What is a Tab Top Curtain?
A Tab-Top Curtain is a type of curtain commonly found in British homes and elsewhere. It's distinguished by loops or tabs sewn along the top edge of the curtain fabric. These tabs are usually made from the same material as the curtain itself or sometimes a contrasting fabric. Tab top curtains are designed to be slipped over a curtain rod or pole, allowing the stunning curtains to hang in soft, casual folds.
Tab-top curtains are popular for their simplicity and ease of use in any space. Tab-top curtains often give a relaxed, informal look to a room compared to more structured styles like pencil pleat or eyelet curtains. Tab-top curtains can be made from various fabrics in different colours and patterns, ranging from lightweight sheers to heavier materials for better light blocking and insulation.
In terms of functionality, tab-top curtains are straightforward to install and remove for washing or replacement. Tab-top curtains are a versatile choice that can complement both traditional and modern interiors, depending on the fabric and design chosen.
How Are Tab Top Curtains Measured?
In Britain, tab-top curtains are typically measured in terms of their drop (length) and width. Here's how it's usually done:
Drop (Length):
The drop of the curtain refers to its length from the top edge attached to the curtain pole to the bottom edge. This measurement is crucial as it determines how much of the window or door the curtain will cover.
To measure the drop of the tab-top curtains, start from where you intend to hang the curtain rod or pole (usually just above the window frame or higher for a taller look) down to where you want the curtain to end (such as just touching the floor or hanging slightly above it).
It's common to measure in inches or centimetres for the tab top curtains, depending on personal preference or standard practices of the curtain manufacturer.
Width:
The width of the tab-top curtains refers to how wide the curtain fabric is when it's fully spread out. This measurement is essential to ensure the curtain covers the entire width of the window or door totally.
To measure the width, decide how much coverage you want the tab-top curtains to provide. Some people prefer tab-top curtains that are twice the width of the window to create a fuller look when closed. Others might opt for less gathering for tab-top curtains, depending on the desired aesthetic.
If you're measuring for a perfect pair of tab-top curtains (two panels), ensure you measure each panel individually to get the correct total width for coverage of curtains.
Fabric Allowance:
When buying tab top curtains, it is a convenient choice to consider any additional fabric needed for hemming or adjustments of the curtains’ tabs, especially if you plan to use them with a specific curtain pole diameter. Some tab-top curtains come with adjustable tabs to accommodate different rod sizes, but it's always good to check the product details.
In Conclusion:
In summary, tab-top curtains in Britain are measured primarily by their drop (length) and width to ensure they fit and hang properly. Taking accurate measurements ensures you get tab-top curtains with blackout lining that not only look good but also function well in terms of light control and privacy.
