How To Layer Curtains And Sheers [6 Suggestions] (2024)

We've all flipped through the pages of decorating magazines or perused the internet, looking for decorating ideas. Sometimes, a feature will catch your eye, but you don't know quite how to get the same look in your own home. Layering curtains and sheers is a pretty way to decorate your windows, but how exactly do you go about setting them up? We have done some investigating and are here to help!

There are a few different ways to go about layering solid curtains and sheers. You can layer them as:

  • Solid over sheer
  • Sheer over solid
  • Alternating
  • Draped as a window scarf
  • Sheer over sheer
  • Readymade overlay

You can also choose from different rod options to accomplish these looks. These include:

  • Double rod
  • Multiple rods
  • Single Rod

All of these are valid layering techniques, and they all end in a beautiful window treatment. Continue reading to find out how to accomplish each method and to see examples of them all.

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Layering Techniques

Solid Over Sheer

Layering solid curtains over sheers is a popular technique. This technique leaves room for variation. Solid curtains can remain closed, hiding the sheers and blocking out the light. The curtains can be drawn back, allowing sunlight to filter through the sheers while retaining privacy. Or, both layers can be pulled aside to reveal the outside world. You can use either a solid sheer curtain or two sheer panels, depending on whether or not you will be pulling them aside.

Sheer Over Solid

Putting sheer curtains over solid ones is a great way to soften a window. The sheers can be left covering the entire curtain or pulled back with an elegant draping effect.

Alternating

Another effective way to utilize both sheer and solid curtains is to alternate them. Use a combination of solid and sheer to give quite a stunning look. You can also use varying degrees of transparency to provide extra texture to your curtains.

Draped as a window scarf

Mix it up a little and drape one of your panels across the top of the window. Hang your solid and drape the sheer or hang the sheer and drape the solid. Either way will look amazing!

Sheer Over Sheer

Skip the solid curtains altogether and go sheer all the way. This option produces such an elegant look. You can layer different colored sheers to create depth and style.

On the other hand, try hanging a sheer panel in the back and crossing two sheer panels across the front. The only drawback to utilizing sheer over sheer is that light will not be blocked out, so it's probably not the best choice for a bedroom.

Readymade Overlay

Maybe you don't want to hassle with multiple curtain rods and layers. Did you know that layered curtains can be bought readymade? Sheer curtains are sewn into solid curtains to give a layered look without the trouble.

How To Layer Curtains And Sheers [6 Suggestions] (2)How To Layer Curtains And Sheers [6 Suggestions] (3)

Click here for these blackout curtains with a sheer overlay on Amazon.

Rod Options

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Different kinds of rods can be useful in your curtain layering project. They each produce a slightly different look, so choose the one that is right for you.

Double Rod

A double rod features a single bracket with two separate curtain rods. This is probably the easiest method of achieving layered curtains. One curtain rod projects out from the wall further than the other to give an effortless layered look with some depth.

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Click here to find this double curtain rod on Amazon.

Multiple Rods

You can use two or more separate rods to layer your curtains. This choice will allow you to hang one layer higher than the other if desired or increase the depth between layers. Utilizing multiple rods is particularly helpful if you want to use three of four different layers over your window. Consider using a decorative curtain rod for the front layer and sash rods or tension rods for subsequent layers.

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Click here for this lovely decorative rod on Amazon.

How To Layer Curtains And Sheers [6 Suggestions] (9)How To Layer Curtains And Sheers [6 Suggestions] (10)

Click here to find this sash rod on Amazon.

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Click here for this tension rod on Amazon.

Single Rod

A single rod can be used to layer curtains with the help of curtain rings with clips. You can alternate, clipping one ring to the solid curtain and the next ring to a sheer panel behind it. Alternatively, you can align the solid and sheer panels and clip them together. You can also use a single rod to alternate solid and sheer pocket curtains. This method has its drawbacks, though it can be challenging to line up the curtains correctly, and there is no depth between the layers. You will also be unable to pull aside a single layer if you wanted to fully.

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Click here to find these curtain rings with clips on Amazon.

Should Sheers And Curtains Be The Same Length?

Good question, and the answer is yes and no. Sheers should be the general length as the curtain panels. However, if they are being layered behind solid curtains, sheers should hang approximately one inch shorter than their solid counterparts.

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Do You Need Sheers With Curtains?

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No, sheers are not necessary. Both curtains and sheers can be used as standalone window treatments.

What Is The Purpose of Sheer Curtains?

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The benefit of having curtains is obvious. They serve a practical purpose as well as decorative. Solid curtains, especially blackout curtains, save energy by reducing the effect that the outside temperature has on a room. They also block out light, which is particularly handy if you have the opportunity to sleep in.

