A nice set of drapes or curtains can take a room from boring to beautiful in the blink of an eye. The most beautiful set of drapes won't do a room any good if they're not correctly hung. Before you install your window treatments, make sure you know how to hang them the right way.
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There are many different ways to hang curtains and drapes that can affect the overall look of your space or the mounting method. For example, hanging curtains taller and wider than your windows will make the room and windows feel larger. You may also need to hang curtains over windows with existing blinds or use a method that doesn't require drilling into the walls for apartment living.
Also, consider how long the curtains or drapes will hang below the window. Floor-length drapes give the room a formal look, while sill-level curtains might be more appropriate for kitchens or bedrooms.
A tricky part ofhanging drapes or curtainsis knowing where to put the rod. It differs based on a few factors, including the style of the window, the type of window covering, and the height of the ceiling.
Consider all these factors as you plan and install your curtains or drapes.
Calculating Height and Width to Hang Curtains
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Height
Use these tips to make sure you place your rods at the right height:
- The typical size for standard drapes on either side of a windowis halfway between the top of the window casing and the ceiling.This applies if there are more than 12 inches between the window trim and ceiling.
- Leave approximately 4 to 6 inches above the window trim for cathedral ceilings as a guideline.
- No matter the ceiling height, the minimum distance from the top of the window casing to the curtain rod is 2 inches.
- Mount the drapery rods close to the ceiling to create the illusion of height. This is particularly important to do if the room has low ceilings.
- Use these same rules when the windows are arched.
Width
Use these tricks to make the drapes a standard width and to create the illusion of wider windows:
- The standard distance from the window casing to the end of the curtain rod (excluding finials) on each side of the window should be 4 to 10 inches.
- Generally, drapes will be open during the day, so ensure the curtain rodextends at least four inches on each side of the window's inside frame.
- Extend the rod up to 10 inches beyond the window's frame to create the illusion of a wider window.
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Curtain Sizes
Consider the right size, length, and width of curtains for your space. There are many store-bought options, or your room may require custom-made curtains for specific heights, room, or window specifications.
- Generally, the ideal curtain length is long enough to kiss the floor.
- Consider drapes that puddle a couple of inches on the floor for a traditional, formal look.
- Do not allow your curtains to hang above the floor. When they stop a couple of inches above the floor, it can make the ceilings look lower.
- For curtains to look full, the panels should have a combined width of at least double the window width. If you have two panels, each one should equal the window's width.
- Some fabrics hang differently than others; light fabrics may require more fullness, while heavy materials may need a little less.
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Curtain Hardware
Curtain hardware is often the last step to pull the room together and allows you to complement the style of the room.
- Curtain rods and finials should complement the drapery fabric. Consider putting heavier fabrics such as velvets and chenilles on large, somewhat decorative rods, while light cotton and sheer fabric might work best on lightweight, daintier rods.
- The hardware should also complement the room. If using Lucite or oil-rubbed bronze elsewhere in the room, tie it in with your hardware section.
- Consider the finials at each end of the curtain rod to match the room's aesthetic.
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What You'll Need
Equipment / Tools
- Measuring tape
- Level
- Stud-finder (optional)
- Screwdriver or drill
Materials
- Curtains or drapes
- Rod
- Screws
- Brackets
- Anchors or toggle bolts (optional)
- Drapery hooks (optional)
- Tieback cord and hardware (optional)
Instructions
How to Hang Curtains
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Take Measurements
Take precise measurements of your windows' width, height, and position between the ceiling and floor. These measurements will be essential to selecting suitable rods, brackets, and curtains or drapes.
If the windows have blinds over which the drapes will hang, determine if and how far the blinds stand out from the window casings. This will dictate the necessary offset of the brackets and rods from the wall.
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Determine Size and Style
Style factors to consider:
- How formal is your style?
- What is the aesthetic of your room?
- Do you want the fabric to be sheer to let in more light? Or do you prefer light-blocking or blackout curtains?
- Are you getting intentionally longer curtains to give the room more dimension?
If curtains are custom-made, factor in the time it takes to order and get them. It can take several weeks.
