I'm about to make 117" interlined double pleat drapes with a finish Width of 56" and Length of 108". These will be hand sewn with the exception of the pleat sides. I don't want to overcharge, but I also don't want to undercharge for detailed custom work that will take a long time. There will be 2 separate panels

I'm closing on our new construction home next week and have been buying curtains in bulk. :) I need longer panels (most of my windows need 92+ inches), and I don't like most of the fabrics that are widely used nowadays (dupioni, taffeta, etc.) I don't like shiny curtains at all so that cuts about 90% of my choices. I have ordered several from Overstock. I need longer lengths (most rooms will do best with about 92") and some tailoring to length. They seemed to have the best selection of longer panels. Products range from cheap to pricey, it just depends on what you want. I ordered some of the signature velvet panels and even once I have them tailored, it will cost me less than it would've cost to buy enough comparable fabric during the fabric store's 40% off sale. JC Penney, and if they aren't on sale, just wait because they will be soon. If you have a Penney's outlet nearby, even better! AMAZING deals there, if they have anything good. BBB can be pricey, but a little hint - you can use their 20% coupons even after they're expired. And you can use one per item (in other words, if you buy 5 items, you can use 5 coupons... even in the same transaction. But you could not use 5 coupons and get something free). Sears actually has a pretty big selection. Linens n' Things - have done away with their retail stores, but they still have a web business and 20% off coupons. Try your local Craigslist, and/or ebay. Make your own? DD's curtains are made of flat sheets. They were the only thing I could find the perfect color in. And I don't really sew (I had to buy a sewing machine to make those curtains!), so the best part is that -- 2 of your edges are already finished. :)

I'm not sure if I am completely understand your dilemma so forgive me if what I write doesn't make sense, What is the reason for the short, lighter curtain? Is it a sheer for privacy? If you need privacy and your sheers are returnable you might consider replacing them with blinds. Blinds are considered a more modern look than sheers and would work better with your rug and furniture. If your sill is interfering with your longer panels you should be able to find rods that extend out farther than the rods you have now. If you have the room, I would also suggest that you lengthen your rod so when your long curtains are pulled back you see the window trim. You may want to add some extra panels for fullness. The designer trick to to hang your curtains high and wide. This blog has some good suggestions about curtains: http://www.younghouselove.com/2009/06/email-answer-its-curtains-for-you/

I tend to agree with your friends........if no privacy concerns, I'd go with as few curtains as I could possibly manage. But then I do not like curtains and haven't had any in any residence I lived in for at least 30 years!! Shades for privacy when necessary but curtains - no way!! If that was my place, I'd definitely skip any window covering on the east windows and rather than curtains of the south facing french doors, I'd opt for some sort of very light screen that would be virtually invisible when not in use but would block the glare as necessary. Something like these but without the decorative valence - keep it simple to go with the rustic character!!