Roman blinds have become very popular lately; they will be a suitable addition to any interior and will create a cozy atmosphere. They may differ in their structure, color or fastening features, but they all have the main advantage of convenience.
Roman blinds are fabric sheets with embedded metal rods, thanks to which the height of the curtain can be adjusted.
What are curtains?
The design is very simple, which contributed to their wide distribution. They first began to be used during the Roman Empire and gained popularity due to their simplicity and the comfort they created. Their name comes from ancient times.
Roman blinds are easy to install, have a convenient design for use, and are also suitable for almost any room.
An interesting fact is that since the invention of the design in ancient times, it has not undergone any significant changes. The essence of the idea and features remained the same, the changes affected only the material used and the aesthetic appearance.
Curtains help softly diffuse light throughout the room, creating a warm and cozy atmosphere. They are perfect for both large office spaces and ordinary apartments and will be an excellent addition to the interior of a bedroom, kitchen or living room.
The design consists of a cornice, which is attached to a window or ceiling, and the canvas itself. It is solid, however, at the same time divided into identical parts by special rigid inserts that provide control of the structure and folding. Raising occurs using a chain or cord mechanism, which promotes the formation of proportional, neat folds, and special weights sewn down will allow the fabric to lie neatly without twisting or rising.
Adjustment is carried out using a cord mechanism that raises and lowers the material
Note! Lifting curtains can be either manual or automated, depending on the structural features of the lifting blocks.
Automatic opening or lowering of curtains is carried out using electric drives
Various fabrics are used in production, but preference is still given to special curtain fabrics, which, due to their structure, will contribute to the beautiful laying of the material and the formation of neat folds.
A photo of Roman blinds demonstrates how the product will emphasize the individuality of the room and will be especially relevant for creative or photo studios.
Mounting methods
Roman blinds are attached to plastic windows using special fasteners. But it is attached only if there is a folding window. The fasteners are installed on top of the folding part of the profile. On the front side of the bracket there is a groove into which the cornice is inserted.
The cornice is secured to the wall using a holder, which is screwed to the base with self-tapping screws. The number of holes for installation depends on the length of the curtain rod and the weight of the curtain. There must be at least three of them. Two on the sides and one strictly in the middle.
Using a hammer drill or electric drill, holes are drilled. A dowel is inserted into them, onto which the product is mounted using screws.
Principle of operation
The main components in the manufacture of Roman blinds are the upper cornice with a control mechanism, the lower cornice and the canvas itself
The design is universal, but there are still differences between different types of products. All roller blinds can be divided into classic and cascading. How are they different?
The classic version is a completely flat canvas, on which folds form only after lifting. All folds formed are the same size and overlap one another, which gives them rigor and accuracy.
Classic curtains when folded look like horizontal folds, when unfolded they look like a perfectly flat canvas
Classic type curtains are common due to their versatility. Their design looks very simple and stylish at the same time. They can complement any interior, from classic style to modern modern.
Classic curtains in neutral shades look great in the kitchen or dining room
A distinctive feature of the second type of curtains is the presence of folds that create a cascade effect. This solution looks interesting and unusual, so it already has some connection to the design style. They are suitable for country or traditional style and will emphasize the designer’s interest in unusual solutions.
Cascading curtains create waves and draperies even when fully open
Note! It is better to choose cascading curtains that are plain or have the same repeating pattern.
Cascading curtains are more elegant and elegant, so they look great when combined with a classic option or a lambrequin in the living room
Main features of the fabric product
As mentioned above, this type of curtain was borrowed from the ancient sailors - the Romans. An important factor remains that the principle of manufacturing this canvas remains almost the same. It lies in the fact that they are sewn similarly to the sails that were used on ancient ships.
As mentioned above, this type of curtain was borrowed from the ancient sailors - the Romans
If we are talking about making a product yourself, then first you should decide on the size of the window opening and, based on this data, purchase a piece of fabric for making the finished textile product.
There are several advantages of this curtain, namely:
- manufacturing requires a much smaller piece of fabric;
- no need to drape the product;
- the pattern on the product is visible in full;
- easy control mechanism;
- can be used in premises of any purpose;
- It is small in size, so it will cost much less than other similar curtains.
