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Picked up this comforter and wondering what kind of curtains would go with it. This is for a bedroom in the basement. A picture of the window set up follows. Here's the comforter:
(can't figure out how to post 2 pics in one posting) Can you do it from Picasa?

This is what the windows look like. (These aren't ours but it's similar to what we'll have when the basement's finished.)

Nance, will that be the paint color in the basement?

Any other accent colors you plan to use in the room - besides possibly the options in the comforter?

Any other fabrics or upholstery colors previously selected for the room?

And, what's the color scheme for either other rooms in the basement and/or your home? Adjacent rooms?

Sorry for all the questions but it might give posters a better idea what you want and/or need. Otherwise, without the above info, I'd probably say neutral grey walls plus your choice of one of the comforter's colors on the windows. Or, perhaps the reverse, if you don't need/want to remain neutral on the walls.

BTW, if the windows are that width, I'd consider using wider rods and more drapery to make the room feel grander.

All, JMHO.

Good Luck!

Any of the colors in the comforter would make pretty draperies. I probably wouldn't choose silk as the comforter has a casual feeling to me, but any other fabric would probably work.

Hey thanks, gracie.
So far this is the only "color" going on. I like the idea of gray walls instead of the dark beige. (the pic I posted was just for the window style) in the room.

Because of the 8" shelf under the window, I think I will only be able to do "sill length" curtains don't you think?

Do you think I should stick with a solid color for the curtains? I'm not that good at putting "patterns" together; and think solids are boring? I just wonder if I should stick with a solid color comforter instead. But I did like the pattern on this one.

BTW: We will be having a college student using this room for a short time. Otherwise, no plans to use it except as a guest room.

What color is the basement flooring?

If you find another print that echoes the blue(s) in the comforter, plus an accent or more, it will give you cues for the wall color and unite the space. Also, a blue and white space makes for a crisp monochromatic scheme. If you go this route, the walls might be painted in two shades of blue (perhaps the lighter in the comforter above and the darker below the chair rail). The trim could remain white as would the curtains or sheers teamed w/ a different scale pattern repeating the blues. White furniture would really pop against the blue walls too.

Blue and white room inspiration:
http://www.housebeautiful.com/...-white-rooms#slide-1

http://www.houzz.com/White-and-blue-bedroom

http://www.traditionalhome.com...white-rooms_ss1.html

http://pinterest.com/ecma/blue-and-white-bedrooms/

http://www.houzz.com/Blue-and-white-bedroom

Is the comforter two shades of blue with white? On my monitor the darker looks purple.

Froo - oooh, I'm liking some of those pictures in those links you posted. The painter comes tomorrow to prime all the walls and then he'll do the trim.
I LOVE the idea of 2 shades of blue. I guess I better figure it out fast. Any suggestions for the two colors? Should I pick a paint strip and just go 2 colors apart?

Susan - yes, it's 2 shades of blue. Kohls Reversible comforter:
http://www.kohls.com/kohlsStor...r+Set++FullQueen.jsp

Even the web link picture isn't really true to color. The darker blue is navy blue and the 2nd one is a dark slate blue with the white.

Window treatment:
Since the comforter is reversible to that small print that's flipped over the top, would you do white curtains?
And would you hang from the ceiling to the sill?
Or white blinds?
Or inside mount Roman Shade?

Keep the ideas flowing AND pics coming. I love the ideas (and pics) !!!

This message has been edited. Last edited by: nance425,

Love the color and pattern of the comforter you have chosen.

I would do a simple solar/roller shade so it goes to the sill only. How many windows in the room?

Here is a link to the solar shades too. I just discovered they have added the blackout shades and ordered some swatches for a window. A college student might appreciate blackout features if they are up late studying.

http://www.solar-screen-shades.com/cloth.htm

Hey there, BR: Thanks for your response.
We only have the 1 window in the room. (basement)

I'm assuming these are good for privacy?
Do you know if these types of shades are sold locally so I can see them?

