Fabric
Fabric is the single most important element in a drapery's overall appearance, construction and style. It is essential to choose a fabric that will drape well, that will hold its shape, and is the right weight for the desired style. In a period or traditional room, it is often nice to also use an under drapery, which adds another layer of pattern or texture. Or, you could use a faux under drapery, attached to each side panel.
Linings
Although sunlight filtering through unlined curtains can be pretty, most draperies, with the exception of sheers, should be lined to protect the fabric, to block light when desired, to help retain the shape, and to extend the life. Use a lightweight lining for draperies that puddle at the bottom. For a billowy look, use a lightweight lining and only attach it at the sides, and not at the bottom, so it will fill with air and move. Specialty linings, such as blackout lining, provide complete darkness when desired.
Sheers without lining
Silk draperies with cotton lining
It is important that the weight of the interlining be suitable for the weight of the face fabric and the style of the drapery. Designers of thick, luxurious draperies often use bump, which is a heavier, blanket-like cotton or flannel interlining that also provides insulation. An interior designer can advise you regarding the fabric, lining, and interlining that is best suited to your style of draperies.
White linen draperies with heavier cotton interlining
When should you use tiebacks or holdbacks, and when should drapery panels hang straight? It depends on the overall look you're trying to achieve, how much of the window and the view you want to see, and the amount of space available on either side of the window for the drapery panels to stack when they are open. Tiebacks are often used in more formal or traditional settings, or conversely, for country-style draperies. Straight panels look right in a cleaner, more modern setting. Both new and old houses often have very pretty windows that homeowners don't want to obscure, so tiebacks can be used to reveal more of the glass.
Tiebacks in the same fabric as the draperies
A tassel tieback
A metal holdback
photographs and fabric chart courtesy of Window Fashions Magazine
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