The Bead Curtain Rave
Once upon a time, the beaded curtain was trademark to hippies and Bohemian type décor; not only the beads themselves, but the idea of using a beaded curtains in place of doors. Curtains are meant to block light and protect privacy; beaded curtains do neither. So today, the trend has expanded: a bead curtain is now the design choice for wall hangings, doorways, window shades, tall lamp shades, curtains at parties and other events…the list only ends with your imagination.
Perhaps your imagination will expand when you realize that beaded curtains are not, actually, only crafted from beads. The “beaded curtain” can be, and is, made from shells, crystals, plastic figurines, and feathers. Beaded curtains made from beads include beads of all types; glass, wooden, bamboo, plastic. Entire portraits or landscapes can be painted onto a beaded curtain, as well. Take a little time to surf the web, only to get those creative juices flowing.
Acrylic bead curtains are cheap; about twenty dollars for a curtain of 23 strands, 36” broad and 72” long. Simple wooden bead curtains are a little more expensive; $25 to $35 for 31 strands. As soon as you explore painted beads and painted bamboo or shells, however, you’ll jump into prices upwards of fifty or even one hundred dollars. These curtains are considered real works of art, and can be very classy when placed appropriately.
Natural bamboo beaded curtains have struck a particular chord in home design, perhaps for their lightness of weight, easy stringing, and receptiveness to paint. Bamboo curtains usually have at least thirty, but often sixty or ninety strands, hung closely together. A painted bamboo curtain will have at least ninety strands, in order to create a nice picture. Even a plain bamboo curtain, however, gives a taste of real beauty in itself. Any decorative choice that includes something straight from the earth is refreshing.
Shell curtains offer a similar beauty, but with much more natural color. The sheen of real shells and the regal coral colors is almost irresistible. Shells are usually strung further apart, and the strands are hung further apart as well. These styles are clearly decorative and used less on windows or in doorways. Shells are fragile, and should be placed accordingly.
Beaded curtains are easy to buy online. Compare some prices, buy from trustworthy sources. Beware of buying beaded curtains used; they may be quite scratched, chipped, or otherwise beat up. Hang with style!
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