However, sometimes you may want to let some light into a room without displaying your home to the outside world. Sheer curtains serve this purpose. They allow sunlight to brighten your home while maintaining privacy. They are also very aesthetically pleasing, adding a softer tone to a room than solid curtains.

Maybe you'd like a little more privacy when it comes to curtains. This article may help decide which ones to get: 4 Types of Curtains That Are Best For Privacy.

How Do You Layer Curtains And Blinds?

Blinds are beneficial window treatments. They save energy and block light. Sometimes, however, you may want to layer curtains over your blinds. This technique can dress up simple blinds, camouflage unsightly ones, or add ambiance to your room.

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To put curtains over blinds, it's as easy as installing a curtain rod over your window and hang your curtains. If you're layering curtains and blinds, why stop at two layers? Adding another layer of sheer panels can make a statement. Use any of the ideas that we described earlier in this post to add layers.

When choosing curtains to hang over blinds, solid colors are the safest choice. Blinds already have so much texture going on that a pattern could cause visual confusion. However, if you have a solid shade instead of blinds, that would pair beautifully with patterned curtains.

So now, armed with these curtain layering strategies, you should be able to design your window masterpieces like a pro!

Before you go, be sure to check out these other articles. You may find them helpful!

What Curtains Look Best On Bay Windows?

Can Curtains Make a Room Look Smaller?

How To Remove Mold From Curtains [5 Steps]

How To Layer Curtains And Sheers [6 Suggestions] (2024)

FAQs

How to layer curtains and sheers? ›

Sheers and drapes: The most common and practical method for layering curtains. Use double brackets and double curtain rods to layer a sheer curtain under an opaque or blackout drape or curtain. This technique allows sunlight to shine through while still maintaining privacy.

Can you put sheer curtains under curtains? ›

Install the blackout curtains at the front and keep the sheer curtains behind them. The sheer curtains will be visible to you only when you open the blackout curtains. When you close the blackout curtains, the sheer curtains will become the centerpiece of the window treatment.

Do sheers and curtains need to be the same length? ›

For example, sheers hung beneath another curtain should always be at least one inch shorter than the top curtain.

How do you layer sheer curtains and blackout curtains? ›

Placing sheer curtains close to the window glass and blackout curtains towards the inside of the room allows for privacy during daylight and darker hours. During the daytime, opening blackout curtains will allow natural light to flow into the room.

What do you put under sheer curtains? ›

By choosing a liner that's the same shade (or a shade darker) than the sheer panel, you essentially preserve the color of the sheer panel. In other words, you won't see an unsightly liner peeking through the sheer. Instead, it will all look like seamless, rich color.

Can you have two different types of curtains in the same room? ›

Can you have different window treatments in the same room? Yes, you can, but it should be noted that if windows are right next to each other on the same wall, you're better off matching the two of them and choosing a different window treatment for windows on adjacent walls or separated in some way.

How far off the floor should sheer curtains be? ›

Curtains that drag on the floor could pose a tripping hazard and collect dust more easily. For the ideal middle ground, curtains should hover just above the floor. To find the right curtain length, measure from the floor to where you'll hang the rod (usually 4 to 6 inches above the window frame).

What type of curtains are in style 2022? ›

In 2022, simplicity and minimalism are emerging in curtain and drapery styles. Less fluff and more flow are the way to go when choosing new curtains for your home. Classic materials like cotton and linen are top of the trend list to match the light, relaxing, naturalist themes this year.

Do curtains look better short or long? ›

Standard curtains come in three lengths—84 inches, 96 inches, or 108 inches—but experts say you should opt for longer rather than shorter. Choosing the right curtain length can make or break a room. Professional designers follow one hard and fast rule in order to achieve the perfect dimensions.

What is the rule of thumb for curtains? ›

We recommend hanging most curtains at least 4-6 inches above the window frame. A general rule is two-thirds of the space above the window.

Can you put sheers over blackout curtains? ›

Once the blackout curtains are drawn, the beautiful fabric of the sheer curtains will be highlighted to give your room a light airy look. The other option is to have your sheer curtains as the top layer and your blackout curtains underneath.

What is in between blackout and sheer curtains? ›

Light Filtering Curtains Pros and Cons

Light filtering curtains allow the most amount of light into a room compared to blackout and room darkening curtains. These curtains are thinner and lighter than the other types and may be made with loosely woven fabric which allows light to come through.

Can you double layer sheer curtains? ›

Choose the Right Layers

The sheer curtains are common layering with the heavier opaque curtains or blackout curtains. The sheer curtains will add privacy meanwhile let the light in during day time. They can be layered with a double curtain rod or double brackets.

Are window sheers outdated? ›

Sheers aren't outdated. In fact, they're a timeless look that can fit well in any modern home. Use the above tips to incorporate them into your space.