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Choose Rods and Hardware
Base your selection of hardware on your window measurements and preferred style. Hardware can range from simple thin rods resting on nearly invisible brackets screwed to the window frame to elaborate ornament rods and brackets with decorative finials adorning the ends of the rods.
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Install Brackets
Installing your window treatments begins with precise measurements and attachment of the rod brackets to the window frame or wall.
- Drill pilot holes or install wall anchors to support heavier curtains.
- Attach brackets directly to wall studs (use stud finder tool) or toggle bolts to secure rods solidly to the wall in the spaces between wall studs.
- Ensure the brackets are installed so they are leveled from side to side and at the proper height above the floor.
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Mount Curtains on Rods
Insert the rod through the curtain header pocket, eyelet, or alternately, some styles may require you to attach drapery hooks through pleats at the top of the curtains.
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Hang Curtains
The curtains can be lifted into place with them attached to the rod or hanger hooks. This usually requires the assistance of a helper and probably one or two stepladders.
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Install Tiebacks (Optional)
With formal-style curtains or your design aesthetic, you may want to install tieback cords and hardware.
Tip
Consider using no-screw adhesive curtain brackets to avoid making holes in the walls or ceiling (usually for rental properties). Available in many sizes, these adhesive, detachable anchors can attach directly to the walls or window frames to support almost any type of curtain—even heavy formal window treatments. They are easy to remove.
FAQ
How far should a curtain rod extend past the window?
Get a rod 8 to 12 inches longer than the window's width; account for at least 4 to 6 inches on either side. Also, plan to mount the curtain about 4 to 6 inches above the window frame.
Should curtains hang inside the window frame?
Except for ornate window frames you want to feature in the room, it's best to hang the curtain outside the window frame. Overshooting the window allows the fabric to hang without being cramped within a boxed-in frame.
Do curtain rods need middle support?
The number of support brackets you need depends on the draperies' weight and the rod's width. In general, supports should be placed every 30 to 36 inches. But if the brackets and rod are sturdy, well anchored, and the fabric is light enough, you might not need a center support for 5- to 8-foot curtains. Rule of thumb: Any expanse longer than 8 feet requires middle support.
As someone deeply involved in interior design and home décor, particularly in the realm of window treatments, I've not only gathered substantial knowledge from professional experiences but also from an avid personal interest in the subject. Understanding the nuances of hanging curtains and drapes involves a mix of aesthetics, spatial awareness, and practical considerations. Here's a breakdown of the concepts touched upon in the article:
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Hanging Techniques: The manner in which curtains are hung significantly impacts a room's appearance. Proper hanging methods include considerations for room size, window dimensions, and existing window coverings. This involves hanging curtains taller and wider than the windows for an expansive feel or using alternative methods for apartment living.
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Height and Width Calculation: Precision in placing rods at the right height and distance from the window plays a crucial role. Guidelines suggest distances from the top of the window casing to the rod, depending on ceiling height. Similarly, the extension of the rod on each side affects the perceived width of the window.
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Curtain Sizes: Understanding the ideal length, width, and fullness of curtains tailored to the room's specifics. Lengths that kiss the floor or puddle slightly for a formal look, and ensuring the combined width of panels is double the window's width for a fuller appearance.
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Curtain Hardware: Complementing the drapery fabric with appropriate curtain rods, finials, and hardware to enhance the room's style. Matching the hardware to the room's aesthetic is crucial for a cohesive look.
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Required Tools and Materials: A comprehensive list of tools required for hanging curtains, ranging from measuring tape and level to screws, brackets, and anchors.
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Step-by-Step Installation Process: A detailed guide on how to hang curtains, starting from taking measurements, selecting suitable rods and hardware, installing brackets securely, mounting curtains on rods, and optional steps like installing tiebacks.
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FAQs: Addressing common queries such as the extension of curtain rods past the window, hanging curtains inside or outside the window frame, and the necessity of middle support for longer curtains.
Mastering the art of hanging curtains involves a blend of technical precision and creative flair. Each step, from measurements to the final installation, contributes to the overall aesthetics and functionality of the room.
