When To Splurge, When To Save (How Do You Decide?)
When Matt and I moved into this house, and we were about 95% sure that this would be our last house (Matt is 100% sure, I’m about 90%), I made myself a promise that I wouldn’t be super cheap all the time when it came to making decorating and design decisions. Yes, I want to be wise with how I spend my money. Yes, I love the challenge of getting the “look for less” by DIYing anything and everything that I can. But at the same time, since I do save thousands and thousands of dollars by DIYing just about everything myself, I wanted to give myself the freedom to splurge on things here and there if and when I thought that splurge would really make a difference in the room…or just make me happy.
But I’ll admit, splurging is difficult for me. When I want to splurge on something, I can always think of a thousand other things that I COULD be spending that money on. And of course, splurging has different meanings for all of us. For some, a splurge might be a $15,000 La Cornue range for your kitchen remodel. For others, a splurge might be a $200 cashmere throw for your bedroom. But regardless of where we are on that spectrum, we still have to decide what things are worthy of a splurge, and which things aren’t. So how do you decide?
I started thinking about this yesterday when I was looking for curtain rods for my dining room draperies. Yes…curtain rods. I know, it’s not really a thing that you’d think about when considering a splurge…or at least I generally wouldn’t. But the fact is that I’m having such a hard time finding something that I actually like at a reasonable price.
Generally when I want curtain rods, I head to Bed, Bath & Beyond and purchase their wood curtain rods, rings, and brackets. Those have been my favorites for YEARS. But they’re just not the right choice for the direction I’m going in my dining room. Stained wood curtain rods just aren’t really the look I want with my black draperies. I think they come in black, but black curtains on a black wood curtain rod…that’s just too much.
I’ve never really been a fan of metal curtain rods, but I’ve really come to love antique brass.
Eclectic Dining Room by Boardman Photographers Adrienne DeRosa
Traditional Bedroom by New York Interior Designers & Decorators Chango & Co.
I think that antique brass curtain rods would look beautiful with black draperies! But finding reasonably priced antique brass curtain rods in the sizes that I need is not an easy task. I did find this Umbra brushed brass curtain rod from Bed, Bath & Beyond.
I think that the curtain rod itself is beautiful, and I really like the understated finials. But those brackets…ugh. I don’t like the way those look at all. I think they cheapen the look. And also the fact that the rings are clip ons and not made for drapery pins causes a problem, but I’m sure I can come up with a solution for that. And honestly, the brackets may not be a problem since I hang my draperies with a return that goes to the wall that will probably cover up most of the view of the bracket.
This option has two things going for it. First, the price. I can get everything I need for all three windows for about $220, including the rings! That’s a very reasonable (cheap, actually!) price for drapery hardware for three windows, especially when one window is 104 inches wide. And second, this is one of the only rods that I found that actually comes in a width larger than 120 inches. I like to hang my rods to allow for a stack back of about 12 inches in each side of the window (so that when open, the draperies don’t actually cover to much of the windows, but cover the wall so they don’t block out any light), which means that I need a curtain rod with a minimum width of 128 inches. Those are hard to find, but this one is available up to 180 inches.
But still…those brackets. No.
So I went in search of a higher quality antique brass curtain rod with nicer brackets, and I landed at Restoration Hardware. Of course, they have beautiful drapery hardware. And I think that the finish on their antique brass collection is gorgeous — much nicer than the Umbra hardware that looks a bit bright for my taste.
But talk about a splurge! For all of the hardware I would need for three windows, including the rods, brackets, and rings, the cost would be $866 with shipping. And that’s just for hardware! That doesn’t even include the actual cost of my draperies. I found linen for about $10/yard (at Gray Line Linen), and the lining will cost about $3.50/yard (I only buy when it’s 50% off at JoAnn), which puts my draperies at about $275. So my draperies with Restoration Hardware drapery hardware would come in at $1141. That seems really expensive to me.
Quite honestly, if this hardware was something that I really, really, REALLY loved, and I thought it would make or break my dining room design, I would pay that money. I’d grit my teeth while doing it, but I’d do it. But in reality, while I think it’s very pretty, I just don’t love it that much. Antique brass drapery hardware just isn’t something that gets me excited enough to want to splurge, even if the brackets are gorgeous.
So I went in search of another non-antique-brass and non-stained-wood option, and came across this amazingly beautiful option.
