null

About Curtains

What are Curtains?

Curtains are one of the most versatile and timeless window furnishings in Australian homes. They don’t just frame a window — they enhance privacy, control light, improve insulation, and bring texture to your interiors. Whether you live in a breezy coastal home, a suburban family house, or an inner-city apartment, curtains adapt to your needs and style.

At Blinds on the Net, our custom Australian-made curtains are available in sheer, light filtering, and blockout fabrics, with a wide range of colours, textures, and heading styles to choose from. Designed for the Australian climate, they help keep warmth in during cooler months and shield interiors from harsh Aussie summer sun.

 

How do Curtains work?

Curtains are fabric panels hung from a rod or track that can be drawn open or closed by hand, wand, cord, or motor. When open, the panels stack neatly to one or both sides of the window; when closed, they provide privacy and control light.

The amount of space taken up when the curtains are open (known as the stack) depends on the fullness, fabric thickness, and heading style you choose. In Australian homes with wide sliding doors or large picture windows, planning the stack position is important so it doesn’t block your view or door access.

How do Curtains Work?

What are the different styles of Curtain headings?

The heading is the top section of your curtain where it connects to the track or rod. It shapes the way the fabric falls, affects how easily it moves, and plays a big part in the overall style. Here’s a fresh look at the most popular headings used in Australian homes:

Wave Fold

Designed for a soft, continuous ripple from ceiling to floor, this style works beautifully in modern, open spaces. The curtain glides smoothly on the track, with each fold evenly spaced for a relaxed but organised look.

S Fold

A close cousin of the wave fold, but with folds that create a slightly sharper “S” shape. It delivers a neat, architectural finish and is a favourite in minimalist interiors.

Triple Pinch Pleat

Formal and full-bodied, this heading uses three small pleats sewn into the fabric at regular intervals. It produces a structured drape and a high-end feel — think elegant dining rooms or statement windows.

Double Pinch Pleat

Two pleats per fold give this style a softer edge than the triple pleat. It suits bedrooms and living spaces where you want a balance of refinement and comfort.

Pencil Pleat

This classic heading creates lots of narrow, gathered folds. Its adaptability makes it a go-to option for both casual and semi-formal rooms, and it can be adjusted for different fullness levels.

Curtain Rings

Here, the curtain attaches to individual rings that slide along a decorative rod. It’s simple, functional, and works well in coastal, rustic, or informal interiors.

When choosing a heading, think beyond looks — consider how often you’ll open the curtains, how much space you have for stacking, and whether you prefer a tailored or more relaxed finish.

Which Curtain heading is best?

The “best” curtain heading depends on your room style, how you use the space, and the look you want to achieve. In Australia, these are the most popular choices and where they work best:

  • Wave Fold Curtains – Best for modern, open-plan living areas and large windows where you want a smooth, uniform drape that’s easy to operate.

  • S Fold Curtains – Great for contemporary spaces needing a clean, architectural look. Works well on both tracks and rods.

  • Triple Pinch Pleat – The go-to for formal living rooms, dining rooms, and traditional interiors where a luxurious, tailored look is desired.

  • Double Pinch Pleat – Perfect for achieving elegance without the formality of a triple pleat — ideal for bedrooms or semi-formal living areas.

  • Pencil Pleat – A flexible, budget-friendly option that can adapt to casual, semi-formal, or transitional styles.

  • Curtain Rings – Suits relaxed, coastal, or country interiors, adding character and charm.

  • Rod Pocket – Best for decorative, stationary curtains in lightweight fabrics — often used in bedrooms, kitchens, or where you don’t need to open and close them daily.

When choosing, consider not just the look, but also functionality:

  • Do you need the curtain to glide easily for daily use? Go Wave Fold or S Fold.

  • Is insulation or blockout a priority? Pinch pleats and pencil pleats with linings help reduce light gaps.

What are the different ways you can mount a Curtain?

Top Fix or Ceiling Mount

Curtains are mounted to the ceiling or bulkhead above the window. This method is perfect for Australian homes with limited wall space around windows, or when you want to make a room feel taller and more open. It creates a sleek, floor-to-ceiling look and works beautifully for large sliding doors and contemporary interiors.

Front Fix or Face Mount

Curtains are mounted directly to the wall above the window frame. This is the traditional and most common mounting style in Australian homes, offering easy installation and smooth operation. Face mounting also allows you to position your curtains wider than the window, helping to reduce light gaps and maximise views when the curtains are open.

What are the different ways you can customise how a Curtain opens?

Customise how your Curtain opens by choosing the draw direction and stack position—left, right, centre, off-centre or multi-opening—to suit walkways, handles and views. Decide this while standing inside the room, facing the window/door.

Left Draw

One panel covers the whole width and stacks on the left when opened.
Good for: sliding doors that open on the right, furniture on the right, or when you want the view clear on the right.

