Change the heading tape for a fresh drape
Swapping out the heading tape allows you to adjust how the fabric hangs, giving your curtains an instant upgrade. There are about 20 different headings you can choose from, and each gives your curtains and your room a fresh new look. It’s also an easy fix - just unpick the heading tape that you currently have and sew a new one in place. You can do this by hand or on the machine – or even bring it to one of our Just Fabrics showrooms and we can help.
- Pencil pleat: Most curtains will come with a 3 inch pencil pleat, even if you’ve bought them off the peg. Swapping this to a 6 inch pencil pleat will create a grander look – or for something more modern, try a 2 inch pencil pleat header.
- Triple pinch pleat: This creates more of a tailored, structured look, with beautiful pleats fanning out from the top of the curtain. A great choice for elegant period homes with large windows.
- Cottage pleat: Create a cottage pleat by setting a simple 3 inch pencil pleat heading lower down the curtain to create a lovely ruching effect at the top.
- Floppy heading: If you like the cottagey look, a floppy heading works well. Set the heading tape quite far down the curtain so that the fabric actually flops over the top of the pleating.
For more help, take a look at our blog on ‘Curtain Headings Explained’, or pop into one of our showrooms where you can see the different curtain headings on display.
Add trimmings for a decorative edge
A creative way to refresh old curtains is by sewing on decorative trims. This is a great DIY project to do at home, and is an easy way to add contrast and drama to a pair of plain curtains. At Just Fabrics, we have books and books of trimmings that you can choose from. It’s amazing how just by adding a small detail, you can bring so much personality and interest to old curtains.
- Pom-pom trim: These make a lovely, playful addition to tired curtains, and they’re not just reserved for children’s bedrooms! They can soften the feel of very formal spaces, bringing a bit of personality to your room.
- Ribbon: Adding a strip of complementary or bold-coloured fabric along the edges of your curtains gives them an instant update. Have fun with colour and texture to get the look you want.
- Fabric-covered buttons: Sewing buttons into your pleats is such a simple way to give old curtains a refresh. Choose buttons in a contrasting colour for dramatic effect, or select the same colour for a sleek look
Use funky linings for a pop of colour
Lining your curtains with contrasting fabric is an eye-catching design feature that is also quite unexpected. Not only do they look super stylish, but they can also help improve insulation, sound and light control.
- Coloured linings: Instead of sticking to plain linings, choose a vibrant colour to add a hidden surprise. Our linings are available in a rainbow of colours – but for even more choice, or if you wanted a particular pattern, you could use flat bedsheets to line your curtains.
- Patterned blackout linings: At Just Fabrics, we’ve had lots of requests from customers asking for stylish linings with practical properties. So, we’ve created a range of striped blackout linings that are made specially for us.
- Double-sided curtains: Take the drama up a notch by making your curtains double-sided. These can look incredible, especially if you choose a colour that contrasts with your existing curtain fabric. Or try clashing patterns or pairing a floral print on one side with a neutral fabric on the other.
Dial up the drama with traditional features
Make an interior design statement for your feature windows with traditional details. This technique is particularly effective in period homes or rooms where you want a touch of opulence.
- Swags: Softly draped fabric over a pole or decorative bracket adds grandeur and drama to any window.
- Tails and jabots: These structured fabric panels at the sides of a window create a sophisticated frame.
- Tiebacks and ribbons: Adding fabric tiebacks or elegant ribbons in a complementary colour can elevate the look without overwhelming the space.
If you need help making or fitting these traditional pieces, contact JF’s Home Consultants for advice
Add a pelmet for a polished finish
Pelmets are fabric-covered panels that sit above the window. Because they are such an easy way to transform the look of your window, they are really making a comeback. Instead of changing your curtains, adding or updating a pelmet is a much more cost-effective option.
- Box pelmets: A structured, rectangular pelmet in a bold or coordinating fabric can give the illusion of a higher ceiling and add architectural interest
- Patterned or contrasting fabric: If your main curtain fabric is plain, a pelmet in a patterned material or a contrasting colour can provide a stylish accent.
- Bay windows: Pelmets are particularly good for bay windows as they can help to bring the window into the room. This creates a more unified look and can help with concealing curtain tracks and rods.
If you’d like to have a go at creating your own, take a look at our video and blog article on ’How to Make a Pelmet’
Inspired to make some updates to your old curtains?
Updating old curtains doesn’t require a complete overhaul. With a few clever adjustments, you can refresh your look and make the most of the curtain fabric you already love. Whether you want a modern refresh or a traditional touch, these creative ideas will help you breathe new life into your existing drapes. For more advice, get in touch with us or pop in to one of our Just Fabrics showrooms at Cheltenham or Burford.
