Curtain Tiebacks and Holders

What Are Curtain Tiebacks and Holdbacks

Tiebacks (also known as pullbacks) and holdbacks are curtain accessories that collect and hold curtains open. These are used in order to enhance the decorative and/or functional value of the heavy drapes. Keeping them open helps to control both the light transmission and the privacy of the residents. 

Curtain holdbacks and tiebacks initially serve the same function, yet they differ in style, material, as well as installation process. 

Curtain Holdbacks vs. Tiebacks

A curtain holdback is a hook-like, u-shaped piece of hardware. It attaches to a wall next to a window frame to hold an open curtain pulled away. Curtain holdbacks are sturdy and rigid, commonly made of materials like iron, steel, or wood. They can be contrasting or matched with a curtain rod and brackets. Holdbacks are preferred as a functional solution due to their fixed position, which makes opening and closing curtains easy.

Curtain tiebacks work in a different way. They are soft, typically made of fabrics, cords or ropes, designed to wrap around a curtain. They stand alone or attach to a hook on the wall. Tiebacks offer more flexibility of use than holdbacks, as they can also help gather a curtain in the middle of a window. Tiebacks are ideal for decorative use and creative solutions, and for curtains that remain open most of the time. 

Curtain Tieback & Holdback Types

Cord Tiebacks: These models usually come with tassels to convey a classy, traditional look when used with heavy drapes. A plethora of tassel styles, designs and sizes available on the market makes it easy to complement any kind of formal decor.

Fabric Tiebacks: This type is commonly combined with stylized tieback hooks that secure it to the wall. Enriched with beaded trim, it conveys a traditional, very formal touch to the interior. 

Ribbon Tiebacks: Ribbons come in a wide variety of colours, patterns and styles to match any room design, from kids rooms to cheerful kitchens. 

Modern magnetic holdbacks: These convenient pieces of hardware are stylish as much as functional. Magnetic operation is ideal for frequent opening and closing, making it easy to handle thermal or blackout curtains. 

Things to Consider When Buying Curtain Holdbacks & Tiebacks

Curtains made of rich, heavy materials pair well with large, thick curtain tiebacks. For example, iron holdbacks, installed on the wall, can host statement silk or velvet curtain attached to a rail or a track. At the same time, a lightweight, sheer curtain might look better with a fabric or rope tieback.

The tiebacks & holdbacks should match the room décor and style. Metal, alone or combined with fabrics, will blend nicely in the interior full of metal accents. Some contemporary tieback designs boast creative material solutions, such as beads, pearls, glass or metal accents. Together with a transparent, delicate curtain fabric, these can make a chic focal point in a modern interior. Still, a traditional setting will benefit more from the classic charm of fabric tiebacks. 

Tiebacks can be placed on either side of the window. Models in bright, contrasting colours will stand out against the wall, especially when matched with rod finials. A tieback similar to the wall colour will blend easily to provide a more discreet look. The same applies to curtains. Choosing tiebacks from the same colour palette as the wall will make the setting appear polished and coordinated, while a contrasting, eye-catching holdback can convey a rather dramatic flair.

If you need assistance to select the best curtain holdbacks and tiebacks for your windows, ArchiPro provides a connection to the various professionals, ready to assist with all requirements and questions. Simply click "Contact supplier" on the product's page, or visit the supplier's website directly from the product's page.