Right Draw

One panel covers the whole width and stacks on the right when opened.
Good for: sliding doors that open on the left, furniture on the left, or when you want the view clear on the left.

Centre Opening

Two panels meet in the middle and stack left and right. Width is split evenly into a pair.
Good for: symmetrical windows, picture windows, and rooms where you want a balanced look.

Off Centre (Custom) Opening

Two panels meet off‑centre so one panel is wider than the other. Width is split unequally into a pair.
Good for: when a door handle or walkway sits to one side, or you want most of the stack on a single side.

Multi Opening (Custom)

Three panels with two opening points (e.g., left/centre/right stacks). Width is split unequally into three.
Good for: very wide spans, corner runs, or when you need access points in specific places.

Quick tips for choosing Curtain orientation.

  • Follow the traffic: Put the stack away from the main walkway or door handle.

  • Protect the view: Stack the fabric on the side with the least important outlook.

  • Plan stack space: Ensure there’s enough wall for the stacked fabric (especially S‑Fold/Wave).

  • Mind obstructions: Note power points, pelmets, split‑system heads, or furniture that could clash with the stack.

(If you’re considering off‑centre or multi‑openings, check our Custom Opening Styles section for fixed vs free‑hanging options. Note: custom openings ordered online can’t be motorised.)

 

What does Curtain opening style mean?

Opening style describes how many panels you have and how they move on the track (where they park/stack when open, and whether they can cross the centre). Decide this while standing inside, facing the window/door.

One-Way (single panel)

Left Fixed (one-way left)

A single curtain that stacks on the left when open. The leading edge is attached to a master carrier, so it always parks left and won’t cross the middle.
Use when: the right side is a walkway, handle, or feature view you want kept clear.

Left Free-hanging (one-way left, free hanging)

A single curtain intended to park left, but it isn’t “captured”—you can slide it left or right as needed.
Use when: you want the flexibility to re-park the curtain on either side.

Right Fixed (one-way right)

A single curtain that stacks on the right when open; attached to a master carrier so it always parks right.
Use when: the left side is the main access point or has furniture you don’t want covered.

Right Free-hanging (one-way right, free hanging)

A single curtain usually parked right, but can slide either way because it isn’t captured.
Use when: you want one panel with freedom to re-position.

Split Draw (two panels)

Centre Fixed (split, captured centre)

Two curtains meet in the middle; each panel only travels to its own side (left panel → left, right panel → right).
Use when: you want a balanced look and predictable operation.

Centre Free-hanging split, free, floating)

Two panels meet in the middle but aren’t locked. You can slide one or both panels either way (e.g., push both to the left to access a door).
Use when: you need occasional full clearance on one side.

Custom Split (off centre & multi opening)

One Custom Opening (off-centre split)

Two panels meet off-centre so one is wider. Choose fixed (each panel locked to its side) or free-hanging (either panel can cross the meeting point).
Use when: handles, walkways or furniture make a centred split impractical.

Two Custom Openings (three panels)

Three curtains with two meeting points (e.g., left/centre/right). Width is divided unequally to suit your plan. Choose fixed or free-hanging behaviour.
Use when: very wide spans or corner runs need multiple access points.

What are custom opening styles (Fixed vs Free-hanging)?

Custom opening styles describe how panels behave at their meeting point(s). The key choice is whether panels are captured to a side (fixed) or free to slide past the join (free-hanging) for flexible access.

Custom Openings – Fixed
Panels are captured to the sides you nominate. They won’t cross the meeting point(s).
Benefits: consistent stacking, tidy look, reliable operation (and better for motorisation).

Custom Openings – Free-hanging
Panels are not captured. You can slide them past the meeting point(s) and re-park as needed.
Benefits: maximum flexibility for doors and busy traffic areas.

Note: When ordering online at Blinds on the Net, custom openings can’t be motorised. Get in touch if you’d like to discuss a bespoke motorised setup.

What are the different Curtain finish lengths?

Your finish length is how the curtain meets the floor. It affects the look, ease of cleaning, and how the fabric behaves with everyday use and seasonal movement.

Off The Floor

Sits just above the floor for a crisp, modern line and easy cleaning. We allow ~10–15 mm clearance (varies by fabric).

Floor Length

Kisses the floor for a classic, tailored look — great in living rooms and main bedrooms.

Pooled / Floor Puddling

Extends past floor length to create a soft puddle of fabric for luxury and drama. We add about 30 mm to your supplied drop.

What Curtain hem options can I choose?

A hem adds weight and stability to the bottom edge so the curtain hangs smoothly. The depth you choose influences drape, durability and the overall look.

Weighted Hem

A concealed weight helps lightweight and sheer fabrics hang evenly — especially useful in breezy areas.

10mm Hem

A minimal edge that suits delicate, lightweight fabrics where you want the hem to visually “disappear.”

70mm Hem

A versatile workhorse — adds a little weight for nicer fall and suits most fabric weights. For very long drops, a vertical join may be required.

