I would think removing the tab, and using rings as you suggest would give you the least width for the panel when pushed back. I just bought tab top curtains/drapes and the tab is 1 1/4" wide. Find the narrowest ring which I think would be around 1/4". For example, if there are 10 tabs to the panel, by removing them and using rings you would eliminate 10 inches, and the rings would take up 2 1/2". These amounts are approx. since the material pushed together might take up a little more room. You could also use grommets which would work on the same premise. Good luck. Jane

I've been eyeing these on West Elm lately, currently on sale for 49.00/pair. They're linen, 96" long. Also on sale Plus a bunch of others, including patterned or solid, e.g. burlap. I can't quite make out your colors (more beige, greige, or gray?)

No pics, but I did a mock up and the drapes definitely do not work. Not nearly enough space. The panels looked like scarves. Any pattern would be completely lost. The only possibility would be a billowy sheer, but I don't think so. Les' idea about the wood valance/cornice is really interesting. I love, love moldings and trim, so the possibility of adding more is tempting. I would have to move the prints. There is only about 2.5 ft from the window to the bottom of the crown. I am trying to not go completely overboard on trim work. We're a casual family and I want the house to feel somewhat casual as well. OK, probably no to the valance for this space. So tempting, but too dressy. I also really appreciate the comments of those who said to leave it as is. I do love the prints, table, even the chairs (except the fabric). I live the windows, the crown, and the neat bookcase. I love the floors and the light that pours through the old fashioned tape blinds. I don't always know to leave well enough alone. I have to remind myself I am lucky to have such a great spot to enjoy! The chairs are due an update for sure. That's a quick, easy, and inexpensive fix. Upholstering the oval is something I hadn't considered at all. That way, I could do at least two fabrics. One for the seat and maybe the PB dupioni silk for the oval. You guys have been fantastic! I am checking out all the links posted too.

Thank you for the ideas on the artwork! Leaning toward clipboards AND magnets! My DH is willing to help, but he doesn't want to re-do the work so I have to get it right the first time ;-) nosoccermom, thank you for the compliment :-) I guess it's not typical of the rooms here on DF, but our home is so small we need multi-use space. I'm so glad to have my exercise bike out of my bedroom and the exercise ball out of the living room!!! What else could I do to tie everything together? There is no room for any additional furniture. The closet is main computer central, with the NAS and most of DH's main computer stuff...and some toys. The Billy bookcases have board/card games, toys, arts & crafts supplies, and most of our books. We're looking at maybe new flooring in the next year or two, wood or bamboo, for the living room, entry, hallway, this room and possibly even our bedrooms. After boys, pets, and 13-year old low quality carpet, the time is approaching! As far as paint color for the desk my boys are getting, I keep thinking due to the small space, painting it blue to match the walls is the best choice. Or should I paint it something bright that stands out, to tie in more with the curtains? Maybe the best bet is to get a picture of the desk and do some mock-ups. I know for the tea-table, it's actually black with a detailed pond/fish picture on the top. I found it waaaay too distracting so I made the muslin fitted cover.