Many experts advise initially ironing the fabric, and only then starting to cut the curtain from this piece
There are also important tips for making the product. For example, many experts advise initially ironing the fabric, and only then starting to cut a curtain from this piece. This method will allow you to maintain the exact dimensions of the finished product.
If we are talking about the sleeping area, then in this case you need to purchase fabric with a special treatment on the back side that does not allow sunlight to pass through.
You also need to be very careful about the choice of fabric when it comes to the specific room in which the curtain will hang. For example, if we are talking about a sleeping area, then in this case you need to purchase fabric with a special treatment on the back side that does not allow sunlight to pass through. There is also a canvas that can transmit the sun's rays, but at the same time close the room from prying eyes.
Electric Roman blinds
A special feature of such curtains is the presence of an electric drive and the ability to control using a remote control or a separate button mounted in the wall. The motor operation facilitates automatic lifting and folding. The appearance does not suffer from this.
Curtains are controlled via a specially programmed remote control or remotely
With stationary control, to close/open the curtains, just press the button installed next to the window
When connecting curtains, it is necessary to take into account their weight and the structural features of the window. If there are vents, you should not mount the structure on the window frame - it will interfere with opening. Special mini-cassette systems have been developed for plastic windows with a tilt-and-turn mechanism.
Diagram of the installation of roller blinds with electric drive
Purchasing electrically operated Roman roller blinds has the following advantages:
- Easy to operate. Raising and lowering using the remote control.
- Possibility of synchronizing several curtains in one room.
- There is a timer that allows you to set the closing or opening time.
Setting a timer for a Roman blind - convenient and practical - Possibility of adjusting room lighting.
- Less wear on material and fasteners.
- A convenient option for use in rooms with high ceilings or for roof windows.
- Fast battery charging, possibility of charging from a 220V network.
- Less chance of distortion.
- The disadvantages of using the design may be a higher price and difficulties in self-assembly. Removing motorized shades for further cleaning can be a bit of a hassle.
Note! Roller blinds should operate silently. Any additional sounds indicate incorrect installation.
Buying tips
First of all, you need to know that according to the design of the cornice, Roman blinds are distinguished with rope, chain-rotor and slatted mechanisms. Everyone decides for themselves what is more convenient for them and what is most suitable for their interior design. Let's look at each of the mechanisms in more detail.
Rope. As you might guess, a rope is used to raise and lower curtains. The main advantage when purchasing this type of product is the low price. When using fabrics that are heavy in weight, it is better not to use such a mechanism, since after frequent use the rope will break due to its thinness. If the woven fabric is light, then this is an ideal option for the combination of price and quality.
Chain-rotor. The operating pattern is very similar to blinds. A shaft is installed on the cornice, which is responsible for the operation of the blocks in raising and lowering the cords. This mechanism allows you to fix the curtains at the desired height. The design itself is reliable and durable in its operation. However, such a mechanism is much more expensive than the same rope mechanism.
Plank. The cheapest type. The intended use of Roman blinds with such a mechanism is a small country summer house, where curtains will be used very rarely. It can also be done independently. To do this, hooks are screwed onto a bar with a width of at least ten millimeters, which will regulate the operation of the cords responsible for raising and lowering the curtains.
All the cords are gathered together and passed through a ring mounted on the edge of a wooden plank. This mechanism is weak and short-lived.
In addition to choosing a lowering and raising mechanism, it is necessary to take into account the size of the window, the color scheme of the entire interior, and the type of fabric used for the curtains. Such details will help you most accurately and correctly select the product you need for long-term use. If you want to reduce the penetration of sunlight into the room, then choose Roman blinds with an additional light-proof lining.
Features of care
Rome curtains require special, careful and regular care. They are made from special fabrics, not all of which can be washed in a washing machine.
If the curtains are lightly soiled, vacuum the curtains to remove dust. For this cleaning method, if you have a special vacuum cleaner, you do not need to disassemble the structure.
For easy cleaning, just use a vacuum cleaner with a special attachment.
Before washing by hand or in a washing machine, you need to properly dismantle the roller blinds. You need to remove them from the cornice and remove the stiffeners. The fabric must have a label with instructions on how to properly wash the fabric, which must be followed.
