I would like to make cafe curtains and have a question regarding measurements. Is there a set formula for figuring how much of the window should be covered by the valance and how much by the bottom panel? If the window is 60 inches top to bottom, should 15 inches be valance, 15 inches open, and 30 inches bottom panel? Also, I would like to make a table runner. Is there a standard measure for lengthwise table overlap and a width measurement such as 1/3 or 1/2 table width? I made a trip to the library, but was unsuccessful in finding much help. I found a number of books telling me how wide to make curtain panels, but nothing on breaking the curtains lengthwise for proper proprotions. Also, I found a couple books showing all kinds of embellishments for tablerunners, but nothing with the basics telling if the table is 72 by 42, the runner should be ? x ?. I would appreciate any suggestions.
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Are you near a store that sells patterns? Since the big pattern companies sell patterns for cafe curtains there might be measurements on the back of the envelope or inside that would help you.
If all else fails I would use some paper (newspaper, printer paper, etc.) to get a visual picture to determine the dimensions I liked best. The table runner should be no problem since it is flat. For the window I would use tape to hold the paper up. Be sure to leave enough space to let the amount of light that you like into the room.
Hope this helps.
Ginna
I will check out the patterns for both curtains and table runners. When you begin looking around, there are so many sizes of both tables and windows, I don't know how much guidance they will give, but it is worth a try. Your idea of visual perception is a good one. I am always concerned that I am missing the obvious on things like this. My sewing skills are pretty good, but the more art-related visualization skills are not nearly as strong. I don't see things in proportion, color, texture, etc. I guess one of the major requirements is that it is pleasing to those who have to look at it, and that is mostly me. Thank you for the suggestions.
Thiss site should help you. Click around on the curtain rod fo other ideas.
http://www.alternative-windows.co.uk/cafe-curtains.htm
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