Tab Top Panel Curtains

Nursery curtain help.........?

I got 2 tab-top valance panels with my baby's comforter set. I want to add standard curtains for a layered look - plus make the room darker. The window is only 43" wide. I can't use a double curtain rod because the valances are tab top and the double curtain rod is plain and ugly.......... but the regular curtains won't fit onthe fancy tab-top rod. The only thing I can think of doing is cutting the tabs off the valances and sewing them directly onto the top of the curtains. Any suggestions?
Here is a link to the bedding site so you can see the curtains. I was planning on just purchasing solid dark blue curtains to go with.

http://cgi.ebay.com/DESIGNER-NAUTICAL-SAIL-BOAT-BABY-BOY-CRIB-9-BEDDING-SET_W0QQitemZ230226184784QQihZ013QQcategoryZ20421QQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

How about adding a roman shade for a layer instead of the curtains. Put the valance over the roman shade. See for a conceptual:

http://www.smithandnoble.com/sn/product_category.jsp?nav_cat=-18001

Add a funky little anchor pull for a detail that would match the other components. Michele

Curtains Buying Guide

Index

• How to Measure for Curtains
• Different Heading Types and How to Hang Them
• Types of Lining
• Voiles
• Tracks & Poles
• Curtain Care
• Accessories

How to Measure for Curtains

• Curtains are sold in pairs. The size given refers to each individual curtain so if you buy a pair of curtains measuring 117 x 137cm (46 x 54") you are buying two curtains and each one will measure 117 x 137cm (46 x 54")
• The size of the curtain allows for them to have a gathered look when they are closed
• Curtains are always measured width first and then length

Measuring Width

• First decide if you want a track or a pole
• It's best to use a metal tape measure as it will be more accurate
• Your track or pole should be placed approximately 15cm (6") above your window top and should be wider than your window by approximately 15-20cm (6-8")
• Measure the width of your track or pole excluding the finials (decorative endings on poles). Do not measure the window
• Add an extra 2.5cm (1") to your track/pole measurement. This will allow for your curtains to overlap in the middle when they are closed so as not to let in any light or draught

Measuring Length

• First decide where you would like your curtains to finish; just below your window sill or to the floor
• We recommend that sill length curtains finish 15cm (6") below the window sill. Floor length curtains should finish 1.5cm (1/2") above the floor
• Tape Top Curtains - For this style of curtain you should measure length from the eye of the curtain hook on your track or pole
• Tab Top & Eyelet Curtains - For this style of curtain you should measure length from the pole
• Radiators - If you have a radiator below the window your curtains should finish 3cm (1 1/2") above it. This will prevent heat escaping behind your curtains and allow it to heat your room

Different Heading Types and How to Hang Them

• 'Heading' is used to describe how the top of your curtains are attached to the track or pole
• There are three different types, each one giving your curtains a different look and finish

Tape Top

• 'Tape' is the name for the band of fabric with string threaded through which is attached to the inside top edge of each curtain
• Hooks are looped through the tape to attach the curtain to the track or pole
• The tape on all our ready made curtains is 7.5cm (3")
• The tape will have either 2 or 3 rows of strings running through it. Please note that if you place your hooks on the tape at the highest position your track or pole will show over the top of the curtains. If you choose the lowest position it will be hidden. More instructions are given below on how to use hooks

How to Hang

Tracks - Tape top curtains need to be gathered before they can be hung up. If using a track it is usually recommended that you put the hooks into the bottom row of strings so the curtain top covers the track

Step 1 - On the tape top there will be between 1 and 3 strings. First tie the strings together at the outside edge of each curtain

Step 2 - Pull the curtains along the string to gather them up. The curtains should be gathered to just over half the window width, this will allow them to overlap when closed. Please note that once you have gathered curtains they cannot be returned so make sure you are happy with the size and colour before you start

Step 3 - Once your curtains are gathered to the right width tie off the strings at the inside edge. Do not tie too tightly as it is common to loosen these off after a curtain has been washed. You can, if you wish, trim the strings but again do not trim them too short. The string ends can then be tucked neatly into the tape so as not to be seen

Step 4 - Now hooks should be placed at each end of each curtain and then at intervals of approximately 10cm (4")