If the walls have some color - I'd go white curtains - crisp white curtains. Or I'd pick that lighter shade of blue.

Very pretty comforter

To clarify...match the blue chips to the blues in the comforter in the lighting of the basement room. Do stick w/ white on trim and windows. BTW, did I miss what the flooring color is or will be?

Keep in mind that when complete in the monochromatic scheme, you can always opt to add pops of accents like a yellow perhaps to liven things up. But...I suspect that the blue/white scheme will be soothing and interesting as long as textures and a few scales of prints are present.

Hi, Froo

Yep, the trim will be white.
The floors will be carpeted - for cost and warmth (literally, we're in MN)

Having a hard time finding "a few scales of print." Can you give me an example that would go with the pattern in the comforter? Where would I use these? Pillows?

I found this site with blue fabric. Coordinating "prints" scares me.
http://www.buyfabrics.com/c-76...c-by-color-blue.aspx

Could you give me examples of what would go with the print in the comforter? Would it be for curtains? pillows? Comforter only came with shams.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: nance425,

Hi Nance,

I don't know if this exact shade is available locally. You might try the DD,lowes or JCP window department. They have books that show the fabrics and usually have a sample of the material.

If you check that link, there are different privacy (openess) levels of the fabric weave. I haven't received the samples yet but will post and let you know.

What look are you trying to achieve for the room?

Perhaps a coordinating stripe would work with your comforter. Here is a stripe that brings in a couple of other colors also.

http://www.onlinefabricstore.n...e-indigo-fabric-.htm

Not sure if this blue works with your color but it brings in red if you like.

http://www.onlinefabricstore.n...-federal-fabric-.htm

Sometimes instead of trying to match the color, it's easier to work in a different color. See how they used taupe as a background to the comforter. Perhaps something in that direction would be the ticket for your room.

hey, Beau's
I kinda like that fabric you linked.
I really don't have a specific look I'm going for. I'm letting the "inspiration" comforter dictate I guess. But I do like a blue and white room. I have some old stained pine furniture that needs to be pitched or stripped and then painted. Thought I'd paint them white. I've never done furniture before, so I really can't lose. If it doesn't turn out, we just look for something else.

Here's some fabrics I found. Do you think I'm on the right track if I don't go with the solar panels? Or would I do both?

http://www.hancockfabrics.com/...553097VVviewprod.htm

http://www.housefabric.com/Julian-Denim-P1827.aspx

http://www.housefabric.com/Fil...Water-P1836C679.aspx

http://www.housefabric.com/Leo-Tundra-P85631C679.aspx

http://www.housefabric.com/Per...obalt-P1292C679.aspx

http://www.housefabric.com/Qui...Lapis-P1842C680.aspx

http://www.housefabric.com/Xav...apis-P86028C680.aspx

http://www.housefabric.com/Myl...Delft-P1845C693.aspx

http://www.housefabric.com/Mos...Delft-P1851C693.aspx

http://www.housefabric.com/Nas...celain-P916C693.aspx

http://www.housefabric.com/Cou...Denim-P1831C694.aspx

http://www.housefabric.com/Mor...obalt-P3141C428.aspx

http://www.calicocorners.com/c...ics+by+color/blue.do

I am reluctant to steer you toward a specific print in curtains and/or pillows due to the misread of colors on PC monitors. I would suggest you shop locally carrying a sham (if the comforter came w/ one) to local linen stores or departments. Since there are circles/curvy lines in the pattern, perhaps a dot (repeats the dots inthe circles)or a stripe (navy and white awning stripes perhaps). The scale of the new pattern should vary from that in the comforter. You need not pick up both blues in the new print tho.

BTW, if you have a place like Calico Corners (or Country Curtains), they often mix prints on their showroom floors in color stories. They are great free resources in which to seek guidance.
Their knowledgeable staff could be of help also as long as you have a sample of your comforter for reference.

Froo- thanks so much for your comments. You make great points to shop locally. Unfortunately, there's not much here to pick from except Hancock and Joann's. Calico is about 1.5 hrs away. I guess that calls for a "road trip." (I LOVE Calico Corners!)