Thick curtains are made of a special material that should not get very dirty, but if dry cleaning does not help, you should know the washing rules.
- Pre-soak the fabric in soapy water.
- Give preference to manual cleaning.
- Do not wash the fabric at temperatures above 40 degrees.
- Use the wash cycle for delicate fabrics.
- Do not squeeze.
- Use a special laundry bag.
- Some fabrics can only be chemically or dry cleaned. Be careful!
Note! Curtains should be hung while still damp to avoid deformation.
There are models made from non-standard materials: bamboo or rope. Wet cleaning is strictly prohibited for them. Dust is removed using a vacuum cleaner or a soft dry brush.
To ensure less dust settles on the canvas, it is necessary to ensure the room is regularly ventilated. This will help avoid constant cleaning of the product.
You can iron Roman blinds only inside out; select the mode depending on the material of the curtains
Materials for production
Once you have decided on the type of Roman blinds, you need to pay special attention to the fabric.
And the question here is not even in the design, which will most successfully combine with your non-woven wallpaper, but in the material itself, because different fabrics have different densities and different light transmittance. Curtain density depending on fabric type
Linen | 190-270 g/m² |
Cotton | 140-230 g/m² |
Synthetics | 110-360 g/m² |
Blended fabric | 120-390 g/m² |
Linen Roman blinds
Linen fabrics have been known for their quality since time immemorial. We present only the most important advantages of linen fabrics:
- Environmental friendliness
- Strength
- Keeps shape well
- Smooth
- Easy to care for
- Have antistatic properties
- Do not shrink during washing
Of course, the very first thing that catches your eye is their naturalness. Therefore, linen curtains are most often used in styles such as country, Provence, Mediterranean, and classic. When making linen curtains, printed patterns are not used. As a rule, the aesthetics of such curtains lies in their texture.
Due to their density, linen curtains have average light transmission, so these curtains are good to use in the living room or kitchen.
Cotton Roman blinds
Cotton is another material in demand for the production of textiles due to its environmental friendliness. This fabric is popular among designers because it is ideal for printed designs. Among the advantages of cotton Roman blinds are:
- Bright rich colors
- Wear resistance and strength
- Softness
- Resistance to thermal and chemical influences.
However, there are also disadvantages:
- Wrinkles easily
- Shrinks slightly during washing
- May turn yellow under constant exposure to sunlight
Such fabrics will be appropriate for making curtains for the kitchen and nursery.
Read about decorating a children's room for girls!
Synthetic Roman blinds
Curtains made of synthetic fabric are made from polymer fibers that do not exist in nature, so they can have the most incredible properties that are not typical for natural fabrics. For example:
- They don't wrinkle
- Repel dust, bacteria and microorganisms
- Easy to wash
- Very light
But remember that under the influence of temperature (for example, from a radiator or battery), such a curtain can become deformed!
Blend Roman blinds
Blended fabric is a fabric that is created from fibers of different properties. One piece of mixed fabric can use natural fibers (for example, cotton, silk), artificial or synthetic. The variety of such combinations gives rise to a wide selection of fabrics, from the lightest and almost transparent to the heavy and light-proof.
Light fabrics can be used in the kitchen, while thick mixed curtains are best used in the bedroom and nursery (especially if it is located on the sunny side of the house).
Features of using Roman blinds in the interior
Location of Roman blind curtain rod fastenings
Due to tailoring from a variety of fabrics, roller blinds are suitable for any interior. Various colors, textures, patterns will help you choose the most suitable option.
Colored materials will create a special atmosphere, painting the entire room in a certain color, giving the room a special touch. They are suitable for the design of a bedroom or children's room.
When arranging a living room, you should give preference to a material with a repeating pattern or a plain one, made of dense fabrics that look more laconic.
Plain Roman blinds made of thick fabric look great when combined with classic ones in a bright and cozy living room
Installing curtains on the balcony requires the use of light fabrics in light colors. White color will visually increase the area, and the light structure will not look bulky.
Translucent Roman blinds look great on a loggia or balcony
Simplicity and versatility allow you to combine curtains with other materials. They look great with weightless tulle, color-matched or straight, plain curtains.
