How to choose Roman blinds? A modern take on a timeless classic!

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Roman blinds are convenient as blinds and beautiful as curtains, and therefore this is the most win-win option for decorating a window in the kitchen. For those who are planning to buy, sew or order them and are looking for ideas, we have compiled a guide to choosing Roman blinds for the kitchen with useful links to Russian and foreign online stores and a selection of inspiring photos.

• This type of curtain is a sheet of fabric that gathers into folds when raised. The curtains are attached to the cornice at the top, and slats are sewn to the back of the fabric, which are lifted by the adjusting cord. At the bottom, the canvas has a weighting plate.

Roman blind device

How are Roman blinds made? In their most basic form, Roman shades are fabric window coverings that can be raised or lowered using a loop chain sewn to the back of the fabric. When lifted, the fabric is laid evenly in horizontal folds, thanks to the rods sewn into it. The canvas is attached to a cornice installed on the wall or ceiling. How Roman blinds will work - with manual or remote control - is decided at the measurement stage.

Roman shades can be raised and lowered using a built-in electric motor or a continuous loop-chain system

Motorized shades provide the ultimate in convenience as they can be controlled at the touch of a button and programmed to preset positions. But they are also the most expensive solution and require electrical wiring to the product, which can usually only be added during a major renovation.

A continuous loop, in the form of a chain with beads to rotate the clutch mechanism, lifts the fabric into folds - is the most popular control option.

Loop chain - a simple and reliable control option

What are Roman curtains?

Curtains made based on the sails of a ship of the ancient Romans are called Roman in the modern world. They have a fairly simple mechanism of action - they lower and rise quickly and efficiently.

Modern Roman blinds have the following characteristics:

• have a stylish design;

• hide the penetration of bright sunlight well;
• easy to use;

• moderately strict, but at the same time elegant;
• have an original appearance.

In addition, if you make Roman blinds with your own hands, you will need much less fabric as for other curtains.

Roman curtains are sheets of material in which for every twenty to thirty centimeters of fabric there are horizontal strips that create folds when the structure is raised. In order for such a curtain to hold well and not sway from the slightest breeze, a small weighting material is attached below.

Roman blinds have an original appearance

The mechanism of operation of such curtains is quite simple - you just need to pull the attached control cord and the curtain opens or closes. This control mechanism consists of several cords, which are located along the edges of the curtain in special ring holes.

On a note! Roman blinds are an ideal option for rooms of any functionality: kitchen, living room, bedroom or children's room.

How to choose the right Roman blinds for plastic windows?

The choice of fabric on the front side is important when purchasing Roman blinds, and not only because what material you choose will determine the color and pattern of the finished product. The fabric can be transparent, opaque or opaque. It is also important how well it folds when lifted.

Light and medium-weight materials are good for folds to fit nicely on top of each other, and the thicker the fabric, the more difficult it is to achieve this

Fortunately, pliability is easy to test on a fabric sample. How to choose the right fabric for Roman blinds? Fold it a few times to see how it reacts to being molded. If the fabric won't lay flat, it may not be the best option.

Types of Roman blinds for plastic windows:

• Classic pieces have horizontal fiberglass rods sewn in for a tougher appearance with a straight edge at the bottom. Rods can be added at the bottom of the curtain or in each fold along the entire height of the curtain, depending on the desired look. The default step between inserts is 25 cm, but you can choose an individual option.
• Products that do not have rigid supports inside and allow the fabric to sag gently under its own weight, which creates a bend at the bottom of the fabric when it is raised.

Which Roman blind you choose is up to you, but note that on very wide windows, for example, upholstered products may be difficult to control.

Roman blinds with fiberglass inserts are ideal for wide windows

Sizes and colors

Roman style curtains can be floor length, cover the window sill and not reach it. Short products save space, while long ones hide the entire opening. The maximum size of the lift curtain is 3x3.

The colors of the canvases are very different. Beige and brown are popular. Calm, warm shades create a pleasant and homely atmosphere. However, other colors are no less popular, including expressive black and attractive red. For example, red curtains will fit organically into the interior if the color has a pair - a red tabletop or lampshade. And the black textiles on the panoramic window attract the eye and indicate the extraordinary taste of the owner of the room.

Roman window models often have surrounds. Wide or narrow, matching or contrasting colors, located along the perimeter or just along the edges, it changes the visual perception of window textiles and focuses attention on it. Another technique of color decor is a vertical stripe in the center of the curtain to match the edging.

