5 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Ordering Custom Drapes

Custom drapery brings unmatched beauty and functionality to a space — but only when it’s done right. Whether you’re a homeowner or an interior designer, small missteps during the planning or ordering process can lead to expensive revisions and disappointing results.

Choosing the wrong color combination is a common mistake - always test swatches in natural light.

In this guide, we’ll break down the most common mistakes when ordering custom drapes - and how to avoid them for a seamless, stunning outcome.

Mistakes When Ordering Custom Drapes - What You Should Watch For

Avoiding these five mistakes can save you time, money, and frustration — and ensure your drapery arrives exactly as you envisioned.

1 - Not Measuring Properly

Incorrect measurements are the most common and costly error. Measuring just the window size (not the surrounding space) can result in drapes that are too short, too narrow, or improperly mounted.

One common mistake is mounting drapery rods too low - hang higher to elongate the room.

Avoid it by:

• Measuring both width and height from the rod location, not just the window

• Accounting for stack back if the drapes need to open

• Considering ceiling height and floor clearance

2 - Choosing the Wrong Fabric Weight

Fabric isn’t just about color — it affects the drape, movement, and visual weight of your curtains. Heavy fabrics may feel too stiff for casual spaces, while sheers won’t provide enough coverage for privacy.

Low-quality or unlined fabrics can wrinkle and hang poorly - invest in quality materials.

Avoid it by:

• Asking about fabric drape, opacity, and lining options

• Matching the fabric weight to your room’s function and style

3 - Forgetting to Specify Lining

Lining impacts everything — from light control and insulation to how the fabric hangs. Without lining, your drapes may fade quickly or feel flimsy.

Incorrect width is another error - custom drapes should fully cover and frame the window.

Avoid it by:

• Choosing from privacy, blackout, interlining, or unlined options

• Asking how different linings affect fabric movement and fullness

4 - Overlooking Pleat Style and Header Type

The pleat or header you choose affects both the style and how the drapes hang. Selecting the wrong one for your room or rod type can lead to an awkward fit or inconsistent folds.

Hardware matters - skipping tiebacks, rods, or brackets can make even quality drapes look unfinished.

Avoid it by:

Learning about pinch pleat, ripplefold, grommet, rod pocket, and more

Asking your workroom what works best with your hardware and aesthetic

5 - Not Communicating Project Details Clearly

Whether it’s intended use, timeline, or fabric quirks — not sharing enough information can result in misalignment between your expectations and the final product.

Not testing fabric samples under natural and artificial light can lead to color surprises after install.

Avoid it by:

• Sharing inspiration photos, room dimensions, hardware placement, and timeline upfront

• Confirming all details in writing before production begins

How DDCD Helps You Avoid These Mistakes

At DDCD, we walk you through the custom drapery process from start to finish — so nothing gets missed.

Step-by-step measuring guides

• Fabric and lining consultations

• Pleat and hardware advice

• Clear, collaborative communication

• Handcrafted quality from our in-house workroom

Explore Our Custom Drapery Services

Request a Drapery Consultation

Final Thoughts

Ordering custom drapes doesn’t have to be overwhelming — it just needs the right process. By avoiding these common mistakes when ordering custom drapes, you’ll ensure a smoother experience, better results, and drapery that elevates every room.

Need help getting started? The DDCD team is here to guide you at every step.