Yes, those are acrylic curtain rods with brass brackets. And they’re gorgeous. Now THAT is something I could get excited about! I called the company where Kristin got her acrylic rods, and the price has gone up since then. They’re now around $68 for an 8-foot 1.5-inch diameter cellcast acrylic rod (which they’ll cut and polish for you), plus shipping. That’s really a reasonable price per piece, but you have to buy the whole piece regardless of the actual length you need, and I would need four pieces for my windows. That’s $272, plus about $20 shipping. That doesn’t sound like a bad price at all, but of course, that doesn’t include the brackets. I love the brackets Kristin used, so those are the ones I would want. I need seven brackets at $17.20 each, so that adds another $120.40, not including shipping. So all of that, plus the cost of my draperies, would put my windows treatments for my dining room at just under $700.
Now I worked as an interior decorator for long enough to know that $700 for custom, fully lined, drapery workroom-quality draperies for an entire room (including two double-width panels for a 128-inch-wide window) is incredibly inexpensive. I had clients who spent thousands of dollars on window treatments for one room. But to my bargain-loving mind, $700 is a lot of money for window treatments, and that would certainly be a splurge.
So, I just don’t really know at this point what I want to do. Like I said, I generally have a hard time deciding when to splurge and when to go cheap. Sometimes splurges end up being a waste of money when they don’t have the impact you had hoped for. And sometimes going cheap comes back to haunt you when the item is poorly made and doesn’t hold up over time.
How do you decide when to splurge and when to keep it practical and inexpensive?
Addicted 2 Decorating is where I share my DIY and decorating journey as I remodel and decorate the 1948 fixer upper that my husband, Matt, and I bought in 2013. Matt has M.S. and is unable to do physical work, so I do the majority of the work on the house by myself. You can learn more about me here.
I honestly need to LOVE something before I’ll splurge – so follow your gut. In the end, you need to live with your choices
http://www.astoriedstyle.com/index.php/2014/05/diy-acrylic-rod-update/
You might want to look at this post and where she got her acrylic rods. Might be less expensive. There are other options if you google DIY acrylic curtain rod.
And I agree about splurging. I have a terrible time deciding when to do it. Once I’ve gotten a bargain I keep trying to replicate it and thinking how much I could save.
That’s actually the same place where Kristin got her acrylic curtain rods. They’ve gone up on their prices in the last couple of years.
The acrylic is unique and airy and a tad funky and would look great in your room. I don’t think $700 is a splurge for all those windows. And, given the quality of all of your craftsmanship in all of the other areas of the room, I think you should pay the $. The acrylic isn’t something you can DIY and would be a unique accent to your gorgeous room. I’d say it’s worthy of a splurge, so that you can keep up the overall quality level of your gorgeous rooms.
I totally agree. Kristi you have been working your magic in your beautiful dining room. I just don’t think this is considered a splurge either. I have seen things before that I thought was a splurge and bought something that I LIKED that was cheaper and I would be so mad at myself. I believe that if you love something enough to write a post about it when in your heart you want it. Do you really think you will find something that you love this much at a better price? I believe these rods will go so beautiful with your beautiful light fixture will look fabulous with your black curtains. I just believe you will end up kicking yourself if you don’t get them. They are so beautiful and will look so amazing in your fabulous dining room.
Although you’ll be able to cover the end brackets on that BB&B option, you’ll always see that middle one on your big window.
My concern about the acrylic would be scratching. Do you think sliding the rings across it everyday would make the finish cloudy after awhile? I think you’ve said before that you intend to actually use these curtains regularly.
I didn’t even think about that middle bracket always being exposed. That certainly won’t work!
Could you use a “cap” on the inexpensive antique brass rods to cover the bracket? I’m thinking around the lines of repurposing an old antique door handle possibly? Just a thought. I do love the Restoration Hardware option though! It’s $300 more than the acrylic one, not that huge a difference…but I do love them so!! I can’t wait to see what you decide to do!
Love….LOVE….LOVE the look of the acrylic but if you will be opening and closing on a daily basis will it withstand the “test of time”? Also do the curtain slides have an acrylic lining so as not to score the rod with all the back and forth?
I’m actually not sure if they would scratch. Definitely something I need to check into before buying.
I’m sure whatever you decide will be beautiful. My vote is for the gorgeous brass “big splurge” rods. My first thought about the clear rods is, they will get scratched up as you open and close the drapes.
This was my exact thought. It’s expensive, yes, but if she waited until these were on sale it may not be as expensive as she’s anticipating. Crate and Barrel/Pottery Barn carries beautiful hardware also.
The nicer rods are far more beautiful!
