Gingham window treatments are light-weight, made of yarn-dyed fabric, and are usually woven in checks. It was also traditionally woven in stripes, a pattern not common today. Originally made from cotton yarns, it is now also available as mixed cotton-synthetic fabric and as oil-cloth. Gingham fabric is transparent and filters sunlight, an important feature for curtains in rooms where natural light is desired.
The pattern of colored checks on a white background gives a fresh look, making gingham a popular choice for curtains. Checks come in several sizes, commonly 1/16-inch, 1/8-inch, ¼-inch and 1-inch. Each size creates a different look; mixing sizes for curtains and accessories adds interest to décor.
The multitude of color combinations allows a selection of colors suitable for the palette of any room. Some patterns include themed prints, such as cherries or grapes for kitchen curtains or animal motifs for a nursery or child’s room.
Gingham is a favorite in country décor. Country kitchens will often feature a gingham curtain, with matching accessories such as tablecloths, napkins and pot holders. Ruffled gingham curtains used in informal rooms like dens continue the country theme throughout the house.
Ready-made country gingham curtains are available in an assortment of styles and sizes. Tailored curtains feature a rod-pocket with a shirred head above the rod and panels that touch the window sill or drop to the floor. Café curtains provide privacy without covering the entire window. Gingham Priscilla curtains feature charming ruffles and tie-backs, a favorite for a little girl’s room.
Window accessories in gingham include swags, valances and tie-backs. Lining provides another layer of light-filtering material, adding body and crispness without completely blocking light. Ready-made curtains and accessories are sold by specialty shops, department stores, discount merchandisers and on-line merchants.
Gingham is manufactured by several major mills. The different combinations of yarns, patterns and colors produce different looks and qualities of finished product. Some lines of ready-made curtains feature well-known mills as the manufacturers of their products.
For custom-made or do-it-yourself curtains, gingham is sold by the yard. Standard widths are 44- and 60 inches. Prices vary between stores and the products of different mills. Careful shopping can result in finding quality fabric at a reduced price through sales, discounted specials or wholesalers who sell to the public. Gingham fabric is sold by arts and crafts stores, on-line merchants and most fabric stores.
Mixed cotton-synthetic gingham fabrics are easy to launder and dry. Pure cotton gingham may shrink; it is important to check the manufacturer’s instructions for laundering. Cotton may wrinkle, requiring starching and ironing to maintain crispness.