Step 5 - You can now thread the hooks through the track glides on your track making sure you place a hook through the last track glide which acts as an end cap anchoring the curtains in place

Poles

If using a pole it is usually recommended that you put the hooks into the top row of strings in your tape so the pole shows above your curtain. Hooks should be placed at each end of each curtain and then at intervals of approximately 10cm (4")

Step 1 - On the tape top there will be between 1 and 3 strings. First tie the strings together at the outside edge of each curtain

Step 2 - Pull the curtains along the string to gather them up. The curtains should be gathered to just over half the window width. This will allow the curtains to overlap when closed. Please note that once you have gathered curtains they cannot be returned so make sure you are happy with the size and colour before you start

Step 3 - Once your curtains are gathered to the right width tie off the strings at the inside end. Do not tie too tightly as it is common to loosen these off after a curtain has been washed. You can, if you wish, trim the stings but again do not trim them too short. The string ends can then be tucked neatly into the tape so as not to be seen

Step 4 - Now hooks should be placed at each end of each curtain and then at intervals of approximately 10cm (4")

Step 5 - You can now thread the hooks through the loops at the bottom of your curtain rings

Step 6 - Thread the curtain rings onto the pole but make sure that the last ring is secured on the outside of the pole behind where it is attached to the wall as this will anchor the curtains and stop them from moving when you close them

Tab Top

• These can only be used with poles as the tabs simply loop over the pole allowing the curtain to hang
• They are excellent if you want to make a feature of your pole

Eyelet Top

• These can only be used with poles
• They make a great decorative feature in any room

Types of Lining

Curtains come both lined and unlined to cater for various different uses and effects. Here are the benefits of each explained:

Lined Curtains

1. Help keep out the cold
2. Help keep out draughts
3. Help keep out the light
4. Prevent the curtain fabric from fading
5. Give the curtain weight to help it hang better

Unlined Curtains

1. Cooler in Summer
2. Easier to care for
3. Give a lighter feel to your room

You can also buy the following specialised linings:

• Blackout readymade linings keep out daylight and are ideal for children's bedrooms. They also keep in the heat
• Polycotton readymade linings keep the heat in and are easy to wash and care for
• Thermal linings are specially coated to provide maximum insulation and they are machine washable

Voiles

Voile panels allow in the light but block the view into your room and provide a modern and more attractive alternative to net curtains

Tracks & Poles

You can buy a variety of tracks and poles to suit every style of room.

Curtain Care

• We recommend that all curtains are professionally cleaned according to their individual care instructions; these can be found on packaging or on the sewn in labels
• Any creases that occur from the curtain being packed should fall out after hanging in a warm room
• Apart from velvet, most curtains may be ironed with a warm dry iron on the reverse side, make sure you avoid the hem at the bottom and on the sides
• Velvet is subject to flattening but should regain volume once hung. Brush upwards to take all pile the same way. Never iron or machine wash velvet curtains; always dry clean

Accessories

• Most curtains are available with tie backs to match, often sold separately
• Tie backs should be cared for using the same care instructions as your curtains

DefaultBestsellingPrice: low to highPrice: high to lowAlphabetical: A to ZAlphabetical: Z to A

55-Inch by 63-Inch Faux Suede Chamois Tab Top Panel, Chocolate List Price: $30.00 Sale Price: $15.25 You save: $14.75 (49%)   Eligible for free shipping! Availability: Usually ships in 24 hours See Reviews For This Product Description 55 by 63-inch Faux Suede Chamois Tab Top Panel, Chocolate Features Faux suede offers the look of real suede with easy care and durability These tab top panels have a real suede feel and texture Faux Suede curtains will transform your room giving it that classic elegant look Polyester for easy care Machine wash gentle cycle, cold water and tumble dry with low heat