I see they might have some options based on what I see here. Coool! I was thinking "stripes" too... Could I go with the first pattern in a lighter blue at this link?
http://www.calicocorners.com/c...ics+by+color/blue.do

It's called Chico Blue Ocean. Oh, but I see it says "outdoor." Hmmmm.
I'm wondering if the Spotswood Stripe porcelain would be too dark???? (3rd row)
Would something like a Nassau Vine Toile Porcelain (4th row) work with blue walls? It has the blue and the white. Or is the pattern just wrong?
I'm just trying to get a feel for what would patterns and colors would compliment the comforter pattern.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: nance425,

Nance, again...I am reluctant to steer you toward an on-line pattern due to the off read of monitors. Did you know that calico corners offers samples and has a catalog for the asking? Seeing the samples under the lighting of your bedroom next to the comforter is your best chance of a color match or at least be in the same blue family. BTW, I like the first link's stripe, but again..is it close enough to your comforter's blues?

Here's a ticking stripe from Country Curtains:
http://www.countrycurtains.com...y=ourPicks&filterby=

Froo - O I didn't mean to put you on the spot. I was just wondering if one can go with a pattern that has one of the colors in the comforter and a lighter color that's not in the pattern. (I do like that stripe you posted!)

This message has been edited. Last edited by: nance425,

Oh...I was assuming you like the monochromatic scheme. YES, you can opt for a differing pattern that repeats one of the blues found in the comforter plus another accent AS LONG AS you scatter that accent around the room to tie it all together. This accent could be used via a sold fabric w/ perhaps some texture. For instance, as I mentioned previously, you could find a pattern that has a yellow in it and then use yellow in things like solid textural pillow, a throw, a lamp base or in a painting.

Froo - Thanks, I'm getting it now with all the patterns, and colors, and accents, and paint, oh my!

BTW: I was out looking for curtain fabric. And you are right. Fabric on the sites are not always how they appear in person. This is gonna be tough; even paint color strips are a little "off." (I know I can get it custom made, but then I'm stuck with it if it doesn't turn out.)

nance, another option would be to keep it very simple and repeat your comforter's pattern on the windows. If you purchase an extra sheet, panels could be made out of that.

You might consider double rods with sheers underneath your panels. If you'd like to mix in a solid blue - say two panels of navy plus two panels of the sheet material w/crisp, white sheers underneath - that would work, IMHO. To enhance your basement windows, you might go wider with the fabrics, as I suggested above.

You could then use accent fabrics (say an add'l pattern, a stripe and a few solids) in pillows and other fabrics, e.g. a throw, around the room. Accent colors can also be used in your accessories.

JMHO, good luck!

This message has been edited. Last edited by: blueday,

[quote]repeat your comforter's pattern on the windows. If you purchase an extra sheet, panels could be made out of that.

Blueday (how appropriately you are named for this post) The comforter only came with shams, no sheet.
How wide would you go with the panels?
Would you mount the rod all the way to the ceiling?
Because of that ledge, I probably will have to make them "sill length." Ledge is wide.

nance, if I had to go only sill length, personally, I wouldn't even do curtains. (I'd probably opt for some sort of shade.) Sill length would cut off the window, making the basement feel smaller, IMHO. If possible, I'd hang the double rod out far enough to avoid that problem.

In a basement, typically I prefer to expand the size of the window (or give that illusion, anyway) by extending the curtains well past the window. Don't know if you have a door on the other side of the window, i.e. a walkout basement. Using the window photo example above, to measure the width, I'd go out as far as possible on the right-hand side, to the extent it can be evened up on the left. Yes, I would definitely hang them as high as possible and skim the floor.

Depending on the style of curtain/drapery you select, it may be more gathered or flat. You may need as much as 2-3 times the width. The fabric width must be considered, too. Standard, purchased panels, often measure around 55x84.