100mm Hem

A statement hem that adds body and a touch of insulation — ideal for heavy fabrics and luxurious spaces. For very long drops, a vertical join may be required.

What are the different Curtain Tracks available?

Your track choice should suit the mount (ceiling or face), the span and weight of the curtain, the heading style, and whether you want motorisation now or later.

Designer Curtain Track

Low-profile and sleek — ideal for top fix/ceiling mount and S-Fold/Wave headings for a clean, ceiling-to-floor look.

Residential Curtain Track

A versatile face-mount option that handles corners, box and bay windows — a great match for typical Australian architecture.

Commercial Curtain Track

Heavy-duty construction with wheeled carriers for smooth travel on large or weighted curtains.

Motorised Curtain Tracks

Add remote or smart-home control for effortless operation — excellent on wide spans, high windows and daily-use doors.

Can Curtain tracks be bent to suit my window shape?

Yes. Curtain track bending allows tracks to follow the curve or angle of bay windows, corner windows, or other architectural features. Custom bending ensures the track fits perfectly, allowing your curtains to glide smoothly around the shape of your window or room. This is particularly useful in older Australian homes with unique window layouts or in modern designs with curved walls. Get in contact with us to discuss how we can custom bend your curtains tracks.

Are Curtains better than Blinds?

Curtains and blinds both have their strengths, and many Australian homeowners choose to use both in different rooms.

Curtains

Curtains add softness, help reduce noise, and provide an elegant finish. They’re ideal for living rooms, bedrooms, and spaces where you want to layer in texture.

Blinds

Blinds offer a streamlined look, take up less space, and are easy to operate for everyday use. They are also highly functional and have varying levels of light control.

In many Australian homes, the winning combination is blockout blinds paired with sheer curtains. This setup gives you flexible light control during the day, privacy at night, and the insulation benefits of curtains.

What are the Best fabrics for Curtains in Australia?

Choosing the right fabric is about balancing style with the demands of the Australian climate:

  • Sheer Curtain Fabrics – Light and airy, perfect for coastal breezes or sunny open-plan living areas. They soften glare while allowing daylight in.

  • Light Filtering Curtain Fabrics – Let in natural light but obscure the view for daytime privacy. Great for suburban living rooms or home offices.

  • Blockout Curtain Fabrics – Ideal for bedrooms, theatre rooms, and areas needing insulation against both summer heat and winter cold.

  • Thermal Curtain Linings – Add a layer of insulation to help keep homes cooler in hot Aussie summers and warmer during chilly winters.

How do I block out all light with Curtains?

For complete darkness — essential for bedrooms, shift workers, or home theatres — choose:

  1. A true blockout fabric or blockout lining.
    Face-fit installation so the curtains extend past the window frame.

  2. Track or rod placement 150–200mm above the window and beyond each side to stop light leakage.

In the Australian summer, blockout curtains also act as a heat shield, reducing heat gain and protecting furniture from UV damage.

 

Are Curtains practical for the Australian climate?

For complete darkness — essential for bedrooms, shift workers, or home theatres — choose:

  1. A true blockout fabric or blockout lining.
    Face-fit installation so the curtains extend past the window frame.

  2. Track or rod placement 150–200mm above the window and beyond each side to stop light leakage.

In the Australian summer, blockout curtains also act as a heat shield, reducing heat gain and protecting furniture from UV damage.

 

How long do Curtains last?

With quality fabrics and proper care, Australian-made curtains can last 10–15 years or more. Longevity depends on UV exposure, humidity levels, and regular maintenance. Choosing fade-resistant fabrics is a smart move in sunny Aussie climates.

How do I care for Curtains?

  • Vacuum regularly with a soft brush attachment.

  • Spot clean marks promptly.

  • Follow the fabric care label — many sheers and poly-blends are machine-washable, while lined or delicate fabrics may need professional dry cleaning.

  • In humid regions, keep curtains slightly open during the day to prevent mould or mildew.

Can Curtains be motorised?

Yes. Motorised curtains are ideal for large windows, hard-to-reach areas, or anyone wanting added convenience. They can be controlled via remote, wall switch, or integrated with a smart home system for voice or app control — perfect for the modern Australian lifestyle.

Should I choose Ready-Made or Custom Made Curtains?

Roman blinds are definitely a practical choice with their simple mechanism to lift the fabric into simple pleated folds via cord with a cord lock, chain or by the press of a button if you opt for a motorised Roman blind.

Shop Australian custom made Curtains

fabric-ceramic

Sold out
fabric-ceramic

Sold out
fabric-ceramic

Sold out

Need help?

If you would like some help regarding motorised blinds, feel free to contact us at info@blindsonthenet.com.au or call 1300 852 912.

Free Samples - Free samples delivered Australia wide
Measuring Guides - Videos and guides to make measuring easy
Installation Guides - Simple to follow how to install videos and guides