I wouldn’t splurge on the Restoration Hardware ones either personally. I like the acrylic ones, I actually used these on my living room windows. I didn’t use brass though. I think it depends if you want the curtains to appear as if they’re floating. I do like the ones from Bed, Bath and Beyond as well, if you want a more accessorized look.
Since money is tight I am careful when I splurge on an item for our home. I look at a couple of things before making the decision:
1. Do I need it?
2. How often will I use it?
3. Is there a cheaper alternative?
I go from there to make the final decision. I really like the brass-look rod and think your draperies will cover the wall plate. Good luck with your decision.
I tend to splurge more on my house than say something short lived like a vacation or fancy meal since what I put in my house will be around for a longer time. If I have the money available and really like something, I will splurge (unless the price is outrageous). I tend to hunt around a lot online to find the styles I’m looking for (or at least something close enough I can alter) at the best price. If you really like these, and spending the money won’t take away from funds for essentials like utilities and rent, I say go for it. Do what makes you happy since you’ll be looking at and enjoying this room for years to come. Besides, you can look at it as a treat for all your hard DIY work.
I’m generally a cheapskate when it comes to stuff like curtain rods (and curtains). I think it’s because I don’t feel like it should cost what it does (even though maybe it should in some cases). Like why is it that basic tab or grommet curtains from a big box store are always sold with the magic number of $20 per panel when they’re not even lined?
That said, you LOVE draperies and I get the impression that for you, draperies do make or break the room and if you spend all that time and money hand-making nice draperies, you’ll never be happy if they’re on the wrong rods. If you’re not planning to splurge on anything else in that room, maybe this should be your splurge item.
I do think these rods might be the perfect opportunity for a DIY solution. Maybe you could find a local metal fabricator who could make black iron brackets in whatever design you like (or buy just the brackets from Restoration Hardware) and then find some pipe or dowel at Home depot that you could make the rods from and fashion a finial or end-cap from turned wood pieces (or even square blocks). Then, break out the metallic spray paint to finish it all off. It could look nice and professionally done if you’re careful about your choices for materials.
I was just about to suggest buying a metal rod (or even wood) and using some nice metallic spray paint as well. Although I do love those acrylic ones. The suggestion about using an old door handle/knob as the center bracket on the big window sounds fun. Thinking along the lines of those peacock pulls, just a bit of unexpected whimsy.
That’s exactly what I was thinking about! Metal conduit, spray painted the color of your choice, with a clear varnish (to protect the paint). Of course, I’ll be the first to admit I’m cheap like that.
Yes pick ones you love and spray paint them the colour you love, protect it and if you need to touch up the paint every now and them thats not a big deal. If you get ones you dont love, they will glare at you every time you look around your beautiful living room
I found 2 diy curtain rods http://www.houseofhepworths.com/2011/10/11/how-to-make-a-cheap-awesome-professional-curtain-rod/ and https://younganddomestic.wordpress.com/2013/07/06/diy-curtain-rods-plumbing-parts-edition/?postpost=v2#content
Paint was my first thought, too! I had to scroll quite a way down the list to find someone else who suggested it. This one seems like a no-brainer to me. You get the rod and brackets you have always used and like and then just let the paint work it’s magic. And Kristi you are a wizard with paint! A nice inexpensive alternative and if you find you truly love the look, you can splurge later on the expensive option.
I am not a curtain person, so a splurge on this would never be a conundrum for me. Too much dog hair and dust in my house for curtains. 🙂 So, a splurge for me would have to be something that is permanent or structural. “Things” I can grow tired of or they need to be replaced. Four dogs and one man make that inevitable!!
She is so right you do LOVE draperies, you should splurge. Don’t paint anything get what you love.
I like these as an alternative to ugly brackets. http://www.designerdraperyhardware.com/vp/kirsch-drapery-hardware/wrought-iron-1-inch-brackets-5-1-2-inch-return-bracket-10300/
I could never bring myself to splurge on a curtain rod! Over the years I’ve used everything from copper pipe to spray painted pvc tubes for rods, and I’ve also DIY’ed cornices to cover the cover the tops of windows.
A splurge for me would be expensive curtains, throw pillows, the perfect comforter, or the perfect art work to tie the room together.
This is a really good topic. I look forward to this discussion!
Some things I’ve been thinking about lately when it comes to deciding how to spend our money:
1. I have to make sure that I’m not playing mind games with my younger, broke-er self. If I’m not careful, I will somehow feel disapproval from Cindy-15-years-ago who had to watch every single penny and got a little judgmental about those who did not have to. Now that I am one of those people, I find I pay the price for my judgment (as is usually the case). So that’s a first consideration: is it a splurge according to our current budget or according to the budget of 15 years ago (or even when I was growing up with very, very frugal parents)?
