Curtains make a difference

SOME designers have hysterics at the word “curtains”, saying it should be called “drapes”. But whatever your choice is in hangings, you can use them to make a big splash in your home.

Go bold

If the idea of painting one or two walls bright orange is off-putting because it’s such a horrible thing to get rid of if you don’t like it, consider that you can get a similar effect by hanging bold colour curtains.

Ditch the rail

Install tab tops instead. These curtain rods have three advantages.

First, they’re very attractive. Second, you can make curtains very easily by making oblong panels and tacking on tiebacks. Third, tab tops can come with fancy ends.

Go single

If you have small windows, consider hanging just one curtain and leaving the other side open. This can give the illusion of a larger window, thereby increasing your perception of the room size too. It also lets in more light which is nice if you’re not facing the sun.

Mix rattan blinds and fabric

Rattan blinds are cheap and they can be pretty too, especially if you stencil them. Stencils are easily sourced in craft shops. You can also search on Google for “free stencil patterns”.

Forget curtains and hang scarves

Scarves come in so many pretty patterns and are so affordable that you can change them every week, depending on your mood.