Types of Curtains

Pencil pleat: These are folds, gathered closely together to resemble a row of pencils laid side by side. They are created by pulling the cords on the heading tape and winding them around a cord tidy to keep the pleats in place. They can be used on curtain poles or tracks.

Tab top: These can only be used with curtain poles. Loops of fabric, either the same or contrasting, are stitched to the top of the curtain. You should remember to take the length of the tabs into consideration when measuring for this type of curtain.

Eyelet: These are suitable only for curtain poles and have a row of eyelets, usually metal, which can vary in diameter. They give a much softer, wider fold.

Curtain measuring guide

To find the correct size for your Pole / Track

Measure the internal width of your window from wall to wall if recessed or the outer most parts of your window frame or area to be covered from left to right if not recessed. Add a minimum of 4” (102mm) to each side 8”(204mm) in total to allow your curtain to overlap your window i.e. if your measurement for your window is 6ft (1800mm) you need a pole/track minimum size 6 ft 8” (2040mm).

To find the correct size for your curtains

Once your pole/track is fitted measure the width from end to end. The total width should be at least doubled to allow for an acceptable gather for your curtains i.e. if your pole/track measures 7ft (2100mm) you need at least 14ft (4200mm) of fabric. Remember most curtains are sold in pairs however the size shown on the product will show the size of each curtain in the pair. Therefore a pair of 90” x 90” (2290mm x 2290mm) will cover a window 90” (2290) wide and have an acceptable gather (double). Where you cannot find a pair of curtains to double the with of your pole/track always purchases a wider size if possible.

To measure for the drop for your curtains if fitting on a track, measure from the top of the track to 0.5” (13mm) from the floor. Always take this measurement both sides of your track as the track may not have been fitted horizontal. Always take the longer measurement.

When measuring tape top curtains for a pole, take the measure from the bottom of your pole to 0.5“ (13mm) from the floor.

When measuring for tab top curtains measure from the top of your pole to 0.5” (13mm) from the floor.

When measuring for eyelet curtains measure from 0.75” - 1” (20mm - 25mm) above the top of your pole to 0.5” (13mm) from the floor.

These instructions are for full length curtains however you may require yours shorter, just below your windowsill or to your radiator. Most readymade curtains are available in 3 drops, 54” (1370mm), 72” (1800mm) and 90” (2290mm). Always choose a size longer, rather than shorter than the size you require if your exact required size is not available.

When measuring for a Blind

Most ready made blinds have maximum drops stipulated.. They will work on any window less than their maximum drop but cannot be extended to fit windows longer. The advertised width of the blind includes the blind and the bracket to fit it. Remember if a roller blind is advertised at 70” wide (1800mm) the fabric itself will only measure approx 68” (1780mm). To measure the width you require for a recessed window, measure form wall to wall. If not recessed remember the blind size may not be the fabric size so allow for it to overlap each side. Venetian blinds are normally the advertised size within a few mm,s and so no allowance is required.

Example of Ordering

To place an order for a pair of curtains and /or tie backs simply choose the sizes required and click on the selector button on the left. If tie backs or cushion covers are required use the same procedure.

For multiple orders i.e. 2 pair of curtains 66 x 90 + 2 pair of cushion covers. You must select 66 x 90 and 1 pair of cushion covers then add to cart. Then repeat the procedure again, as each product has a default setting of 1 unit. Your running total will be indicated in the cart window.

Nursery useful information

Safer Sleeping - Baby Do's & Don'ts

Safer sleeping guides and bedtime routines to help you ensure that your baby has a comfortable nights sleep.

Baby Do's
• Keep the room at a temperature between 16-20ºC. 18ºC (65ºF) is ideal.
• Use a room thermometer in rooms your baby occupies.
• Close the curtains and open windows during the day when it's warm.
• Remove hats and warm clothing whenever you're indoors.
• Use fewer layers or a lower tog baby sleeping bag if they feel too hot.
• Make sure their heads remain uncovered.
• Check your baby! If they're perspiring or their tummy feels hot to the touch, take off some bedding.
• Give your baby plenty to drink in hot weather and sponge them down regularly with moderately warm water.
• You can use a fan but do not direct it squarely at your baby.

Baby Don'ts
• NEVER sleep with a hot water bottle or electric blanket.
• DO NOT place the cot next to a radiator, heater or fire, or in direct sunshine.
• DO NOT use a duvet, quilt or pillow for babies under 12 months.

Tog Guide Preventing Possible Suffocation and FSID's

Baby Do's
• The safest place for your baby to sleep is on their back in a cot in your room for the first 6 months.
• Place your baby’s feet at the bottom of the cot, to prevent wriggling down under the bed clothes.

Baby Don'ts
• You must not use cot quilts or duvets, pillows, sheepskin and pillow like soft toys in their cot.
• Do not let your baby sleep in any other bed.

Safer Sleeping - FSID's Essential Advice

• Both Parents should stop smoking during pregnancy.
• No one should smoke in the same room as the baby.
• Do not share a bed with your baby if either you or your partner smoke, have been drinking alcohol, take medication or drugs that make you drowsy, Feel unwell or very tired.
• You should ensure your baby sleeps on their back.
• Do not let your baby get too hot.
• Keep baby’s head uncovered so they don’t overheat.
• Ensure your baby has their feet to the foot of the cot to prevent them wriggling under the covers.
• If your baby is unwell, seek medical advice promptly.