Custom vs Ready Made Curtains: What to Choose?
When it comes to window coverings for either light & privacy control or a decorative style, curtains are the only thing that comes to mind. These are drapes that offer functionality alongside a character and mood upgrade for the living space. You need to choose the right fabric, color, and curtain length. This is where the question many people ask, custom vs ready-made curtains, what to choose. Well, the answer is more technical, you might think; you need to know the difference between each window covering. Today, this is what we will be talking about in detail.
What Are Custom and Ready-Made Curtains?
The term “ready-made” is self-explanatory; it refers to drapes that are mass-produced. You can buy them in standard sizes and styles. They are readily available at any curtain shop or online store. They are a cost-effective option and a quick solution for window treatment. The standard dimensions for these drapes are 54, 72, and 84 inches, with a width that fits any average-sized window.
As for the custom curtains, they are the bespoke options, a product made to order. They are designed specifically to your window dimensions, your style preferences, and your overall room decor. When ordering custom curtains, you can choose the style, fabric, lining, length, width, and pleats. These curtains are a result of professional craftsmanship. Be aware that the bespoke nature of these curtains often leads to a longer production time.
6 Differences Between Custom VS Ready-Made Curtains
Here are the 6 basic differences between custom curtains and ready-made curtains, along with guidance on how to choose between them. Based on these differences, you will be able to make a sound shopping decision.
1. Fit and Measurement Accuracy
For the custom curtains, the biggest benefit is their precision sizing. Whether it’s for floor-to-ceiling windows or bay windows, custom orders ensure an exact fit. This is beneficial if you’re looking for a luxury look with a wall-to-wall or floor-to-ceiling curtain drop. You also get to experience a custom finish that improves light blocking, soundproofing, and thermal insulation.
For the standard curtains, their sizes are set, which leads to a design compromise. The curtain will either be too short or it will pool awkwardly on the floor. It can also be too narrow to cover your windows completely. For commonly sized windows, these curtains are a decent purchase; however, for unique window shapes, they will literally fall short.
2. Style & Fabric Variety
Custom curtains offer a wide range of options. You get to pick from 100+ fabric choices, including velvet, silk, linen, blackout, and more. Color choices are near limitless, and you can customize the style for trims, borders, and pleating styles. Customize the window drapes in pinch pleats, pencil pleats, and grommets.
Ready-made curtains offer fewer choices for fabrics and styles. Yes, they do follow the trends, but options are limited when it comes to selecting the popular ones. You can expect the curtain supplier to customize a standard curtain for the print or color theme of your choice.
3. Budget Considerations
We all know that anything that is custom-made will cost more than the standard option. The same is the case for custom curtains. Their overall cost includes fabric, lining, labor, and a professional installation service. If you are a homeowner who is looking for a long-lasting window décor for a luxury feel, the cost of custom blackout curtains will be worth it. The quality and the personalization you get for these drapes will be worth the price.
When it comes to cost or budget, ready-made curtains are the clear winners. They are quite affordable compared to their custom counterparts. This is why most people with budget constraints choose these drapes for their windows. If you shop carefully, you can even find the high-end blackout drapes and thermal-lined curtains at a lower price point.
4. Installation and Lead Time
Another point where custom curtains fall a bit short of ready-made ones is the wait time. You can expect 2 to 6 weeks of time for the order completion. What these drapes will require is a professional measuring and curtian installation, all of which adds to the extra time and effort. But if you are willing to wait, that designer-grade finish will leave you satisfied.
With ready-made window coverings, you just need to order online for a quick delivery or walk into a store and buy one. You can hang that very same curtain on the very same day. Within a few hours, you can completely transform your room’s decor.
5. Functionality and Add-Ons
When it comes to functionality, custom drapery offers improved practicality. You can get UV protection, thermal insulation, soundproofing, or total light blockout with custom lining. The window décor can also be upgraded with custom layered curtains, including both sheer and blackout fabrics.
Ready-made options include functional draperies, such as thermal and blackout varieties. But the layer customizations will be limited. Also, the accessories, like tiebacks, might not be a perfect match.
6. Aesthetic Impact on Interior Design
These drapes can improve your room’s visual appeal with options like full-height curtains to create an illusion of larger spaces. They can be tailored to meet your exact interior décor look, both smoothly and elegantly.
These drapes will work best for a quick fix or a trendy update, but not as a complete, sophisticated interior design match. Still, you can have a well-chosen, ready-made drape to freshen up your room decor on a budget.
Which One Should You Choose?
Based on these differences above:
1. If you have odd-shaped or oversized windows, wish for complete design and material control, and need a long-term luxury décor solution, custom curtains are your ideal choice.
2. If you need a quick and affordable curtain solution, have standard windows, plan to rent out or move, and require fast installation, then ready-made curtains are the ideal choice.
Conclusion
With our explanation of custom vs ready-made curtains & what to choose, you might have a clear understanding of what to factor into account. The choice in the end is yours based on your window décor needs, your budget, and your window types. Both types have their pros and cons, but the final choice must match your personal preferences for interior décor and your lifestyle needs.