2. I will splurge in a heartbeat for furniture that doesn’t beat up my body. I’m about to spend a lot of money on an office chair that won’t hurt my back, and I refuse to feel bad about it.
3. The older I get, the more I understand that being surrounded by beauty really does make a difference. If I find that something is beautiful, I’m more willing to buy it (unless I also have to dust it, then no way). If it’s beautiful and functional (like those acrylic rods), I would do it.
What about a copper pipe curtain rod?
I considered that, but I don’t really like copper, and it clashes with my brass. So it would have to be painted, and anything painted would scratch with me opening and closing my draperies.
You might think about using an acid to tarnish the copper. I love the greenish color it turns, Haven’t researched how yet, but I’m thinking I might do that in my house! Just a thought for you! Can’t wait til you bring it all together!LOL! I really enjoy your blog!
I love the look of the RH brass. When I shop there I wait for a sale. I splurged on knobs and pulls for my kitchen and saved about 30% by waiting for a sale. Aren’t they having a President’s Day Sale or something?
Thank you for being real on your decorating You give us ideas that we can afford. I do wish I was as talnted as you are in your remodel.
I read a lot of blogs and as the years have gone more blogs have developed
It just seems like they are going to high end ways and of course they are getting a lot of it free or discounted. So again thank you. And your house is beautiful and how did you nieces room come out
I do love the acrylic rods Terri
Hi Kristi
Great question:)
I am frugal like you!
My critera would be:
Is it a WOW item?
Will it MAKE the room?
Does it have a lot of bang for my buck?
I tend to splurge on larger items. A chair, a wool rug, great fabric for curtains, a light fixture.
I don’t think I would spend a lot of money on a ‘supporting item’ in a room….like a rod. The curtains are going to be what people notice, in my opinion.
My viewpoint for me is spot on with Carol-put emphasis on the big stuff. I think is comes down to knowing yourself though and what’s important to you and it’s going to be different from one person to he next in most cases along with the reasons behind the decisions we make.
I’m afraid I can’t help you with the splurge/don’t splurge question, although I do think that you should choose what you think will remain classic for a long time. I like the brass everything, and the acrylic rod with the brass brackets, but the acrylic curtain rings just scream SHOWER CURTAIN to me, and if that’s the only option, it would narrow the choice for me. 🙂
This is another great resource for lucite/brass rods, cabinet pulls, etc. and it could just be the nice photography, but the quality looks a little higher than the Hunted Interior version:
https://www.etsy.com/shop/LuxHoldups
Look forward to seeing the end result!
Kristyn
I splurge after I have waited for a while and given the item a lot of thought in addition to possibly taking advantage of a sale. How much impact will the item have in the room? Is it a highly visible focal point that makes a wow statement or will it just blend in? Is there something out there I like just as much and is possibly less money? Not averse to spending. Just want to spend it the right way. Is this a fad I will grow tired of and resent that I spent this much on the item? Are the curtain rods that much of an important element that you want the money to be invested there? Or should the fabric for the drapes be the splurge? For you, the fabric will be a solid. If you wanted a print, a splurge might be justified with the size of your front window. I too am concerned that the acrylic rod will become dull and scratched with regular use. And it seems a bit minimalist for your overall decorating approach. But that’s just my opinion. Whatever you finally decide on, I know it will be lovely.
For me, curtain rods and finials MAKE the room. Today’s post makes me laugh! I cannot WAIT to show it to my mother…or to my daughter for that matter! 😉 They have teased me / groaned many times when I’ve been in search of the perfect window accessories! That said, it makes me happy every, single day to see my beautiful curtain rods and finials throughout our house. I LOVE them. They are the jewelry to the room! You seem to LOVE window treatments, too. I say, get exactly what you want! (p.s. I saw that some people said that you should diy some and spray paint some rods…I probably wouldn’t do that. I think the paint would scrape off when you open/close your curtains. That seems like it could be a big mess.) 🙂
My rule for splurging:
Which will I miss more, the money or not getting the item? If I will kick myself everyday for not pulling the trigger on the splurge, then I do it. If I will kick myself for spending that much money on an item that doesn’t really matter, then I don’t.
Drapery rods and lamp finials are the jewelry to a room.
I personally love the warmth and elegance of brass.
Spring for real drapery rods that draw for the big window. Find drapery rod finials that are so gorgeous they make your toes curl. If you get what you love, you will use them the rest of your life
Kristy, Take a look at Susan’s post on curtain rod rings. She found ring clips on Amazon that allow for hooks. http://betweennapsontheporch.net/ballard-designs-speaks-a-lesson-in-drapery-clip-rings/ Much nicer that the
regular look of the clips.
