Curtains - any recommendations of where to buy?

[MatLeaveForever]

I'm moving house in a couple of weeks and the sellers are taking all of their curtains and blinds with them. They're even taking the curtain rails and poles (and the garden shed)!

The curtains they had were hideous 80's flowery things so although it will be a pain to replace the whole house worth of window coverings, at least I don't have to live with their choice.

So I don't know where to start - we don't really have much spare cash but I don't want to buy something that we'll have to replace again in a few years. Any recommendations for good curtain retailers? Any tips when buying?

Thanks!

[fresh]

If you don't want to replace curtains after a few years, sorry but you have to spend a bit on them. Roman blinds are cheaper as they use less fabric, what do you think about starting with those instead, then once you've lived in the house for a while you can decide which rooms absolutely must have curtains. I guess if previous owners had hideous taste then you'll probably want to redecorate anyway, so something cheap whilst you work your way round the house might be better. Wooden venetians from Ikea are also a cheaper option in the short term. If you do want curtains which last, get them made specially for the window by your local curtain maker rather than go to a store which sells readymades.

[minipie]

curtain exchange

These people sell second hand curtains - either used, or that people ordered and didn't like so barely used. If you are not too fussy about styles then this seems like a good way to get good quality for a lower price - worth a look? You might need to pay a bit extra for adjusting the size etc though of course.

Freecycle or charity shops might just have some that would do as a stop gap while you save up for your "forever curtains".

[MatLeaveForever]

Thanks for all of your suggestions. I think I may just prioritise and spend more money on the rooms at the front of the house - lounge and main bedroom, and maybe put some cheap things up in the guest room etc. The decor is quite neutral so we weren't going to redecorate fully to start with.

The curtain exchange link looks great, but they don't have any stores near me (Greater Manchester) but I'll keep an eye out for something similar. I'll have a look at the ikea website too (can't face going into a store!).

Now I just need to think about light fittings, new bed, dining set, artwork....