Ultra Suede Tab Top Window Curtain Panel 50 in. W x 63 in. L List Price: $24.99 Sale Price: $12.99 You save: $12.00 (48%)   Eligible for free shipping! Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days See Reviews For This Product Description Soft Micro Suede Tab Window Treatment 63 In Taupe Hmmm...create a warm and wonderful window with this luscious Ultra Suede tab top curtain panel, shown here in a chic, go with any look Taupe hue. The supple faux suede can bring an exceptional look to your home, with its exquisite texture and lovely draping effect. And best of all, UltraSuede fabric is constructed of 100% polyester and is machine washable! Each suede curtain panel measures 50 inches wide by 63 inches long, the right size for covering a standard window; simply purchase extra panels for wider windows or added fullness. The UltraSuede tab top window panel sells for $24.99 in better specialty chains and upscale department stores! One 63 In. Panel 50 in. W x 63 in. L 100% Polyester Machine Washable Made in China Features Soft durable microsuede fabric. Measures 50 in. wide x 63 in. long Machine washable.

Ultra Suede Tab Top Window Curtain Panel 50 in. W x 84 in. L List Price: $24.99 Sale Price: $14.99 You save: $10.00 (40%)   Eligible for free shipping! Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days See Reviews For This Product Description Soft Micro Suede Tab Window Treatment 84 In Chocolate Hmmm...create a warm and wonderful window with this luscious Ultra Suede tab top curtain panel, shown here in a chic chocolate hue. The supple faux suede can bring an exceptional look to your home, with its exquisite texture and lovely draping effect. And best of all, UltraSuede fabric is constructed of 100% polyester and is machine washable! Each suede curtain panel measures 50 inches wide by 84 inches long, the right size for covering a standard window; simply purchase extra panels for wider windows or added fullness. The UltraSuede tab top window panel sells for $24.99 in better specialty chains and upscale department stores! Please note: Image shows an additional panel- not included, but available. One 84 In. Panel 50 in. W x 84 in. L 100% Polyester Machine Washable Made in China Features Soft durable microsuede fabric. Measures 50 in. wide x 84 in. long Machine washable.

Tadpoles Damask Set of 2 Tab Top Curtain Panels, Blue/Brown List Price: $35.99 Sale Price: $16.77 You save: $19.22 (53%)   Eligible for free shipping! Availability: Usually ships in 24 hours See Reviews For This Product Description A set of 2 damask print curtain panels to coordinate with the Tadpoles Damask Crib Bedding Set and accessories. Set of 2 blue & brown damask tab top curtain panels in 100% cotton. Each panel measures 42" across and 63" in length. By Sleeping Partners. Features Includes 2 damask curtain panel Coordinates with the rest of the Tadpoles Damask Collection Available in 3 color-ways

Ivy Lace ~ White Country Cottage Cotton Tab Top Curtain Panel 84x46 Sale Price: $39.99   Eligible for free shipping! Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days See Reviews For This Product Description These unique decorative tab top cotton voile sheer curtain panels are the perfect accent for a stylish yet relaxed living room, country cottage, bedroom, kitchen or bathroom window. This tab top curtain is printed on voile; a soft, light, gossamer cotton weave, with wonderful light filtering properties that incredibly, also provides much needed privacy. Each curtain is 84 inch long and 46 inch wide and printed on preshrunk, superior grade, soft cotton voile and is exquisitely finished with 5, 4-inch tabs (included in the panel length) on the top for easy hanging. Also comes with a color-matched tieback. Each piece is handcrafted using intricately hand carved wooden blocks and is an original work of art distinguished by the work of the artisan, the particular lot of dye, and even varying weather conditions. Tonal variations are inherent to the block printing process and enhance the individuality, character and uniqueness of each creationAbout this design: Ivy Lace: The pristine porcelain innocence of Ivy Lace contrasts beguilingly with the sensual ornamental eloquence of its scrolling vines. The Ivy Lace pattern has a romantic and nostalgic air about it; conjuring up images of high teas, polished silver, pearls, and elegant gowns.. Use Ivy Lace to create an atmosphere that captures the classic timeless elegance of a bygone era. Features Creamy Ivy vines scroll sensuously across an ivory ground Printed on voile - a soft, light, gossamer cotton weave, with wonderful light filtering properties Panel length includes 5, 4-inch tabs on top for easy hanging. Comes with a color-matched tieback Hand printed using intricately carved wooden blocks. Machine wash, cold gentle cycle, mild detergent Sold Individually

