A partial solution could be to attach flannel interlining between the drape and the lining. This will give the drape a fuller appearance. For a complete solution you could sew two panels together (or have someone do it for you) and then attach flannel interlining. I like the bamboo idea too, I think they look great! Depending on how much energy you want to invest, maybe combine both elements (blinds and interlined drapes).

Oh I am loving this thread! Maybe it's the pics, or how I had so MANY questions, but I'm learning so much here. alicialeo~You ROCK! The closet rod and your runner idea will save me so much $$ and grief. Thank you so very much. I need an 11 foot pole, and I want to hang the curtains high on the wall for drama. I think a 12 foot closet pole might just be the perfect solution. And really make up for the shipping charges I'm out for ordering the wrong rod and panels in the first place, in my impatience to finally get something up there, LOL. I am just now getting around to WT in the DR and maybe LR. I suppose since they're open to each other (separate rooms, but an open casing between them), that I should do a similar treatment in each room, or at least use the same fabric? I have no need for privacy in the LR, but actually do need it in the DR, so maybe one set can be functional panels and one can be decorative only. That sure would help matters, with those funky swing out casement style windows I have.

I've sewn quite a bit and, in fact, I teach sewing at the middle school and high school level. I've never attempted drapes before, but they seem less fussy than apparel. Guess I'll find out. So the fabric...I'm almost embarrassed to admit I shamelessly stole it from another post. I was looking up plaid curtains and came across a fairly recent GW post where someone suggested this fabric. I immediately liked it and started considering it for curtains. When I realized how inexpensive it was ($2.24 a yard!) I just went ahead and bought all they had in stock, something like 28 yards. I hope I like it! It should fit with the English country, creams and off white look I'm going for. It's 100% cotton, described as a durable drapery fabric. Still deciding on how many panels and what sort of heading.

What's the clearance around the door? Typically your curtain width should be twice the size of the width you need to cover. If the panels are too narrow then the curtains can look skimpy and unfinished. If you have clearance and hang your rod wide then the curtains can be pushed away from the opening.