I was wondering if you could possibly gold leaf the drapery rod? Your cabinets turned out beautifully, so maybe that’s an option. You will figure it out, you always do.
My concern would be that the leaf would be too delicate, and would scratch off very easily with use. I do plan on opening and closing these draperies every day for privacy during the evenings and nights, so the rod will need to be able to handle that daily wear and tear.
Hi Kristi, what a coincidence – I just read about another room with acrylic curtain rods – I think they’re beautiful. Like another reader commented above, you really love your window treatments, so maybe the hardware splurge is something you should consider this time. I’ve always found that years after buying something expensive that I love, I’ve long since forgotten about the money spent but still enjoy looking at my beautiful painting/drapes/chair, etc.
Here’s the article I was reading, I think it links to different sources than the Hunted Interior:
http://www.drivenbydecor.com/2015/04/acrylic-lucite-curtain-drapery-rods-brass-hardware.html
Looking forward to your final decision/creation!
Those acrylic rods are amazing – they add a nice contemporary touch to the room, which I think really suits your style and keeps the room from being too traditional. To me, that is a splurge worth making, especially since the price is pretty middle of the road compared to the other two options. I know you’ll make the right decision for your room, and I can’t wait to see what you choose!
Hey Kristi! I feel like I could’ve written this post! I actually splurged in the lucite rods w/ the RH brass brackets that Grace at A Storied Style first put together. I did them in my old house and they made the room (I did blog about that!). Everyone who saw them loved them. We moved about two months ago and I brought the rods and brackets to my new house and had them recut for my new, smaller windows. I love love love them and don’t regret spending the money for a second!
For another room I will be splurging on the RH brass rods because they work better with the space (don’t have room for a large finial). I also considered the Umbra kit (via Amazon) but decided and investment in quality is SO worth it.
I was able to “save” money by pairing the rods with Ikea’s “Aina” 100% linen drapes. Awesome quality and they are long, so you can hem to length. Emily Henderson swears by them and I do too! I will be blogging them again as soon as my 3rd set of (back ordered) RH brackets come in!
Anyway, go for it! Either one. You will not be disappointed!!
I found your post. It looks amazing!! I’ll put the link here in case anyone else wants to see:
http://www.phoenixrestorationseattle.com/diy-lucite-brass-drapery-rods-no-sew-curtain-alterations/
Did you actually open and closer your curtains? My main concern is the same that others are expressing here — that acrylic curtain rods will scratch and dull if the curtains are opened and closed every day. Do you think that will be a problem?
I remember when we bought our house…a new construction. Because we were on a house hunting trip from two states away, we spent one whole day picking everything for the house, flooring, tile, lighting, etc. I found a dining room light fixture I wanted and it was about $200 more than the allowance. Our realtor tried to encourage me to pick out something less expensive and replace it later to keep our closing costs down. I thought about it for about 2 seconds and decided to go with the one I wanted. At closing because I had given up a Jenn-Aire range for a simple self cleaning electric range, we had a $700 credit that more than paid for that light fixture. Moral of the story: some things are worth paying the price…GET WHAT YOU WANT. In the long run, you will be much happier. (I gave up the Jenn-Aire because I had one in an apartment once and the oven was very small…could not get much in it.)
When I first saw the topic of this post, my mind immediately went to Kristin’s acrylic rods. I think they’d look beautiful in your house and would definitely be worth the splurge.
That being said… this website sells 1.5 inch rods in lengths of 4, 6 & 8 feet. That might save you a little money.
http://www.mscdirect.com/browse/tn/?searchterm=acrylic+rod&hdrsrh=true#navid=4288243050&searchterm=acrylic+rod&lh=n
And this site has the brackets for $13 each.
http://www.woodworkerexpress.com/Bar-Railing-Flush-Center-Post-Solid-Brass-2-7-16-CP-x-2-5-16-D-Fits-Railing-Diameter-1-1-2-Bright-Brass-Finish.html?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cse&utm_campaign=google_product_ads&source=googlebase&gclid=CKW-ip-18MoCFUg8gQod0a8KYw
Looks like those rods would actually be more expensive. Four 6-foot rods, with tax and shipping, came to $305. 🙁 Bummer.
I needed a custom size rod for my bay window – omg, not cheap! So my husband bought conduit, had the electricians bend it for him (he could have done it but they have a machine) and then we spray painted it. It is PERFECT and has held up well over the last four years. Maybe another option for you!