Are sheer curtains on trend? ›

Modern day sheers have come a long way since their days as dowdy drapes. Nowadays, sheer curtains are the go-to, on-trend window treatment for interior designers and homeowners alike.

What should the curtains match with? ›

If you want the curtains to blend in, you'll want to choose a color scheme similar to your room's colors. If you want the curtains to make a statement, you'll want to choose a color scheme contrasting with the colors in your room.

Do all the curtains in one room need to be the same? ›

While you don't want every room to look the same, Baker notes that consistency is important for a home to feel cohesive. “We like to use similar window treatments throughout the home, playing them up or down depending on the room,” she explains.

What curtains are trending now? ›

Curtain materials like organic cotton, bamboo and recycled fabrics are becoming increasingly popular choices for window treatments. Not only are these materials better for the environment, but they also offer a natural, organic feel to a space.

What color curtains make a room look bigger? ›

Since bright colors are more reflective, the room looks airier and more open because it contains more natural light. Dark colors do just the opposite because they absorb light and make a space look smaller.

Which color is best for curtains? ›

Black, white, grey, brown, and beige are all neutral colours. Neutral curtain colours as per Vastu are considered the best. You can combine them with colors of your choice to add a pop of color here and there to make it brighter, if needed.

What color should living room curtains be? ›

It is always a good idea to match your curtain color with home decor pieces. A double layer of one sheer and one blackout is a classic and functional choice. If you are looking for minimal and modern style, pick a color that is close to you wall color or a slightly darker shade.

Should living room curtains be sheer? ›

Sheer curtains are a great choice when it comes to large window curtain ideas as they will provide privacy without compromising the light levels in the room. Ideal for overlooked rooms or those street level, light fabrics, such as voile or linen allow in diffused light while maintaining privacy when closed.

Why do some people use sheer curtain panels in their rooms? ›

Sheer curtains, also known as sheers are lightweight fabrics that cover over your windows, soften your home's lighting, and add an instant infusion of style into your interior decor. Sheer curtains give you a measure of privacy, but are also well-matched for a layered window treatment.

Are short curtains outdated? ›

Short curtains. Short curtains and drapes are not ideal, and most often you don't want curtains that hang more than an inch above the ground. Too short curtains can not only look outdated, but they can also sometimes make the ceiling look lower.

Is it OK if my curtains don't touch the floor? ›

'The perfect length for curtains depends on the aesthetic and mood of the space. However, curtains should either just touch the floor or be longer and puddle on the floor,' says Oshri Adri and Jillian Dahlman, the co-founders of Adri + Dahlman Interiors (opens in new tab).

Do curtains to the floor make a room look smaller? ›

By hanging curtains from the highest point of the wall that fall all the way down to the floor, you create a soft and subtle guide for the eye to follow, encouraging you to take in all of the space you have therefore giving the illusion of a larger room.

Are sheer curtains in style 2022? ›

Minimalistic Look –

Thus, sheer curtain fabrics are here to stay if minimalistic living is going to be the way. With such brilliant options and choices available, there is no doubt that sheer curtain fabrics are going to be in extremely high demand through the year 2022.

Are curtains out of style 2023? ›

Just about everyone agrees that curtains are still in style, but not just because they are useful and affordable. According to Livingetc, curtains add texture and coziness to a space, something other window coverings like blinds and shutters cannot do.

What is the most popular window covering in 2022? ›

Undeniably, Roller Shades continue to be forecasted as the leading window covering trend in 2022 largely due to their minimalistic style. Roller shades are also available in a variety of earth tone colors, textures and hardware options, making them an ideal choice for the trending naturistic color pallet.

What length curtains make a room look bigger? ›

For the best results, install the curtain rods high above the windows and keep the rods' length wider than the windows. Add 3 inches beyond the window frame on each side to: Make your windows look larger than they are. Open the curtains completely to allow maximum light penetration.

Are lighter or darker curtains better? ›

Light coloured curtains are good for rooms that get a lot of direct sunlight as they're less prone to fading from the sun. Dark and bright colours tend to fade faster. Good summer options as a white/lighter colour is more likely to bounce the sun's rays away keeping rooms cooler.

Do wall to wall curtains make a room look bigger? ›

Cover walls with curtains. "Extending your draperies from floor to ceiling and from wall to wall surrounding your window makes them appear bigger," explains Francesco Bilotto.

How many curtains should be on the side of a window? ›

First, measure the width of the window or bank of windows from the outside of the trim pieces. Write down the width measurement. Next, plan for the curtain rod to extend past the window frame by 8 to 10 inches on each side.