Designs on fabrics – geometric, floral, patterned.

An interesting option are curtains with photo printing, which add uniqueness to the interior.

The curtains are decorated with fringe, tassels, bows and additional drapery on top of the canvas.

How to choose the size of Roman blinds?

Before choosing the correct size of Roman blinds for the window, you need to take measurements. We recommend using the services of our specialists and being sure that the product will ideally fit the parameters of the plastic window. We provide installation on walls and ceilings.

If you still decide to calculate the product parameters yourself, then use the following recommendations:

1. Universal brackets are attached to the ceiling or wall at a distance of 60 cm.
2. Decide on which side the loop chain will be to control the product.
3. Measure the horizontal portion of the area you want to cover. We recommend that your Roman blinds be at least 15 cm wider than the opening dimensions to avoid gaps on the sides. So, whatever the width of your window, feel free to add 15 cm.
4. Measure the height of the area you want to cover. When the Roman shade is fully raised, it will cover a small portion of the window at the top. Therefore, we recommend installing Roman blinds at least 25-30 cm above the window frame so that they do not block your view when raised.
5. It is necessary to decide how many fiberglass rods will be in the product and, if necessary, bring a sketch to place an order.
6. Make sure that the measurements do not exceed the maximum parameters of the product: 80 - 185 cm in width and 100 - 300 cm in height.

The standard configuration of the product is designed for both wall and ceiling installation

How to attach a Roman blind to a plastic window frame? If the opening depth parameters allow, it is possible to mount the product on a frame. In this case, measurements are taken at three different points in height and width. The smallest value in width and the largest in height are accepted.

If you still have questions about how to measure Roman blinds, write to our managers via chat or call!

Elegant look of Roman blinds on kitchen windows

How are Roman blinds installed on windows?

One of the common questions when ordering Roman blinds is how to attach Roman blinds: inside to a plastic window or outside to a wall or ceiling. Sometimes there is simply not enough space in the window opening, which makes the decision easier. Otherwise, it all depends on the architecture and the wishes of the customer.

How to attach Roman blinds to plastic windows:

• to Wall,
• on the ceiling,
• on the frame.

We install curtains outside the opening on the wall or ceiling - this adds a sense of height, which always looks great

Put everything into pieces

The classification of Roman blinds is based not only on the color, pattern and texture of the fabric. I want to introduce you to the types of construction.

Advantages

The main advantages of products in the Roman style:

• Always in fashion.

Roman blinds have been around for centuries and evolved to the look we know today. This is a classic style that is always on trend with the right choice of fabric.

• Light control.

While Roman shades don't offer the same level of light control as slatted blinds, their pleated appearance allows you to block or let in light.

• Confidentiality.

Being made from a single piece of fabric also means that Roman blinds offer greater privacy.

• Energy efficiency

Properly lined Roman blinds, made from the right fabric, are a stylish and simple solution to keeping your room warm in winter and keeping the heat out of your room in summer.

• Availability.

Typically, Roman shades use 25% less fabric than curtains, so they are cheaper.

• Soft look.

Roman blinds add character to a window and give it a soft look, unlike other rigid products such as horizontal blinds.

• Good for small windows.

Roman blinds do not take up much space, so they are suitable for small windows.

• Easy to use.

Roman blinds are easy to raise and lower with cords, but modern technology also allows for motorized versions.

• Easy care.

If necessary, Roman products can be washed.

How wonderful Roman blinds look on the window in combination with classic curtains!

Fabric selection

Roman blinds can be made from almost any fabric, and it’s even easy to do it yourself. First you need to decide what density of fabric you need for the curtains, which depends on what result you want to get, what kind of natural light there is in the room, etc. If the room is south , and a lot of sun and heat gets there, if we are talking about country houses, about the southern regions of the country, then it is better to opt for dense fabrics . They will shade the room as much as possible and protect from heat - in general, they will fully correspond to their original purpose. Another option for this case is black out , which are made of dense material and are impregnated on the reverse side with special substances that prevent fading. Such models provide the greatest shading.

In many regions of our country it is not so hot and sunny to protect from the long-awaited rays and warmth, so there Roman blinds can be used only for decorative purposes and choose transparent or translucent fabrics . But this option will reliably protect you from the eyes of passers-by, so this is an excellent option for residents of the first floors.

