Automated curtain tracks-recommendations/experiences

[Whattodowithaminute]

We have a near 6m width window to cover in our master bedroom. I want to get as close to full blackout as possible. Looking at window covering options for this space-curtains expensive but could I sew a couple of sets together? Manually pulling them will make them really grubby (from experience) should we pull cord them or add to an automated track? Any experience of this?
If we use shutters we won’t be able to open them up fully as we would with curtains and will lose some view; also will need to open/close 18 different Louvre sections every day. Roller blinds-light seepage at the sides.
Not keen on roman blinds...
Ahhh!

An automated track will cost more than your curtains.
6m is some large track! I also have lots of curtains and I split mine into 4 curtains over one window.
You can use blackout lining. I have a pelmet board and plain pelmet for total blackout.

Sorry, forgot to say that you can have curtain draw rods, they will keep your curtains clean and are about £10 each.
Silentgliss are the best mechanised closing systems but they are ££££.
You can use two curtains and sew them together, you just don't need to. The pelmet is just shown for maximum light blocking.

Thanks 7to25 do you get light seepage between the curtains if not sewn together? Is there a more contemporary solution to the traditional pelmet? Will look into rods.

I get no light seepage.
If you want a contemporary look (I understand that!) then a track fixed to the ceiling or high above the window, works best.
A pole is the worst.
Set the hooks as low as possible on the heading for light exclusion.