Roman blinds with tulle in beige tones
Roman blinds have an elegant look, photos of which are presented in the article. They will subtly emphasize the style of the room, creating a unique design and will become an interesting addition to the style of an office space, studio or apartment.
Varieties
Once upon a time, a Roman blind was a piece of canvas that was draped over a window to protect it from the sun. Over time, such curtains have become much more functional, and now there are several types of Roman blinds for plastic windows:
Classic
When opened they are absolutely smooth, but when folded they form a horizontal roll or folds. This type of Roman blind will appeal to those who prefer simplicity and elegance.
Cascade
Cascade models are more massive. Even when open, they lie in spectacular soft folds.
Without frame
Frameless models are essentially just a piece of fabric that is attached to a frame and does not have rigid guides.
Modern manufacturers can offer not only different colors and designs, but also a variety of materials. Each of them has its own characteristics, pros and cons. Basically, the choice of material depends on the room, its design and functional purpose.
Cotton is quite easy to clean and durable. It is also an absolutely natural and pleasant-to-touch material. However, if you want to buy snow-white cotton curtains, be prepared for the fact that the fabric will turn yellow quite quickly in the light.
Linen fits perfectly into both a classic interior and, for example, the country or Provençal style that is fashionable today. It also refers to natural materials. Linen is not difficult to care for, although it will cost more than cotton.
Synthetic and mixed materials are good because they are practically not afraid of sunlight and are even easier to care for than curtains made from natural fabrics. But often synthetic fabric “reduces the cost of the interior,” so the choice of such options should be approached with special care.
Double
Double-layer combined curtains made from fabrics of different densities and colors. A thick canvas provides protection from the sun, while a lighter one gives the window space a harmonious look. Together inside they create a day and night effect.
The photo shows double Roman models in the interior of a children's room.
Photo curtains
Bright photo curtains decorate the window space and add sophistication and originality to the atmosphere.
Automatic
Motorized Roman curtains provide convenient adjustment of curtains, which can be done remotely using a special control panel.
The main differences between Roman and roller blinds
Roller blinds and Roman blinds differ in design, fabric and folding method
Despite their external similarity, Roman and roller blinds have significant differences.
Roman blinds form folds when raised, while roller blinds are wound into a roll, which is where their name comes from.
Roman fabric curtains look good in the bedroom and living room, complete with curtains made of the same fabric
Roller blinds are completely hidden in the upper part of the structure, while Roman blinds are only raised.
Roman blinds are in perfect harmony with any interior; they look complete even without tulle or curtains.
Special impregnation of roller blinds makes them less susceptible to contamination. However, they are difficult to disassemble for washing, unlike Roman ones.
Roller blinds are more practical, less dirty and easier to clean
Price differences. Roller blinds are much cheaper due to the simplicity of their fabrics and design.
The roll version is versatile and economical, but has some difficulties in cleaning and installation. Roman - more susceptible to dust accumulation in folds, but easy to care for.
Roller blinds look simpler, but cheaper and more practical
It is necessary to choose the appropriate type taking into account the characteristics of the interior, operation and personal preferences of the customer.
Roller blinds can be successfully combined with tulle if they are made from medium-density natural fabrics
The choice of Roman blinds will significantly transform the room, and their long-term use and ease of care will save you from unnecessary problems.
Advantages and disadvantages
Roman blinds are very popular when decorating the interior of an apartment.
They have such advantages as:
- Easy regulation of the amount of light in the room. All that is necessary is to turn the mechanism that is responsible for raising and lowering the curtains. The design itself is very reliable and durable.
- The color does not fade under constant exposure to sunlight.
- The curtain fabric is easy to wash in a washing machine. You can add either soap or a special detergent. It is better to run an additional rinse, as unsightly stains may remain on the fabric. It is also recommended to use the delicate cycle when washing so that the seams of the woven fabric do not come apart.
- Variety in design. Any colors are used: from the brightest to more pastel. It is possible to apply drawings or geometric patterns. They also have a wide variety of widths, which makes them easy to match to any window size. There is a possibility of individual order. Roman blinds can easily fit into any interior. They will give the window a stylish and elegant look.
- They tolerate moisture well. Because of this property, they are good to hang in the bathroom and kitchen.