How many inches from the ceiling should I hang my curtains? ›

When it comes to how high to hang your curtain rod, a good rule of thumb is 2/3 of the distance between the top of the window and the ceiling. This creates the illusion of height. In rooms with standard 8′ ceilings, that can mean mounting the rod at the ceiling, which is perfectly fine!

How wide should curtains be for 70 inch window? ›

A common rule for displaying curtains properly says the curtains finished width should be at least 2 times the width of your window (if not more) to achieve a look of proper fullness.

Should sheer curtains go wall to wall? ›

Whether you want the sheer to run the width of the window/door frame or the entire wall comes down to personal preference. Running it across the whole wall gives more a sense of drama, but in a smaller room with lower ceilings it can feel like the sheer curtains are swallowing the room.

Do I need sheers with my curtains? ›

Unless you're designing a bedroom, you probably don't need blackout shades. Instead, pick sheer fabrics that let the light in and create a natural, breezy look. Sheer Belgian linen is a great material to achieve this look.

How do I get privacy but let light in? ›

How Can I Keep Light in but Keep Privacy, too?
  1. Solar Shades. Our solar shades are made for just this. ...
  2. Day and Night Honeycomb Shades. The Day and Night shades are perfect if you want the best of both worlds. ...
  3. Layering Shades with Drapes. ...
  4. Layering Inside and Outside Mount Blinds or Shades.
Apr 13, 2022

Can you mix sheer curtains with blackout curtains? ›

The most popular way to layer curtains is to place blackout curtains over sheer curtains. When you layer curtains like this, you give yourself greater control over the amount of light you want in that room ☀️. For example, when the blackout curtains are closed, all daylight is blocked out.

Can you have different style curtains in the same room? ›

It may sound crazy, but you can absolutely layer multiple styles of window treatments on the same window. For example, many homeowners choose to layer curtains over blinds-- the blinds help to keep the light out when needed and provide privacy, while the curtains help to dress up the wall a bit.

How do you make curtains with two different fabrics? ›

You can sew individual sets of curtains from the two different fabrics, then mount them with one in front of the other. This is possible with a special double curtain rod, clip rings or pole and ring sets and alternate the curtain panels attached to each consecutive ring.

How do you hang sheers with grommet curtains? ›

Takedown the rods, install the sheers on one rod, and allow it to accumulate at the center, and tie both edges of the rod. The grommet curtains should then be attached to the second rod through the grommets. Let the grommet curtains be separated from one another so that they fall closer to the rod's edges.

Do you double fabric for curtains? ›

Most curtains require a minimum of double fullness depending on the heading and the look you want to achieve. We recommend using 2.5 times fullness to create a luxurious look. First, you will need to multiply the width of your rail by two. Divide this by the cut width of your fabric i.e 137cm/ 54”.

How do you make curtains look modern? ›

Choose colorful, textured, and/or patterned fabric to make the most impact. They Can Make Your Space Look Larger: Extending the curtain rod beyond the actual window- both in terms of height and width, makes you think the window is larger, and the ceilings taller, than they actually are.

Why are grommet curtains so popular? ›

Curtains with a grommet top have feature metal open rings punched into the fabric at the top of the panels that allow them to slide along the rod easily. Their easy operation makes Grommet Curtains the perfect fit choice for draperies you want to open and close regularly.

How high should grommet curtains hang? ›

How high should you hang your curtains? Using your stepladder and tape measure, measure the distance from the top of your window molding, then go up 2-4 inches. This will be the height of your curtain rod. Keep in mind that the standard length of grommet panels is 84”, although longer lengths are also available.

What is the best curtain fullness? ›

So, if you are having curtains with a gathered valance, our experience has taught us that for the best results, you should aim for the curtains to have a fullness ratio of 2.0 – 2.5 times the rail width and the valance to have a fullness of around 2.5 – 3.0 times the rail width.

What is curtain fullness examples? ›

If your curtain pole is 1m long and the curtain is 2m wide, the fullness is 2 times, or written 2x. This means that there is twice as much fabric in the width as the pole length.

Should curtains be twice as wide as the window? ›

A common rule for displaying curtains properly says the curtains finished width should be at least 2 times the width of your window (if not more) to achieve a look of proper fullness. Example: If your window measures 36" wide (window width x 2 = 72"), you need curtains that will give a minimum width of 72".

Can I layer two sheer curtains? ›

The sheer curtains are common layering with the heavier opaque curtains or blackout curtains. The sheer curtains will add privacy meanwhile let the light in during day time. They can be layered with a double curtain rod or double brackets.

What is the difference between sheer and voile curtains? ›

They bring both practical and stylish elements to the space. Traditionally, voiles were layered with curtains to protect the privacy of the homeowners. The sheer, lightweight fabric would remain closed throughout the day, allowing light to flood the space, yet obscuring the view from the world outside.

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