Ultra Suede Tab Top Window Curtain Panel 50 in. W x 95 in. L List Price: $34.99 Sale Price: $18.99 You save: $16.00 (46%)   Eligible for free shipping! Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days See Reviews For This Product Description Soft Micro Suede Tab Window Treatment 95 In Taupe Hmmm...create a warm and wonderful window with this luscious Ultra Suede tab top curtain panel, shown here in a chic, go with any look Taupe hue. The supple faux suede can bring an exceptional look to your home, with its exquisite texture and lovely draping effect. And best of all, UltraSuede fabric is constructed of 100% polyester and is machine washable! Each suede curtain panel measures 50 inches wide by 95 inches long, the right size for covering a standard window; simply purchase extra panels for wider windows or added fullness. The UltraSuede tab top window panel sells for $34.99 in better specialty chains and upscale department stores! One 95 Inch Panel 50 in. W x 95 in. L 100% Polyester Machine Washable Made in China Features Soft durable microsuede fabric. Measures 50 in. wide x 95 in. long Machine washable.

Tree of Life Tab Top Curtain-Drape-Door Panel-Olive Sale Price: $21.99   Eligible for free shipping! Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days See Reviews For This Product Description TREE OF LIFE PANEL ~ Beautiful tree of life curtain/door panel in a lovely olive green color with accenting colors of blue, purple and sage. Made of 100% power-loomed quality cotton offering a nice tight weave. Panel measures approximately 44 inches wide X 88 inches tall including the tabs. They can be machine washed on cool/gentle and tumble dried. All panels are sold individually. Duplicates are available. The Tree of Life is very distinct in that is represents one of the oldest spiritual symbols known to man. It represents connection of Heaven and Earth, Body and Soul. It symbolizes the oneness of us all to the oneness of creation. The complete circle of Life. References to the "Tree of Life" that link mankind to heavenly worlds have been found in ancient cultures spanning from Europe to the Orient throughout history. They are wonderful for doorways and creative window treatments. Look for our tapestry's to match! You will love the unique quality they add to your home decor! Features 44 x 88 inches 100% Cotton Machine Washable Unique Home Décor

Maytex Twill Tab Top Panel, Cranberry List Price: $19.99 Sale Price: $17.09 You save: $2.90 (15%)   Eligible for free shipping! Availability: Usually ships in 24 hours See Reviews For This Product Description 100% cotton twill window drapery panel with tab tops that easily install onto standard window rods. Features Measures: 40-Inch by 84-inch Tab top 100-percent cotton Solid color

TexStyle Faux Suede Tab Top 54-Inch by 63-Inch Window Panel, Red Sedona Sale Price: $9.99   Eligible for free shipping! Availability: Usually ships in 24 hours See Reviews For This Product Description Faux suede tab top panel with tonal stitch detail. Each panel measures 54-inch wide by 63-inch long. 100-percent Polyester. Machine wash cold, gentle cycle; wash dark colors separately; do not bleach; Tumble dry, low heat.  Touch-up with cool iron, if necessary. Features Tab top decorative window panel Tonal stitch detail on tabs and on all sides and near the bottom of the panel Casual Styling 100-Percent Polyester Machine wash and tumble dry

Ultra Suede Tab Top Window Curtain Panel 50 in. W x 108 in. L List Price: $34.99 Sale Price: $22.99 You save: $12.00 (34%)   Eligible for free shipping! Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days See Reviews For This Product Description Soft Micro Suede Tab Window Treatment 108 In Chocolate (NEW in Original Packaging) Create a warm and wonderful window with this luscious ultrasuede curtain panel, shown here in a chic chocolate hue. The supple faux suede can bring an exceptional look to your home, with its exquisite texture and lovely draping effect. And best of all, ultrasuede fabric is constructed of polyester and is machine washable! Each suede curtain panel measures 50 inches wide by 108 inches long, the right size for covering a standard window. Simply purchase extra panels for wider windows or added fullness. The ultrasuede window panel sells for $34.99 in better specialty chains and upscale department stores! One 108 Inch Panel 50 in. W x 108 in. L 100% Polyester Machine Washable Made in China Features Soft durable microsuede fabric. Measures 50 in. wide x 108 in. long. Machine washable.