centimeters bend is made and a line is laid. Adhesive tape is attached from the seamy side.
6. Then the rings are fixed with the lifting tape. The length of the belt should correspond to the lifting height of the belt.
7. The curtain is attached to the cornice.

If you want to "collect" a canvas of English curtains from different fabrics, then just connect 60 cm of different materials. If you prefer a stationary canvas (without ups and downs), then you do not need to fasten the ring with the tape.

There are some more interesting options for London curtains that are a little more complicated to perform. For example, a model with visual cuts. A lighter fabric is sewn inside each such incision, which, when draped, will look out and create a fan effect. Or an English curtain with a semicircular fold. Curtains of four folds, fixed on the side, look unusual.

To make you happy with the result, remember a simple rule: the more luxuriant you want the curtains, the wider the fabric at the cornice should be. If you follow the rules exactly, the manufacturing process will not take you much time, and the result will definitely not disappoint.

The popularity of London curtains is also due to the ease of maintenance. Due to the folds, dust practically does not fall on the canvas. And since the curtain is attached to the cornice with duct tape, it can be easily removed for washing. After washing, it is enough to iron the curtain and hang it on the cornice.

English curtains are a great option for a classic style. With them, the room looks aristocratic and luxurious. Thanks to the rich assortment of colors and textures, you can purchase the perfect option for any interior.

Video: English curtains in the interior

Types of London curtains and their photos