If you want the room to be as natural and environmentally friendly as possible, then choose natural fabrics . They do not cause allergies, are pleasant to look at and to the touch, but require a competent approach to care - then they will serve you for a long time and will remain in their original form for many years. Synthetic fabrics are extremely versatile and easy to care for: they often don’t wrinkle, don’t get dirty as quickly, are easier to wash, and dry faster.

In stores you can find a huge number of possible options for Roman blinds made from different fabrics, but the following fabrics have become the most popular:

• linen is a fabric obtained from the plant of the same name. It is hypoallergenic, environmentally friendly and safe, looks beautiful, and fits perfectly into any interior. Linen is great for the bedroom and living room, but in the kitchen it will cause a lot of difficulties, since it can absorb different odors, and washing it takes a lot of time. Moreover, such curtains need to be dried extremely carefully, otherwise wrinkles may form that cannot be smoothed out with any iron. Therefore, immediately after washing, it is recommended to hang such curtains on the window, and place a basin below so that water can drain into it;

• 
  cotton

  - another natural fabric that is often used in the production of Roman blinds. Cotton is beautiful, environmentally friendly, and creates an atmosphere of homeliness and comfort. Cotton curtains will be most appropriate in living rooms, bedrooms, and children's rooms, but in the kitchen, especially close to the work area, it is better not to hang them. Not only are they able to absorb odors, but they also become thinner when washed under the influence of chemicals. Therefore, frequent washing, which is inevitable for curtains hanging in the kitchen, will quickly lead to the loss of their original appearance;
• synthetic materials are an ideal option for the kitchen. Such curtains will not absorb odors; they are often impregnated with special substances that repel dust and dirt. They are extremely easy to care for and remain as good as new for a long time;
• mixed fabrics are the golden mean for those who want to combine the convenience of synthetic fabrics and the beauty of natural ones in Roman blinds. Here natural threads are intertwined with synthetic ones to achieve the perfect result.

It is worth noting that Roman blinds are the most economical among all types of curtains , and the fabric consumption for sewing them is minimal. That is why you can choose among quite expensive designer fabrics, because you will need a very small piece, unlike, for example, the required amount of fabric for curtains or drapes.

Roman blinds can be double or single . The first option is preferable for dense fabrics, where the back layer protects the main layer from fading. Single curtains are appropriate if they are light-colored fabrics with a print, translucent or transparent materials such as organza or veil.

How to choose the right material for Roman blinds?

The fabric options available for Roman products can seem endless. However, what you need from a practical standpoint from your window coverings can narrow down your choices.

What should you pay attention to?

• Darkening degree.

If you want to block out light as much as possible, you should choose a fabric that is heavier, thicker, or darker. You can add a lining to improve filtration. Or use blackout fabric. If you want your curtains to be more decorative, use a thinner, lighter, sheer fabric.

• Intensity of use.

How often you plan to adjust the pieces should play a role in your fabric choice. A thinner fabric or one with more detail (such as embroidery) will not stand up to as much use as a heavier fabric or one with a tighter weave.

• Terms of Use.

If you're decorating a guest room or furnishing a space you'll be renting out, you'll probably want to choose a durable fabric in a neutral color.

Roman blinds with blackout fabric for maximum blackout

Material and colors

The fabric material of Roman blinds also plays a significant role in operation, as well as in external beauty. Linen fabric is considered the densest, followed by cotton and synthetic. The last place in terms of density is occupied by mixed fabric.

Linen curtains have a number of advantages over all other types of fabrics used. They are valued for their ability to keep their shape, are quite durable, do not shrink even after numerous washes, and have antistatic properties.

Their design may seem simpler due to the lack of printed patterns. They look good in interiors in classic or Provence styles.

According to the place of use, they are most often hung in the living room or in the kitchen, as they have an average amount of daylight.

Cotton Roman blinds have also received great recognition for their environmental friendliness and printed patterns on the woven fabric. Because of this, they have a variety of colors that designers like so much.

Their texture is quite soft, which is one of the disadvantages, as they wrinkle easily. They are resistant to chemical influences and temperature changes, which makes them indispensable in the kitchen. Shrinkage may occur after washing.

Synthetic fabrics are made from polymer fibers that have different properties. The main advantage that this fabric has is the ability to repel dust and bacteria, and it also does not wrinkle when washed and is lightweight.

However, under constant exposure to high temperatures, such as heat from a radiator, such Roman blinds become deformed.

Blend Roman blinds are very diverse in their ability to transmit light. This happens due to the fact that such fabric is made from various fibers that have certain properties. It can be a mixture of cotton and artificial fibers, or silk and synthetics.

