Questions & Answers
Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions
What is the difference between a drape and a curtain?
1 Answer

The difference between a drape and a curtain is that drapes are long enough to reach the floor, typically, and are lined with material that is specifically intended to keep out light. Curtains might be short — covering half a window in the kitchen, for example — and while the curtains in your bedroom might keep out some sunlight, they won’t keep out all of it. Drapes are usually made with heavier fabrics such as velvet or a similar material, while curtains usually feature lightweight and sometimes sheer fabrics. Find a collection of antique and vintage drapes and curtains on 1stDibs today.
1stDibs ExpertOctober 12, 2021
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Shop for Drapes And Curtains on 1stDibs
Pair of Custom Linen Drapes, Curtains and Valances, Lined, Tassels
By Scalamandre
Located in Stamford, CT
Pair of Custom Linen Drapes, Curtains and Valances, Lined, Tassels,
A fine quality custom pair of Drapes with Valances.
Category
2010s Curtains and Valances
Materials
Cotton, Linen
10’ Silk Velvet Drapes/Curtains with Greek Key and Backing '2 Pair Available'
Located in Richmond, VA
Fabulous 10’ silk velvet drapery panels with Greek key border labeled by designer William Eubanks.
These could easily be reworked to fit a different size but are ready to go as t...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Curtains and Valances
Materials
Silk, Velvet
Pair of American Mission Style Green and Gold Floral Silk Drapes
Located in Queens, NY
PAIR America Mission style green & gold silk drapes with floral pattern & fringed border (PRICED AS PAIR).
Antique Condition, Might Have Rips
Category
Antique Late 19th Century American Mission Curtains and Valances
Materials
Gold
English Victorian Style Maroon Velvet Corded Border Drape
Located in Queens, NY
English Victorian style single maroon velvet drape with corded border on 2 sides.
Category
Antique 19th Century British Victorian Curtains and Valances
Materials
Cord
Italian Renaissance Style Brown Velvet Metallic Thread Drape
Located in Queens, NY
Italian Renaissance style single brown velvet drape with wide metallic thread & velvet border.
Antique condition, some wear.
Category
20th Century Italian Renaissance Curtains and Valances
Materials
Metal
Italian Renaissance Brown Velvet Drapes with Metallic Embroidery
Located in Queens, NY
PAIR of Italian Renaissance style brown velvet drapes embroidered with heavy metallic thread (PRICED AS PAIR).
Category
20th Century Italian Renaissance Curtains and Valances
Materials
Metal


