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DECORATING & DESIGN TIPS
Planning Your Project

Basic Considerations
Begin you project planning by assigning a budget. If your project consists of multiple rooms or a whole house, consider breaking your budget down by floor or you can separate privacy treatments from decorative valances, side panels or accessories.

What kind of windows and how many
The quantity and type of windows will play a major role not only in your budget plan, but also the window treatment design to suit your needs. There are many kinds of windows – some open up and down; some, like vertical crank casements, open in and out; others, like sliding glass doors, open side to side. There are many treatment designs for each. So begin by counting and describing your windows. Then think about treatment design to fit your privacy needs and decorative appearance.

The kind of room each window is in.
Whether you home is contemporary or Victorian, look at each room independently for the decorating style and feeling you want in that room. You may want room-darkening in bedrooms. Dinning and living rooms may require a more formal look. Your family room will call for a casual, comfortable appearance.

Measurements of each window
Measuring your windows is possibly the most important element in purchasing your window treatments. It is also the factor where errors are most often made. Errors mean spending more money or living with a cruel mistake. Here are ten tips to assure accuracy when measuring your windows.

1. Decide your treatment design so you know your goal
2. Diagram the window as a rough sketch. Measure distance from ceiling to top of window, from bottom of sill to floor (or base board heating). Note every obstacle from door to wall to air conditioner vents and electric outlets.
3. Always use a steel tape measure.
4. Write measurements to the nearest eighth inch.
5. Inside or outside? Decide how you will mount the product you buy
6. Outside measure: Check window width at top, middle and bottom of window. Then use the largest measurement.
7. Inside mount:
   • First measure top to bottom inside the window to the nearest obstacle – cranks, window locks, security devices, etc. Be sure the product will fit inside the window without hitting these obstacles.
   • Next measure inside at top, middle, and bottom. This time use the smallest measurement.
8. If the “window” is a sliding glass door pay close attention which way the door opens. Visualize the product installed. Be sure it will work considering door handles, heat runs and cabinets.
9. Plan where you want cords, control wands, and adjusting mechanisms to avoid furniture and allow easy access.
10. Never assume all windows in your room that appear the same size are the same size. Regrets likely!