Curtains

[erinaceus]

I've just moved into a new property and will need curtains/blinds throughout. It is a small property and there are five windows that need dressing:

1 small one in the bathroom - not sure how to install as the recess is tiled
2 in the bedroom - one small and one normal size - I would like to have blackout curtains in the bedroom
1 in the kitchen - I think a roller blind would be a good fit here
1 floor length in the living room to cover what is essentially french doors. Something quite heavy to keep the room cosy.

Is it ever worth getting someone to come and measure up and later on fit everything, Hilarys, John Lewis or similar? Or am I better off measuring the windows myself and choosing ready made?

How does one choose between the different tracks/poles/whatever? There seems to be a bewildering array of options.

How hard is it to hang curtains yourself? I am a DIY novice and seem to have made it to adult life having never bought and fitted curtains before. I'm not particularly handy but I am willing to learn and meticulous generally.

Any other curtain-related pointers also appreciated!

You can buy spring loaded “tension” curtain rods that won’t affect the window casing. That would probably be a good choice for the bathroom.

If you can screw a wooden batten into the window frame you can mount a blind on that. Roman blinds can use stick and sew velcro. Or use a spring loaded roller blind or pressure fit rail.

There is lots of info on the net, for example
www.norwichsunblinds.co.uk/ultimate-buyers-guide-blinds-curtains/