What if you make a two-part decision? Step one: Do an inexpensive fast DIY. Hang up curtains with this rod. Live with it for a few days. Evaluate if it’s right for you. If it’s right than stop and enjoy. Either way tell us how you did the DIY. Proceed with step two if you didn’t like the gold or copper look. Step two “A”: order lucite rods and gold brackets. Step two “B”: try a rod option not mentioned above that you are curious to see how it will look in you room. Your work is beautiful! I love reading your posts and seeing pictures of your projects. Thanks for doing what you do!
Did you see the Premier Complete line of curtain hardware at BB&B? The have a warm gold color which looks good and brackets you will like and drapery rods that go to 144″. Prices are good too. I’m at the store right now and took some pictures. Let me know if you want to see them.
Just looked it up on line. It’s very pretty! I’m definitely going to consider it.
I tend to be pretty frugal and will look and shop to find what I went without breaking the bank. When I saw your post, and that you didn’t want the wood rods, the first thought that popped into my head was “I have to find the link of the acrylic rods for her – they would be perfect in her space!”
My vote is to splurge in this instance. They would be the perfect touch of bling.
When I’m trying to decide whether to splurge or not, I first source something more affordable, and then sleep on it for a day or two. I find that by then, either I’ve begun to love the splurge even more, such that the more affordable option looks even worse to me, or the reverse happens, and the splurge just doesn’t cut it anymore by comparison.
I find that using this method, I never regret my splurge, and in fact enjoy it even more, sometimes years later!
When I just reject the splurge without that reflective period, Just on principle that it’s too much money, I often end up regretting my more moderate purchase and not being satisfied with the end result.
Another good test is whether you could buy the splurge second hand, thereby having your cake and eating it too!
In this case, I very much doubt you could find used lucite rods!
Why don’t you find cheap hardware you love abs have it electroplated? There was just a post about this not too long ago on ABeautifulMess. Could save some money!
Hi Kristi,
A Beautiful Mess just talked about how they had stuff plated (http://www.abeautifulmess.com/2016/02/the-howwhatwhy-on-metal-plating-.html). Maybe you could find an affordable set in a different metal and have them plated to the metal look you wanted?
Hi Kristi, it’s me again! Just today I saw that A Beautiful Mess posted this: http://www.abeautifulmess.com/2016/02/lucite-towel-bar-diy.html. Not sure if it’s the same place to buy, but it looks like they are having a president’s day sale! And I thought the holders were pretty.
Pleasantly surprised and relived that others find themselves on the fence about splurges too! We tend to think in terms of years. So if we have these for the life of our time in this house (our forever home) possibly 30 more years – it will only have cost us about $300 per yr, right? 😉 We are in phase I of installing nearly $10K (!!!!!!!YIKES!!) in Hunter Douglas Duette PowerView shades. We could easily install these ourselves BUT we wanted the warranty attached. We are working within our current budget so we are having them installed a few rooms at a time while we re-do the kitchen ourselves. Gotta save where you can! Plus, these bad boy shades will still be hangin when my kids cart me off to the old folks home 🙂 🙂 🙂
Two word comment: Spray paint
I tend to not splurge much on anything. Learned my lesson way back in the ’80’s, when I just HAD to have a Kirby vacuum cleaner!!!! It cleaned great for about a year, but I was constantly replacing the belt. Then when we decided to replace the carpet about 5 years later, (which was almost new when we bought the Kirby) there was a thick layer of dirt under the padding.We figured the Kirby was just vibrating all the dirt through the carpet and pad, and every time we shampooed it, it would permeate back to the top. No wonder we had to replace the carpet so soon! I still hear about that splurge! So now, I let hubby decide if it’s worth the money, just so I don’t take the heat! 😉 But I do rationalize with him about the purchase, because he’s the biggest tight wad I have ever seen! But we work well together in spite of it all, been married 40 years!
Having said that, I don’t think you would go wrong with the pricey rods from RH. I would shy away from the acrylic, because of the scratch factor and that acrylic yellows over time, especially in bright light.. But they are very lovely, if you could find a bargain and can replace them down the line.
You might do better to look into a polymershape supplier. We used to have one here called GE Polymershapes in Memphis, TN, who we used twice, once to build clear cabinets to set inside ice blocks to hold expensive flat screen TVs that needed to be protected from said ice. Another time they supplied me with colored rod chunks (two different colors and diameters) that I used to outline the shape and text on an 8 foot lite-bright inspired heart/lips logo used in a parade (we won first place in three cities :D). Anyone, that took a LOT of rod pieces (that they cut in chunks to my specifications), cost only $80 and I still have a ton of those chunks left over and in my way. You would probably have to use a compound to hand polish them to transparency, but I still have a big bottle of that left over too, and we’ve found it’s good for polishing things around the house, here and there.