WRT the sheet fabric, don't know if the comforter set was expensive, but I always want extra fabric. If you have the style/brand name, can you do an online search for it? If the comforter set was reasonably priced, I'd even consider purchasing an extra.

Thinking about the width again, if you picked up the grey blue color and had them made, you might purchase a less expensive solid and alternate 8-10" strips with the sheet fabric. Again, you'd have to think about the gathering - fabric width and seam allowance, too, BTW. The lighter grey blue could be a better option than navy to keep your basement lighter.

Hope some of that helps. Lots to consider. Incidentally, was actually thinking about the beauty of the sky and ocean when I selected my screen name. Afterwards, wondered if some thought I was having a bad day! Blue is my favorite color, although I haven't used it much recently for interiors, other than as an accent, occasionally.

All, JMHO.

Good Luck!

Well, I will have to take another look at how floor length curtains will look. That ledge is awfully wide to extend a rod out. I might just have to do a blind like you say.
I did find a couple of fabrics while I was out today. I think the stripes go better than the print. I also looked at paint.

Here's the stripe fabric with the comforter.

I'm planning on making a headboard. If I don't do curtains, would either fabric look good in the headboard? Or should I stick to a solid color?
The comforter is reversible to that blue and white small print. It is not a sheet. You can see it in the Kohls link I posted above. Not sure if I posted that. That would have been nice to have those sheets that coordinate.
Just posting this other fabric with the comforter to see if it would do as a headboard. Maybe too busy. ???

This message has been edited. Last edited by: nance425,

noticed your location...wondering if you're going to need a heavier fabric or at least lined for those cold winter days? how lucky you are to have such large basement windows!

This message has been edited. Last edited by: sjf,

nance, I love the stripe! That would be terrific vertically, on the window(s). Depending on your budget and the cost of the striped fabric, you still might consider having say 2/4 of the panels or half what you need made out of a cheaper solid - perhaps the light blue or grey, depending on your paint color.

If the window sill interferes with the floor to ceiling panels, I would seriously consider altering/narrowing the sill. Incidentally, if you need to go the shade route, custom shades can be ordered, made with your fabric of choice. (Don't know if you're aware of that.)

Hoping you selected upholstery fabrics, BTW. Meant to suggest that above, together with the need to line them.

Love the other fabric as an accent, too. Personally, I prefer to make headboards very neutral. For practical reasons, I'd go with navy, unless you need to lighten up the basement bedroom.

If you've been to the fabric store, depending on your budget, have you considered using one of the leather or vinyl/leather-look fabrics for the headboard? Around here, between sales and/or coupons, those fabrics can be fairly reasonable.

Let us know how it's going. Best of luck!

JMHO.

Blueday - yes, I intend to line with a thermal liner, even though we've got insulated windows. I usually make the treatments myself.

Wondering if I should make a roman shade in that stripe fabric. That ledge does really limit me. And DH does not intend to take it out as we just had all the work done. (I was not a fan when I saw it either.)

I like the idea of a navy headboard. I know I can find that fabric!!!

nance, I believe you'll be very happy with a navy headboard. It s/b easy to keep clean and coordinate well with your new bedding. In addition, if you change out the bedding at some point in the future, it can easily coordinate with many other color schemes.

I can understand the situation with the ledge. Had one easy option (idea) for it yesterday - wanted to check it out with someone. Will post back soon, if possible.

The roman shades should work well and be easy to make. If it were my room, I'd be sure to use the stripe at least a couple more places as an accent.

Please forward a photo of your completed room if/when possible. We love success stories. Good Luck!

All of the above, JMHO.

quote:

The roman shades should work well and be easy to make. If it were my room, I'd be sure to use the stripe at least a couple more places as an accent.

Please forward a photo of your completed room if/when possible. We love success stories. Good Luck!