Operation - how to properly hang, adjust and remove Roman blinds from the mount?

Roman blinds are best suited for residential areas. How and where to attach Roman blinds is an individual question; most often they are installed in living rooms, bedrooms, kitchens and dining rooms. Are there places where you shouldn't hang them? Think twice before hanging Roman blinds in your bathroom. Humidity can smooth out creases. Combined with poor ventilation, mold problems can arise in your drapery.

Roman blinds are a versatile window covering suitable for a variety of rooms. But that doesn't mean they're ideal for every situation.

How are Roman blinds hung? If you contact our specialists, they will recommend how to hang a Roman blind on a window, where to attach a curtain rod to a wall or ceiling - everything is individual!

Are your windows decorated with exquisite finishes? Choose internal fastening of curtains so as not to block the special character of the interior. Does your home have low ceilings? Clever window treatments can create an optical illusion. You can attach a curtain rod to the ceiling. This will lengthen your windows, making your ceilings appear higher and your rooms appear larger.

Options for fastening cornices:

• using drilling,
• on hinged brackets installed on the sash of a small window.

We install curtain rods on the wall or ceiling using drilling. The fabric itself is attached with Velcro, so it can be easily removed, for example, if necessary for washing. In order to adjust the product, use a building level during installation.

Our specialists know how to properly hang Roman blinds on a window.

How to clean Roman blinds: regular care and washing

Regular cleaning of Roman shades removes allergens such as pet dander and dust, improving indoor air quality and maintaining the beauty and longevity of your window accessories. This can be done by vacuuming, spot cleaning and washing the linen.

Using a vacuum cleaner and a fabric brush, clean your curtains weekly, paying particular attention to folds where dust collects.

If your curtains are decorated with decorative elements, use a static cloth. Spray a cloth with repellent to keep dust from clinging. Avoid vacuuming these curtains as this will weaken the decorative stitching.

When light stains appear on washable fabrics, pour water and baking soda into the stain to remove the stain immediately. For greasy stains, use a stain remover spray.

You can wash Roman blinds made of fabric either in a washing machine or with your own hands, if the type of fabric does not prohibit it. How to remove Roman blinds? Easily! After all, the canvas is held on by Velcro.

Use liquid detergent to wash Roman blinds at home as this will prevent undissolved powder from depositing on the curtains

Rinse them in cool water, then roll them in a towel to absorb the water, and then hang them on the window to dry completely.

If your curtains are made from non-washable fabrics, take them to the dry cleaner for professional cleaning once a year.

How to care for Roman blinds is not difficult, the main thing is to do it regularly!

Advantages and disadvantages of Roman blinds

The advantages of using Roman blinds include:

• Practicality. Thanks to their design, curtains can be mounted on window ledges of almost any size.
  Owners of private houses engaged in construction or renovation will be especially pleased - even the most non-standard windows can be decorated with such textile compositions, and combining them with the interior of the room will not be difficult.

  In addition, these curtains do not “eat up” the space in the room.

Ease of fastening . As a rule, the fastening system is quite simple - they can be installed either by a specialist or by the owner himself.

Read also:  Is it possible and how to dismantle and replace the window sill of a plastic window with your own hands?

• Easy to use . Curtains of this design can be adjusted according to the level of location: the design allows you to raise the fabric to the required height, and even a child can adjust the degree of window illumination.
• UV resistance . Roman curtains are made of durable fabric that does not fade in the sun for a long time. Find out more about blackout curtains here.
• Economical . Structurally, curtains cover only window openings - therefore, fabric consumption will only be according to the size of the window.
• Versatility. This quality allows them to be used in any interior.
• Easy to care for . The fabrics can be easily washed using mild detergents.

The disadvantages of curtains of this design include the following:

• Machine wash is not recommended . Of course, Roman curtains are removable and even “collapsible”, but washing them often, and even in a washing machine, is not recommended. The manufacturers themselves do not provide any guarantee that the canvas will remain its original size and that the fabric will not shrink.

Tip: if you wash curtains by hand, use cold water. If you want to “scroll” them in the washing machine, use only the manual mode. Otherwise, the canvas will become wrinkled and lose its appearance.

• Some difficulties opening the window . Despite their convenient design, Roman curtains are absolutely not suitable for windows with vents - after all, in order to look out of the window or open the vent, you will need to raise the curtain at least to the viewing level.