*Anywho
You’re making me feel better about my own waffling when it comes to window treatments. I just can’t figure out the right combination of draperies, rods, finials, and/or blinds. I am debating some rods I saw at Target that curve around to hide the bracket behind the rod, no finials needed. Here is the link if you’re interested: http://www.target.com/p/umbra-curtain-rod-bronze/-/A-14151118#prodSlot=medium_1_3
I have a really hard time splurging on anything, but I did bite the bullet on our dining room chandelier. I went cheap on every other fixture (mostly recessed lights), but felt the dining room fixture was the one thing that would be most noticeable. I get compliments on it every time someone visits, and it makes me smile whenever I look at it.
(I think those rods that I linked to are too small scale, but thought you might like the concept.)
I really like this style of curtain rod. It’s very simple, and I like that it doesn’t have finials. I’m generally a huge fan of finials, but because I have limited space on the fireplace wall, finials won’t work. This style could work, though.
I tend to splurge on what I consider big ticket items that need good quality– sofa, dining table, that sort of thing. A side table would not likely qualify for a splurge as it isn’t as hard-working. I have found there is a certain amount of “you get what you pay for.” Personally, draperies/rods don’t make me as thrilled as some of the other readers. They are always somewhat expensive, but I don’t splurge because I don’t get excited about rods or brackets. But if you do, then you should get them. My only real advice is that I had to have extra-wide rods and panels for double French doors. After a year, we realized the rod was sagging. So, I went shopping for new brackets to better support the double rods. So, make sure any cheaper version doesn’t sag or cost you more in the long run.
You probably know this, but lots of people may not: Anytime you have the circular brackets that totally wrap around the rod (or even the ones that go 3/4 around) you have to make sure that your wall is long enough for you to be able to slide your rod in from the side, since you can’t just drop it on from the top! Hubby and I did not think of this when we bought circular brackets. We wound up sliding the rod into all three brackets first, then I had to stand there and hold the rod as my husband attached them to the wall (which seemed like hours.)
Good question and it’s definitely an individual thing. I always seem to gravitate towards the expensive stuff even before I know the price, always have. Of course it’s not in my budget to get all of the expensive stuff. 🙂 We are in the midst of a kitchen remodel and although we did the demo, electrical and painting, the rest is being contracted it out. Even with bargain shopping, I did some splurges and it still adds up. I decided it was ok, however. So many splurge on new vehicles thay depreciate so fast and yet will balk at investing in your home where you can get at least 75% at resale if you do it right. Bottom line, it’s what is important to you as we are all different, thank the Lord!
Personally, I think that I would splurge on fabric before any piece of hardware. Will anyone notice the hardware that much? However, if it is important to you and that you really want to splurge, I like the restoration hardware the most and I think it is beautiful and timeless. I don’t like the acrylic one, it looks kind of cheap and weirdly funky to me.
Thought maybe this would be helpful: http://www.astoriedstyle.com/index.php/2012/07/diy-tutorial-acrylic-drapery-rods/
I think you should try out spraying Ikeas curtain rods that sell for about 5 bucks apiece. If you sand, spray and then seal them, do you think they would hold up to opening/closing every day? I would definitely try the less expensive rod first before a big splurge. And if it doesn’t hold up, you would feel justified for the big expense, and the cheapo version can probably find another use .
First time commenting, and I didn’t read all the other comments to see if anyone suggested this already…do you read A Beautiful Mess blog? Earlier this week was a post on plating metals. Needs to be done by a professional but she had bought bathroom fixtures (faucets, shower head…) in an inexpensive chrome finish and had them plated in brass-turned out beautiful and the cost was reasonable and saved money. You’d have more options to find inexpensive rods and brackets and rings you love and then could have the finish changed. Could be worth looking into!
I think that you do such a good job at saving on all the woodwork that you should feel completely at ease at splurging on the hardware (as you did with your kitchen cabinets). Go for the Restoration Hardware if that’s what’s pulling at your heartstrings, and don’t look back.
Oops – that’s what happens when I read from my phone, on the fly. Missed the line about your not loving the Restoration Hardware. But I maintain my opinion that you’ve created a great look from blood, sweat and tears, for relatively little money. Splurge on the hardware, and buy what makes your heart sing.
