subject: Curtains – history and types [print this page] Curtains history and types Curtains history and types
Curtains which are known as drapes in the USA are what we use to block out light and preying eyes from looking into our homes. Net curtains help control the ambiance and flow of natural light into a room and when chosen correctly can finish off the decor of a room beautifully. Also known as sheer curtains, they are made from translucent fabric too allow a lot of light into a room and also a basic level of UV protection while also maintaining maximum visibility through the curtains
There also many other types of curtains which have other uses, not just for windows. Shower curtains for example are made purely to keep water from leaking out of your shower or bath and are made of water proof material. Some curtains which are hung over doorways where a door would normally be are known as portieres. These types of curtains were very popular in wealthy households in the Victorian era.
Generally house hold curtains as well as giving your home privacy also help in sleeping as they stop light coming in. They come in many different shapes and sizes, colours patterns and material. Getting the right type of curtains for rooms can complete the overall appearance of a room.
You can get manually opening curtains as well as curtains that are moved with cords or even remote controlled computers. But net curtains generally stay put and are a permanent fixture, except for when they need cleaning.
In some countries wooden window shutters are fixed to the outside of buildings which still provide privacy and keep the building cool inside.
The history of curtains goes right back to the 1700's when they were made out of cotton wool or silk, silk being the most expensive and exquisite. In the middle ages fabric was very expensive so only the very rich or upper classes would have them. It wasn't until the industrial era and the development of the textile trade that made fabric prices more affordable to most people. Once the glass industry was in full swing and homes were installed with glass windows, this again helped with the textile industry and brought the prices of curtains down.
Today most net curtains are made out of synthetic material like polyester. The beauty of this material is that it gives the look of silk but costs much lesser. Basically there are three kinds of Net Curtains, the Voile, Jardinires and caf curtains. Voile curtains are perfect for large windows or where you want full length cover. They come in many different colours and patterns but are mainly maid of wool as they are semi transparent. Jardinire curtains are also full length curtains but they have an arch at the end. These are great for keep the privacy but also allowing you to look out from the inside. Also they allow for sun to shine through into your room. Cafe curtains are slightly different in that they only have half of the window, the bottom half. Found commonly in quaint homes and cafes in France, these are great for kitchens where your window leads onto the back garden.
