The total length of the curtain track should be equal to the width of the window, plus any additional overlap you may want. For example, if your window is 50 inches wide, your curtain track length should also be 50 inches.
For a more generous overlap, you can add up to 8-12 inches on both sides. Alternatively, if you want less overlap and a more streamlined look, you can add just 1-2 inches on each side of the window. Keeping this in mind, you should measure the exact width of your window before purchasing the curtain track.
When measuring for a curtain track, measure the entire track width at the top. The track should typically run across the full width of the window’s casing. The track can also expand beyond the window casing to provide even more overlap.
Don’t forget to consider how much clearance you need for the curtains to open easily. If possible, let the curtains move freely from end to end without needing to be manipulated in any way.
What are standard curtain lengths?
Standard curtain lengths depend on a variety of factors, including the type of curtain and the intended use.
For floor-length curtains, the general rule of thumb is to measure the window from top to bottom and then double that measurement to determine the length of the curtains. This will ensure that the curtains hang properly, cover the majority of the window, and graze the floor.
Curtains hung just above the window frame generally measure from approximately 15 to 20 inches in length and come in two preset lengths: 45 inches and 54 inches. These shorter lengths can be used for aesthetic purposes or to fit within the dimensions of a window that is too short for floor-length curtains.
Tier curtains and valances tend to be a bit shorter than standard curtains and typically measure at approximately 24 inches in length to cover the majority of the window.
Ultimately, the specific measurements of curtains should be based on the window size and overall look desired in the space. It is recommended that you measure the window prior to purchasing curtains to ensure you get the correct size.
How far should a curtain pole extend past window?
Ideally, a curtain pole should extend approximately 10 to 15 cm beyond the window frame on either side. This allows enough space for the curtains to fully open and stack back against the wall without obstructing the window or blocking any sunlight.
Additionally, if you choose a pole that is too short, it can create an incomplete and unbalanced look. If you have a large or wide window, you may want to opt for a longer pole to ensure an even spread over the width.
Should my curtains touch floor?
This is ultimately a matter of personal preference, though there are general guidelines that can help you make the most flattering choice for your space. In general, if you want a more traditional look, curtains should fall just below window sills and brush the floor.
For a more modern look, you can allow your curtains to pool on the floor slightly. This creates a stylized look that won’t be overwhelmed by the additional fabric. Additionally, you may need to opt for lengthier window coverings if you plan to open and close them often, as this will help them stay out of your way.
If you have blinds or shades behind your curtains, floor-length panels make a great choice. You may even consider creating a layered curtain look with a shorter or mid-length panel in front of a longer one.
Where should curtains fall on window sill?
Hanging curtains on a window sill can be a great way to add style and softness to any room. It can provide a simple, yet elegant look for a room. When it comes to where the curtains should fall on the window sill, it depends on what look you are going for and the size of your windows.
Generally, when mounting higher, the curtains should end a few inches above the window sill, about 2 to 6 inches usually. This provides a soft, billowing look. However, if that does not provide coverage for a room, more can be added.
When mounting lower, the curtains should reach the floor even if the sill is at an awkward height. For example, if the window is lower, the standard would be to mount the curtain rod at the top of the window frame so the curtains can drape all the way to the floor.
A popular option is to mount the curtain rod just above the windowsill. This provides a traditional, classic look and gives you the ability to show off more of the window itself. This look is especially great in rooms with big windows.
No matter how you decide to hang the curtains, there are some key measurements that you should take into consideration. Make sure the window hardware is centered, meaning equal distance from the floor to the rod top.
Also, measure from the top of the rod to the bottom of the curtain and center the rod so the curtains are symmetrical.
It is also important to keep the rod a little wider than the window itself to ensure the hardware can hold the curtain fabric. If the curtains are too lightweight the rod may need to be a bit wider to support the fabric.
In the end, deciding where the curtains should fall on the window sill should depend on the individual style you are aiming for and the size of the window.
How close to the ceiling should you hang curtains?
The general rule of thumb is to hang curtains approximately four to six inches from the ceiling. This ensures that the curtains sit high enough to make the room appear taller and also more formal. However, this is by no means an absolute rule; it depends largely on the style of the room.
If the room has a more contemporary look and feel, for example, you might choose to hang the curtains even closer to the ceiling, or even mount them directly onto the ceiling. Additionally, the height of the ceiling itself could also play a factor in determining curtain hanging height.
If the ceiling is particularly low, you may opt to hang the curtains closer to the window frame or lower down on the wall. Ultimately, it’s important to find a balance between creating a well-dressed look and ensuring the curtains do not feel overpowering in the room.
How far from the ceiling should a curtain rod be hung?
