Bare windows? What to do, what to do?

Going from "bare" to "wow" doesn't have to be overwhelming. Whether you plan to dress your windows yourself or hire a professional to help you, use these basic steps to get help wrap your mind around the project:

1. First and foremost, consider function, function, and function! What purpose does the window dressing need to achieve? The primary purpose might be privacy (as in a bedroom or bathroom), darkening the room for sleeping, purely aesthetic in nature, or a mix of these or other functions. Defining the function of the new window dressing will automatically narrow your choices.
2. Next, what is the feel you want to create - or the theme you want to continue - in the room? Don't fall into the trap of feeling like your tastes must fit into a defined genre (i.e., traditional, contemporary, modern, etc.). Defining your own style will make the space more personal and comfortable to you. Keep in mind that while the window decor is important to setting the tone of a room, it is only a part of what will give a room its personality. Think about how you want the windows to work with the colors, furnishings, flooring, art, accessories and other fabrics in the room. Perhaps they need to be updated as well?
3. Now it's time to consider your budget. There is no use looking at fabrics and trimmings unless you have already defined your budget. Too many people have had their hearts broken after falling in love with their "must-have" fabrics, then realizing they'd need to triple or quadruple their budgets in order to introduce them into their homes. Whether working with your favorite fabric or home store, or you have hired a professional to make your window treatments for you, be sure to communicate your budget up-front.
4. Here's the fun part! Choose some sample fabrics, beads, tassels, rods, finials, the works! Place the pieces-parts in the room and live with them for a few days to really get a feel of what speaks to you. Don't be afraid to swap things out and try unusual combinations. Whether you believe it or not, you'll know it when you see it.
5. Next to the functionality, the installation of the treatments is perhaps the most important step. If you plan to do-it-yourself, make sure you have the proper ladders, tools, hardware and help. If you've hired out your project, most quality professionals will supervise the installation and stand by their work.

So there you have it!

• Function
• Atmosphere/Tone
• Budget
• Materials
• Installation

Use these guidelines as your checklist and - whether doing it yourself of working with a professional - you'll decrease your frustration and increase the likelihood of a finished product you'll love.