When choosing toile curtains for any room, you should take into account the design and fabric used in the room furnishings. Toile is usually a busy type of print, and seems to work better in rooms where the other furnishings are somewhat understated. Toile curtains are generally used in rooms with furnishings that are either solid in color or have prints that can be coordinated with the toile design.
Toile that is commonly used in home interiors is usually a two-toned cotton fabric, featuring a solid background covered with a color stamped design. The design often portrays pastoral or historic scenes, such as picnics, dancing, or play. Animals and children are often included in the print, either in groups or alone. The design usually repeats horizontally and vertically across the length and width of the fabric. The size of the design can vary greatly, ranging from about 6 inches (15 cm), all the way up to 18 inches (45 cm).
The print used in the fabric is probably one of the most important factors you will need to consider when purchasing toile curtains. The designs are meant to look sketched or hand drawn, very much like illustrations in antique books. These designs generally work better in rooms with a vintage or country cottage décor. Toile usually blends well with soft edges and lighting, but could seem out of place when mixed with very bold or modern interior design.
Though toile curtains are typically considered suitable for any room in the house, they seem to be more commonly used in living rooms and dining areas. Certain types of toile curtains, however, are designed specifically for kitchens. These designs often depict farmyard or garden scenes. You should make a careful examination of the print to be sure it will adapt to your room decor.
Toile curtains have a very specific look, so it may be necessary to purchase new hardware to complement the overall effect. If you currently use very modern rods and accessories, you may want to change them out, and replace them with pieces that have more of an Old World appearance. For instance, wide beveled wooden rods would be a good complement to toile curtains.
Toile is considered a very popular fabric for home interiors, and because of this popularity, it is usually easy to find. Most home interior retailers offer toile curtains in a wide variety of colors and sizes. In addition, there seems to be a wide range of pricing available, so if you take the time to shop around, you will probably be able to stay within your budget.