In recent years, the cost of buying curtain sets has skyrocketed. Once a budget-friendly item costing just tens of dollars, today's custom-made curtains can easily run into thousands or even tens of thousands of yuan. This shift in pricing reflects a growing trend where soft furnishings and home decor are now considered essential investments, driving up overall costs. But what exactly makes a simple piece of fabric so expensive?
**A Curtain That Costs Thousands**
After weeks of researching, comparing prices, and visiting multiple stores, Mr. Tan, who recently moved into his second-hand home, decided to spend 15,000 yuan on new curtains for his wedding room. He never expected that a basic European-style design would come with such a high price tag. The original budget of 5,000 yuan was only a third of what he ended up paying.
Similarly, Ms. Yang from Xiaogang Bay in Guangzhou found herself confused when she realized that her living room curtain, which measured just 3.3 meters wide, came out to over 2,100 yuan. She had selected a fabric at a local shop, but upon receiving the final bill, she was shocked by the additional charges for items like Roman rods, hooks, pleats, and tracks—many of which she didn’t even understand.
**The Hidden Cost of Accessories**
When the reporter visited a curtain store in Haiyin Fabric City, they were surprised to find that the cost of accessories often made up nearly half of the total price. For a 3-meter wide curtain, the merchant calculated: fabric (1950 yuan), Roman rod (450 yuan), hanging rings (200 yuan), lining (150 yuan), lace (180 yuan), and pleats (160 yuan)—totaling 3,330 yuan. It became clear that the real expense wasn't just in the fabric itself, but in the accessories.
**Why Are Accessories So Expensive?**
Many consumers believe that the fabric is the main factor in the price, but in reality, it's the accessories that drive up the cost. According to a wholesale store in Zhongda Fabric Market, the same plastic rings sold for 5 yuan in shops could be purchased for as low as 20 yuan per bag in bulk. Similarly, Roman rods that cost 15 yuan per meter in wholesale could be priced at 45 yuan or more in retail. Some items, like Korean belts, saw a staggering 20-fold price increase.
**Selling Accessories, Not Just Fabrics**
Stores often insist that customers must purchase accessories along with fabrics. One store owner confirmed that selling only fabric would lead to losses. “We don’t make money on the fabric,†he said. “Everything comes from the accessories.†Salespeople tend to highlight the quality of the fabric while subtly pushing for extra purchases, leading to unexpected price hikes.
**Beyond Curtains: A Lifestyle Investment**
High-end brands like Rome, Royal, and Grand Vision emphasize that they're not just selling curtains—they're offering a lifestyle. These brands focus on professional design, personalized service, and long-term support. For example, some companies offer free pickup and washing of curtains, charging only a small fee for cleaning. This level of service adds value that many customers are willing to pay for.
**Expert Insight: Not All Accessories Are Necessary**
Industry insiders note that some accessories are optional. For instance, plumb bobs may not be necessary if the fabric itself is thick enough to hang properly. In many cases, simple ties or tie balls can serve the same purpose without the added cost. Additionally, lead weights used in some products can be harmful, making it wise to avoid them if possible.
**Final Thoughts**
While the curtain industry has evolved to include high-end designs and premium services, consumers should remain informed. Understanding the true cost of fabric versus accessories can help avoid unnecessary expenses. As one expert put it, "Two times the folds are enough. You don’t need to pay for extra fabric just to look good."
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