- Compactness and versatility allows you to fix Roman blinds in the internal window space, which will save more space compared to conventional curtains. And some models are equipped with a special curtain rod, which is easy to hang in the most difficult to reach places.
- Safety. The lower part is weighted with a special device that will prevent the curtains from swelling in the presence of a draft in the room.
In addition to all the obvious advantages, Roman blinds also have some disadvantages:
- Every time you decide to wash the curtains, you will have to remove the plastic or wooden weights.
- The use of natural fabrics may cause them to gradually shrink after a certain number of washes.
Photo gallery of beautiful and interesting Roman blinds in the interior:
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Curtain decor
The most interesting and original ways to decorate Roman blinds:
- Curtain tape. Creates a beautiful, even, neat drapery and folds.
- Brushes. They add playfulness and charm to the entire tent design.
- Fringe. It emphasizes the appearance of the curtains and gives them a unique personality and uniqueness.
- Arches. They look very sophisticated and create a positive and joyful atmosphere.
Children's room
Roman curtains for a children's room can be of bright, cheerful shades.
Or they are made in rather restrained colors, if this dictates the overall style of the children's room.
In the nursery, you can safely experiment with decoration: add fringe, beads, tassels or ribbons.
For children, it is better to choose curtains made from natural, eco-friendly fabric, preferably with a dense and smooth texture. It can be satin, poplin, thick linen or silk, denim. These curtains are breathable, durable and easy to care for.
The illumination of the nursery has to be changed depending on what function it currently performs: a playroom, a bedroom or a classroom. Therefore, it is better to combine Roman blinds in this room with drapes or curtains.
If you prefer to decorate a window with only one type of curtain, choose a model from two fabrics of different densities. Another option is Roman blinds that are independent from each other, hung in two rows.
For windows in a children's room, manually controlled curtains are preferable. The remote control mechanism is too tempting for children, and therefore it often breaks down in the nursery.
Remember that the background color of the curtains affects the child's psyche. Thus, blue, cyan and green colors relieve stress and calm, red activates and encourages action, yellow and orange lift your spirits and improve appetite.
Options for attaching curtains to the cornice
The following options are possible:
- Loops . Mounted models have a very simple design, but at the same time very functional.
- Rings. Holder rings are especially suitable for laconic and simple designs.
- Braid. Using tape makes attaching curtains much easier. This gives the curtains a more decorative look.
- Strings. Tie tablecloths look very elegant, but at the same time cozy and welcoming.
- Belts. The original type of fastening gives the window an original and interesting look.
- Eyelets. Convenient and most famous support. Curtains with eyelets look modern and stylish.
Curtain color palette
Roman blinds come in different variations. You can find designer patterns, edging materials, and striped fabric. Some patterns are similar to wallpaper fabrics. Looks original and fresh. For example, one of the most popular models is called “Verba”. It depicts the leaves of the tree of the same name. You can order fabric with a photo from your archive. It looks no less impressive.
Solid colors set the tone and atmosphere of the entire room:
- Gray materials will help you relax. This palette relieves stress and resets the style of a room if there are too many colors in it.
- White fabrics make the room brighter and cleaner.
- Bright peaceful blue color. If the furniture and walls are made in the same color scheme, the curtains will become a bright element and become an accent.
- Green is the color of joy. This fabric will create a feeling of eternal summer.
- Beige materials create a relaxing and family atmosphere.
- Turquoise and blue shades are suitable for a teenager's room. These colors will help you focus.
Textiles with stripes or curly patterns will help visually increase the area of the room.
However, the drawing should not be too small. If the composition has a wide variety of colors, then curtains can make the interior heavier.
White
The airy color brings freshness, lightness and a sense of ease to the room. Black and white drawings in their appearance resemble an imitation of zebra skin.
Green
It adds brightness to the room and fills it with light. Roman curtains in green or mint shades will decorate the entire room and blend harmoniously with the interior.
Beige
This delicate and eye-pleasing nude color creates a calm design without sharp contrasts.
Blue
It attracts attention, but at the same time creates a calm and relaxing atmosphere.
The photo shows a children's room with windows decorated with blue Roman blinds and curtains.
Grey
Attractive and relaxing. It visually unloads the room and does not strain you emotionally.