Yup, I can do (make) roman shades. Would you do an inside or outside mount? I measured the window and it's about 53w x 47L. (I think) Odd, eh? Should I go a little higher on the wall to balance it out or will that look funny?
What else could I do what that stripe? Since it will be a guest room, perhaps a covering for a stool or something??? Pillows?
It will be awhile before I can post pics. I'm getting all my ducks in a row while waiting on trim work and then painting, etc. I can't wait til it's painted. I LOVE color! Here's a peek into the room...best I could do with the light coming thru the window. The walls have since been primed.

p.s. "Leather or vinyl/leather-look fabrics for the headboard?" Hmmm, never even though about that. Hmmmm, Hmmmm, Hmmmm! (road trip)

This message has been edited. Last edited by: nance425,

quote:

Originally posted by nance425:

Wondering if I should make a roman shade in that stripe fabric. That ledge does really limit me.

Nance, I agree with your idea to make a roman shade. Looks like you already have nice trim around the window so inside mount.

Long panels would seem choppy since it's a narrow window and the ledge trim, imho.I have a similar window situation so it will be fun to watch your progress in the room.

Nance, for your roman shades, I would definitely do an inside mount. Normally, in basements, it's best to emphasize height. So, anything choppy - like the short panels or an outside mount - tends to cut off the height, IMHO. Best to streamline the look. I would definitely run your stripes vertically, again, to emphasize height.

Great idea to use fabric to cover a stool. If it's a small stool, however, I'd probably select a solid (your navy, possibly) or a much smaller print. (Your other fabric has a white background and isn't that small so I wouldn't use it on a small item, either.) Larger prints look a little strange on smaller items, to me, anyway. I would definitely suggest large pillows.

One other suggestion - although I would pass on short panels or an outside mount b/c they'll draw the eye down, I believe a valance with the striped fabric would look great. I wouldn't do it in a flat, padded, tailored style, however. Instead, I would gather the striped fabric, again hanging vertically, across the rod.

Having the valance mounted at the top of the window will automatically draw the eye up to the top of the window. Thinking maybe 8-10" in height (for the fabric). If you're interested and need a photo or two of a gathered valance, let me know. You sew, so I'm sure you understand and could easily do it.

WRT the headboard, I love leather but it just isn't practical for certain things. I've used the vinyl/pleather fabric many times now and it's practical and affordable, too. Have always been able to pick it up on deep discount.

Hope the painting goes well. Will look forward to more photos.

All of the above, JMHO.

Best to you -

This message has been edited. Last edited by: blueday,

I saw some nice white vinyl today. It even had a small layer of foam on the back.

Whattaya think about a white vinyl headboard against the slate blue walls vs a navy one? The slate blue paint color will probably be the 2nd or 3rd from the bottom of the paint strip. (It's the lighter color from the comforter.)
I hope to paint some old pine furniture white similiar to the one in the picture below.
Found a picture with a blue comforter against a white headboard for an example of blue against white. The headboard I probably will make will just be a simple rectangle, nothing fancy.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: nance425,

this post is getting kinda long. Should I start another one if I get any new ideas?

Nance, white always looks crisp and clean when paired with blue, IMHO. If you wanted to, you could go a little nautical with your accessories but hopefully not kitschy.

When thinking about the neutral for your room, I'm wondering about the background of what appeared to be the reverse side of your comforter. Is it cream or a little off-white? I might think twice about doing a white headboard and painting tons of furniture white for that reason. (It's fine BTW if you've already painted your woodwork white - that's standard, IMHO.) You might want more contrast for the times you're using that reverse side.

Good idea to start a new thread by topic. Keeps it tidy and easier to work with.

All, JMHO.

Good Luck!

ETA: I posted about grey below. You might think about doing a grey headboard in a shade that works with the slate blue. That solves the problem of the comforter's reverse, repeats grey from the window treatment and flows to the hallway/other rooms.

WRT the valance mentioned above, even though my links don't work, I tried to find a photo to use as an example. I love window treatments and frequently design them so I couldn't even find it! Mine's simpler than what I saw. One other thought I had - if you wanted to only do a valance instead of your Roman shade, the one in my head (with the other rocks, haha) would work well with a simple shade with an inside mount. Let me know if you're interested and I'll try to describe it in more detail.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: blueday,