So many comments. Cheaper: Did you see this ebay co. to order brackets from: http://www.ebay.com/itm/Urbanest-Ceiling-Bracket-for-1-or-7-8-Window-Curtain-Drapery-Rods-5-Colors-/271441890377?var=570300323580&hash=item3f33328c49:m:mw93MU8CfFxRlA2jTQ0DY-Q&rmvSB=true
And was this the place you used for acrylic rods? It’s cheaper also. https://www.onlinemetals.com/merchant.cfm?pid=21837&step=4&showunits=inches&id=1598&top_cat=0
Unfortunately those rods are extruded acrylic, which is the kind that has a more plastic appearance, scratches easily, and yellows over time. 🙁 I wish I could find what I need at those prices! That would be amazing! 🙂
I put those exact acrylic rods in my daughters room, she has white linen lined/interlined drapes that I snagged at the Restoration Hardware outlet for less than 100 dollars. I spent some time trying to talk myself out of them, but in the end, I closed my eyes and went for it. They are stunning and make the room. I got the holders and end caps at Commercial Finished Metals Company, great service and prices.
I’m thrifty too. $700+ for curtain rods and curtains is a LOT of money, especially for someone that likes to change things up a lot. I really like the antique brass rod from BB&B. Just buy a nicer bracket for the center since it will show and use the hardware that comes with it for the rest. No one will ever look at the hidden hardware! The acrylic will scratch, and personally, I like the antique brass look better and flow with the rest of your home.
Hi Kristi, forgive me but I have to laugh at this incredibly long thread of readers comments about curtain rods. Seriously? I just do Color and design but I gotta say there’s at least TEN ELEMENTS of a room that I would splurge on before window hardware! Priorities if you will, things I instruct my clients not to chintz on. These would include: a well made cushy velvet sofa, one stunning piece of art expensive or not, refinished wood flooring, a fabulous chandelier, simple but Full drapes; at least 2 widths per panel and btw if theyre lovely the hardware will barely be noticed anyway), a patterned or solid area rug that fits under EVERY piece of furniture in the room (i.e. Large), improving a rooms architecture such as crown mouldings, a stylish coffee table, a few table lamps for atmosphere and last but NOT LEAST pretty PILLOWS in fabrics which pull in all the rooms colors. These ten things I would prefer any day of the week to curtain rods!! Some may be pricey but I just bought an Alexa Hampton white ceramic lamp with gold/ brass base and finial detailing. GORGEOUS. It retails for $550 but I paid $50 at Home Goods. I’m with the readers who said just SPRAY PAINT a rod in antique gold or brass and call it a day. The lucite looks like a shower curtain rod and will likely look dated in no time. Sorry, but this is my opinion.
so I came across this web site on another blog where you can order acrylic rods in specific lengths or custom lengths and it seemed to be more affordable (I’m not sure of your specific dimensions!) thought I would share 🙂
https://www.onlinemetals.com/merchant.cfm?pid=21837&step=4&showunits=inches&id=1598&top_cat=0
Amen, I have found my people! I am so grateful for you and your blog. The honest sharing of your amazing DIY talent, thoughts, opinions, and struggles is so refreshing.
My husband and I bought our first home in November (a 1927 Dutch Colonial where everything needs updating). We knocked down walls and really opened up the first floor and I have had the absolute hardest time finding the right curtains and hardware for the new first floor space. We are doing a lot of work ourselves to save money but certain things I want to spend/splurge on – this for me is usually defined by something I want to last a long time; so not a trendy decorating item, but more of a functional piece that will endure even around future changes (curtain hardware fits that category for me). Or, sometimes needing to spend more equals having a limiting situation – such as an odd space with unique dimensions whereby options are limited to find a certain piece that “fits.”
I look forward to what you decide and appreciate you sharing the decision making process every step of the way.
Fondly,
Jen
A Beautiful Mess: Lucite Towel Bar DIY. http://google.com/newsstand/s/CBIw9P3S0yM
It’s a tutorial on a towel bar that looks just like the acrylic curtain rod with a link to where they ordered the acrylic from for an extremely reasonable price!
Btw, the drapery in the Bed Bath beyond photo are hung incorrectly. The Two outer rings on the rod should be on the outside of the bracket thereby covering the bracket so what’s all the fuss??
The “fuss” is that even if I hang the draperies correctly (with one ring outside the bracket, and a 4-inch return attached to an eye screw on the wall), which is how I always hang my draperies, the middle bracket on the 104-inch front window(s) will still be front and center with nothing to hide it.