Curtains do more than block light or provide privacy—they define the mood of a room. The right curtains can soften hard spaces, add pattern, colour and texture, and even absorb sound to reduce echo, particularly in larger rooms. At Dible & Roy, with over 45 years of interior design experience across Bath, Bradford on Avon, we help clients choose made-to-measure curtains that are both beautiful and functional.
This guide walks you through everything you need to consider when selecting the perfect curtains for your home, step by step.
Step 1: Define the Purpose of Your Curtains
The first step is to think about what you want your curtains to do.
- Light Control: Do you want to block out light completely (ideal for bedrooms) or just soften it (great for living rooms)?
- Privacy: Are you overlooked by neighbours or facing the street?
- Insulation: Do you need thermal interlining to keep warmth in during the colder months? Or cool your room down in the Summer?
- Style: Are you looking for a classic, tailored look, a more relaxed feel or are you looking to create a focal point in your room?
Understanding your goal helps determine the fabric type, lining, and heading style best suited to your space.
At Dible & Roy, our design experts help you pinpoint exactly what you need. Book a 30-minute appointment with Lizzie or Amanda for tailored advice.
Step 2: Measure Your Windows Correctly
Getting the right measurements is crucial for a professional finish. Poorly fitting curtains can look untidy and not function as they should.
- Width: Measure the curtain track or pole (not the window frame itself). If you don’t have one installed yet, decide how far you want the curtains to extend beyond the window. Consider extending the track or pole beyond the window enough to allow the curtains to clear the window reveal to maximise the light when the curtains are open.
- Drop: Decide whether you want your curtains to hang just below the sill, to the floor, or puddled slightly on the floor for a more luxurious look. Most curtains will sit below the pole or track.
If you’re unsure, our home measuring service ensures your curtains will fit perfectly the first time.
Step 3: Choose the Right Fabric
Curtain fabric affects how the curtains hang, how much light they block, and how they look in your space.
Popular Fabric Types:
- Cotton: Light, breathable, and versatile
- Velvet: Rich, warm, and sumptuous – perfect for insulation
- Linen: Light, airy, and ideal for informal settings
- Silk: Elegant and luxurious with a natural sheen
- Blends: Combine the best of natural and synthetic properties
At Dible & Roy, our fabric library is one of the largest in the South West. You can browse a wide range of patterns, textures, and colour palettes, all in one place.
Step 4: Pick the Right Curtain Lining
The right lining can dramatically enhance curtain performance and longevity.
Types of Curtain Lining:
- Standard lining: Adds strength and stability whilst also reducing some light
- Blackout lining: Ideal for bedrooms or media rooms
- Interlining: Adds thickness, heat retention and a enhances the drape
We’ll help you choose the right lining to match your fabric and your room’s needs.
Step 5: Select a Heading Style
The curtain heading refers to how the fabric is attached to the pole or track and influences the final look.
Common Heading Styles:
- Pencil pleat: A classic gathered finish and flexible choice
- Pinch / Cartridge / Euro pleat: A more formal, structured look which stacks back neatly
- Wave: Clean, contemporary style for specialised tracks, providing a uniformed look that stacks back well
- Eyelet: Minimalist, best suited for metal poles
Dible & Roy supplies and installs a wide range of curtain poles and tracks, ensuring your curtains hang correctly and move smoothly.
Step 6: Choose Colours and Patterns Thoughtfully
Curtains are a large visual element in a room, so their colour and pattern can anchor or transform the space.
- Neutral tones blend easily with most décor and can make a room feel airy
- Bold colours create a focal point and can complement artwork or upholstery
- Patterns add interest and character—stripes can elongate a space, florals bring a touch of nature into the room, and geometrics can add a clean, modern and striking statement.
Browse hundreds of design options in our showroom in Bradford on Avon, where you can look through the collections at your leisure. If you think you will require assistance book an appointment with our team who can help coordinate curtain fabrics with your furnishings, flooring, or existing colour scheme.
Step 7: Professional Fitting for a Perfect Finish
Beautiful curtains deserve expert installation. Our team can handle everything—from measuring and creation to fitting and final styling.
Why choose professional fitting?
- Curtains hang properly and drape as intended
- Tracks or poles are fixed appropriately and securely
- We’ll make sure everything fits and functions flawlessly
Why Choose Dible & Roy?
- Over 40 years of interior design experience across Bath, and the South West
- Extensive fabric and wallpaper library with samples from top design houses
- Dedicated in-house team offering home measuring, design consultations, and professional fitting
- Family-run business built on trust, quality, and personal service
Whether you’re refreshing one room or updating your whole home, we’ll help you choose curtains that combine beauty, performance, and durability.
Visit Our Showroom or Book a Consultation
We invite you to explore our two-floor showroom in Bradford on Avon, open Monday to Friday. If you need help choosing curtains, poles, blinds, or fabrics, book a 30-minute slot with one of our interior design consultants. We are usually booking at least a week ahead, so book early to secure your slot.
Walk-in visitors are always welcome to browse, but for detailed advice, we recommend scheduling an appointment.
Dible & Roy Interiors
Bradford on Avon Showroom
Open Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm (4pm Fridays)
Closed Bank Holidays
Appointments available: 10am, 11am, 2pm, and 3pm
Consultants: Lizzie and Amanda
