A Decorative Curtain Pole To Enhance Room Decor
A drapery system can be made attractive by matching pattern and textures of drapery fabric, hardware and accessories with room d?�cor. A decorative curtain pole and finials add to the beauty of the window treatment. The variety of rods and hardware available on the market can suit any budget or decorating need.
Hardware includes the rod, curtain pole brackets, finials and rings. Materials and decorative styles can be matched for a classic look, or mixed for an eclectic or casual look. Materials include plastic, acrylic, glass, various woods, and several types of metal including brass, aluminum, cast iron and steel. Metal curtain rods come in a variety of finishes including satin, polished, painted and distressed. Most materials come in several decorative styles including fluted, smoothed, reeded, twisted and patterned. Each material and style gives a definitive look which can complement the decorative scheme of the room.
Curtain poles come in standard diameters, but can also be custom-made. Standard diameters are 1 3/8, 2 and 3 inches. Other ready-made sizes include 1 1/8, 1 7/8 and 2 A� inches. Rods come in standard lengths as well, typically 4, 6 and 8 feet. For longer lengths, rods can be special ordered to the desired size or segments can be joined. Extra brackets are needed for longer lengths. Most poles can be fitted with corded tracks for easy opening and closing.
Finials are decorative end pieces that keep the material from sliding off the rod. The variety of materials, designs and motifs of these pieces is almost infinite. Materials for finials include those used for rods as well as others such as crystal, ceramic and porcelain. Classic motifs include balls, acanthus, pineapple and flowers like honeysuckle, lilies and lotus. Others complement furniture styles such as Regency, Sheraton and Hepplewhite.
Although straight rods are most commonly used, specialty rods are made for unusual windows such as corners, arches and bays. Curved and bendable rods can be special ordered or cut to size from packaged kits. If you choose to use net or sheers as well as heavier drapes or blackout curtains, double and triple poles accommodate multiple sets. Special brackets are made to bear the additional weight.
The styles, materials and hardware available provide ample choices to suit decorative themes from formal classic to avant-garde and retro. On-line and in-store specialty shops often have trained staff to assist in evaluating your needs and recommending appropriate products.