The correct distance to hang a curtain rod from the ceiling depends on the height of the room and the size of the curtains. Generally speaking, the bottom of the rod should hang at least 4 inches away from the ceiling.
If you have taller ceilings (10 feet or higher), you may want to hang the rod 12-18 inches from the ceiling. This allows for more flexibility in the choice of curtains, as well as for you to adjust the length of the curtains.
When hanging a rod above a window, the rod should be hung at least 2 inches above the window casing. When hanging a rod over a door, the rod should be hung 2-3 inches above the top of the door. It’s important to keep in mind that due to the weight of the curtains, the rod should be securely fixed to the ceiling or a wall bracket.
Can you join 2 curtain poles together?
Yes, it is possible to join two curtain poles together. Depending on the manufacturer, there are several different methods to join two curtain poles together, with some poles being designed to connect directly to each other while other poles may require an adapter or coupler.
The simplest way to join two poles is to use a dual curtain bracket, which attaches to the wall and holds both poles in place. Alternatively, you can use a coupler that screws into the end of one pole and connects to the other pole.
For poles that aren’t meant to be joined directly, you can use an extension piece or header bracket that fits into each pole and has screws that attach to each other and the wall. No matter which method you choose, it’s best to measure your pole length before buying parts or accessories to ensure everything fits properly.
How can I make my curtain pole longer?
If you need a longer curtain pole, there are various ways for you to do this. The easiest way is to purchase an extender rod or an adjustable rod that can be lengthened to your specific measurements.
Other options include purchasing an additional curtain pole and creating a double-pole effect, adding additional brackets further from the window to support the existing pole, or fastening a new piece of wood along the wall to extend the length of your existing pole.
You should also measure your window and curtain before purchasing any materials to ensure you get the right size and length. If these options don’t work for you, you can always hire a professional to come in and customize the length of your pole using their specialized tools.
How do you join two poles?
Joining two poles can be done in a variety of ways depending on what kind of poles you are working with. If they are wooden or metal poles, the most common way to successfully join them is to use a joiner plate.
This is a metal plate that is screwed or bolted into the ends of the poles using a screwdriver or drill. It is important to ensure you use appropriate screws or bolts that are strong enough to hold the poles in place.
Another option is to use a bracket or brace to hold the poles together. This is more secure than a joiner plate, but adds a bit more work because the right position has to be determined before it can be installed.
If the poles are made of PVC, then a coupler or coupling clamp can be used to join them together. It involves sliding the poles together, then tightening the clamps to form a secure connection.
What do you do if your curtain rod is too short?
If your curtain rod is too short, there are a few options to consider. First, if possible, try to purchase a longer curtain rod to fit your window. If you cannot find one to fit, you could purchase a set of two smaller curtain rods that are the same length and can be hung side-by-side.
This would give you the same overall length, while still providing adequate support. Another option is to purchase an adjustable-length curtain rod, which can be adjusted to fit the width of your window.
Lastly, you could purchase a tension rod, which is self-supporting and doesn’t require holes to be drilled into the wall. These can come in a variety of sizes, so you’re sure to find one that will fit your window.
What length do curtain poles come in?
Curtain poles come in a wide range of lengths, from as small as 1.5m for a standard window, up to 3m for a full patio door. Some manufacturers offer curtain poles of even longer lengths, up to a maximum of 6m, to accommodate very large window spans.
You should always measure the gap between your window or door frames before purchasing a curtain pole, to ensure you buy the correct size for your needs.
How wide should curtains be for 72 inch window?
When measuring for curtains for a 72 inch window, it is typically recommended to pick curtains that are two to three times as wide as the width of the window. This will allow for fuller and more luxurious looking drapes that will hang nicely.
If you are looking to add a bit of extra luxurious feel, consider curtains that are three or four times the width of the window. For the 72 inch window, it is recommended to look for curtains that are between 144 and 216 inches wide.
It is important to note that although the width of a panel of curtain fabric is typically less than the width of the window, it is best to have panels that overlap and/or puddle on the floor. This overlapping of the panels will prevent light from streaming in between the panels and provide a polished look.
If the curtains will not be touching the floor, the width of the curtains should be projected out from the window so that the width of the curtains is equal to the window length. As a point of reference, 72 inches wide curtains would typically be 144 inches in total length.
Do eyelet curtains need to be double width?
No, eyelet curtains do not need to be double width. The size of the curtains depends on the size of the window you are covering and the look you want to achieve. Generally, it is best to determine the width of the curtains based on the size of the window, plus a little extra for width on either side.
For example, if your window is 40” wide, you could use curtains that are 45” – 50” wide, depending on the size of your window and the look you want to achieve. It is important to make sure that you get the right size for the window, so that you have optimal coverage and make the most of the window space.