Custom curtains and blinds can add thousands at the end of a renovation. But are they something you really need to spend big on straight away?
This week on Don’t Waste Your Money On…, we’re talking curtains and window treatments: one of those finishing touches that can make a huge difference to a room, but can also be very easy to upgrade later.
We share what we’ve actually done in our own homes, from €5-a-metre fabric and ready-made H&M curtains to IKEA sheers, inexpensive roller blinds, DIY café curtains, and online made-to-measure options.
We also talk about the details that can make inexpensive curtains look much better, why getting the measurements and hanging position right matters enormously, and the circumstances where we absolutely think custom window treatments are worth the investment.
What we cover:
- Why we’d prioritise spending on the windows themselves before curtains and blinds Why window treatments are something you can often upgrade later Kate’s €5-a-metre Fabric Outlet curtains Where we’ve found good ready-made curtains Finding extra-long curtains for high ceilings DIY café curtains for privacy IKEA sheers and inexpensive roller blinds Ordering made-to-measure curtains and blinds online How doing your own measuring and installation can save significantly The right height, width, and length for hanging curtains Why curtains that are too short can ruin the look Layering sheers, roller blinds, and curtains Curtain poles versus ceiling tracks Planning recessed tracks during a renovation Privacy window film as a low-cost alternative Roman blinds and why accurate measuring is critical When custom curtains, blinds, or shutters really are worth paying for
The big takeaway:
Spend on the window first.
Good windows, good installation, insulation, and weatherproofing are difficult and expensive to change later. Curtains and blinds aren't.
If the renovation budget is disappearing, inexpensive curtains hung beautifully can get you surprisingly far, and the dream custom versions can come later.
Products and suppliers mentioned:
- Fabric Outlet, Newbridge and Cork Harry Corry curtain poles H&M curtains IKEA HILJA sheers IKEA STOCKHOLM sheer curtains IKEA roller blinds Interior Fashions, Tipperary Gotain Nordic Knots Hang Man, Dublin Window privacy film
Follow the podcast on Instagram @ripitup_podcast_official, or follow us - Jenny is @workerscottage and Kate is @victorianrathmines