Skip to Content

What is the rule of thumb for hanging curtains?

The general rule of thumb for properly hanging curtains is to install the rod four to six inches above the top of the window frame, as high as you can, since it will draw the eye upward and make the window appear taller.

The rod should also extend at least six inches beyond the frame on either side to provide a more balanced appearance while ensuring the curtain fabric falls properly.

When determining how much fabric to buy, take the measurement of the window width and double it, then add another 15”. This will give you the necessary fabric width to cover the entire window, as well as enough fullness to ensure the curtains hang properly.

For proper length, measure the length of window frame starting four inches below the rod and ending at the desired length. Depending on the style of your curtains, they should extend one-half to one inch below the sill, or a few inches above the floor—longer if you want a puddled look.

How far should a curtain rod extend past window?

Depending on the type of curtains you have and the look you are going for, the answer can vary. Generally, the curtain rod should extend at least 6 inches (roughly 15 cm) beyond each side of the window, so 3-6 inches (7.

5 cm to 15 cm) on each side. If you have long, flowing curtains, the curtain rod should extend beyond the window frame more, approximately 8-12 inches (about 20-30 cm) on each side. This will ensure the curtains hang properly and you get the look you are going for.

Should curtains hang inside the window frame?

It depends on the window type, the look that you are trying to achieve, and personal preference. For traditional windows, it’s best to hang the curtains inside the window frame, as this will create a cleaner, more polished look.

By hanging the curtains inside the frame, you also ensure they are far enough away from the window to allow more light to come through. If you have larger windows you may want to hang them outside to create more drama.

For less traditional windows like floor to ceiling or sliding glass doors, you may also want to hang them outside of the frame to really show off the window and make a statement. You can also opt to hang them both inside and outside for a layered look.

In the end, hanging curtains inside or outside of the frame is up to personal preference, but if you want a polished and unfussy look, then hang them inside the window frame.

Where should curtains fall?

Curtains should fall approximately 1/2-2/3 of the way from the top of the window to the window sill. It is recommended to hang the rod four to ten inches above the window frame for a more aesthetically pleasing look.

The desired length for the curtains will depend on the height of the window, the weight of the material, and the style of the curtains. Generally speaking, when hung at the recommended height, the curtains will naturally fall around two-thirds of the way down the window.

However, the curtains can also be hung higher up to allow more natural light in, or lower to provide more privacy if desired.

How do you hang curtains like a professional?

Hanging curtains like a professional starts with having the right tools. You’ll need a drill or a screwdriver, depending on the type of wall anchors or screws you’re using, a level, a measuring tape, a pencil, and a pencil sharpener.

Next, measure the width of the window and measure for the length that you would like your curtains to hang. For a professional look, it’s best to hang the curtains higher than the window. If you’re opting for floor-length curtains, you’ll want the curtains to be a few inches longer than the bottom of the window.

Additionally, you’ll need to account for the rod diameter when measuring the width so the curtain will hang correctly.

Once you’ve finished measuring and cut your curtain rod, you can start to hang it up. Begin by marking on the wall where the brackets will be attached. Install the bracket on the wall, making sure to screw it into a stud if possible.

If you don’t have access to a stud, consider using wall anchors for extra security.

Once the brackets are secure, slide the curtains onto the rod and hang it in the brackets. You can pull the curtains away from the window to create a “swag” effect around the window frame. Make sure the curtains hang evenly to the floor and check with a level to make sure they’re level.

Hanging curtains like a professional can take some time, but if done correctly it will result in a more professional-looking window treatment.

How do you make curtains look elegant?

Making curtains look elegant is possible with some simple steps. First, choose a fabric that has a luxurious look and feel. Silks, velvet and linen are all excellent choices for making elegant curtains.

Second, when selecting the color, opt for one that fits in with the overall decor of the room and isn’t overly bright. A muted color will help to create a soft and inviting feel. Third, select the right rod.

Choose a strong and sturdy rod that won’t sag in the middle and can easily hold the weight of the curtains. Fourth, if possible, invest in custom curtains and have a professional tailor fit them to your windows.

Custom curtains are perfect for creating that elegant look you desire. Finally, add some elegant and complementary accessories like tassels, tiebacks and an extra canopy panel. By following these steps, you’ll be able to create curtains that look truly elegant in any room.

Should curtains cover the whole wall?

Whether or not you should cover the whole wall with curtains really depends on the look you’re trying to achieve and the overall style of the room. If your goal is to make the room look cozier and create more privacy, then covering the entire wall with curtains might be a good option, as it will give the room a soft, inviting feel.

However, if you want to open up the room and let more light in, then you may not want to cover the whole wall, instead opting for a combination of curtains and blinds. Additionally, depending on the size of your room, you may want to simply hang the curtains on either side of the window to draw more attention to the window rather than totally overwhelm the space.

So, while there is no definitive answer as to whether or not you should cover the entire wall with curtains, it ultimately depends on what style and look you’re going for.

How far below the window should curtains hang?

The general rule of thumb for how far curtains should hang below the window is that the curtains should hang about 6 to 8 inches below the window sill, or about one-half to one-third of the way down the window.

For example, if the window is 24 inches from top to bottom, the curtains should hang about 12 to 16 inches from the window sill. However, this length is not set in stone, and you should also take into account the size and length of the curtains and the look you desire.

Long, dramatic curtains can look best when they hang close to the floor. If you wish to add a more luxurious feel to the room, then you should hang the curtains longer. You could also consider having a break in the curtains, with the panels hanging higher up, which can add character to the room.

How far should curtains be off the floor?

The ideal distance that curtains should be off the floor depends on the style you wish to achieve. If you’re going for a contemporary look, you should hang them just high enough to be above the window frame and floor baseboard.

Typically this means that curtains should be hung at least 6 inches above the window frame and at least one-half inch above the baseboard. For a more traditional look, you should hang your curtains higher, typically 8 to 12 inches above the window frame, and 1 to 2 inches above the baseboard.

If you’re looking for an elegant or formal look, you should hang your curtains up to the ceiling or just below it.

How high should you hang curtains with 8 foot ceiling?

When hanging curtains on an 8-foot ceiling, the general rule of thumb is to mount the rod four to six inches above the window frame, which should place the rod approximately 7 – 9 feet off the ground.

This allows the curtains to hang to the floor without dragging, providing a finished look and providing the space with a sense of added height. It is also a good idea to hang the rod at the same height across multiple windows in the same room to create a consistent look.

If the ceiling is exceptionally high, you might consider hanging the rod slightly higher to ensure that the curtains reach the floor.

What size do curtain rods come in?

Curtains rods come in many different sizes, and can range from as small as 13 inches to as large as 144 inches. The length of the curtain rod will depend on a few factors: the size of the window, the type of curtains that will be used, and the amount of opening space you need for the curtains.

The size of the curtains also has an effect as longer rods will work better for wider curtains, while shorter rods are best for narrower window treatments. If you have pre-determined measurements for the length of the curtains, measure the curtains and add any additional space you need for overlap or pleating to determine the size of the rod you need.

You may also want to consider adjustable or telescoping curtain rods, which allow you to customize the size to fit your window.

When selecting the diameter of the rod, this will typically be based on personal preference. If you want an unobtrusive look, try a thinner rod as these are less noticeable. If you want something with more substance and presence, opt for a thicker rod.

Additionally, take into consideration the style of rod you need: a traditional single rod, a rod that is part of a double rod system, tension rods and more.

What is the longest curtain rod you can get?

That depends on what type of curtain rod you are looking for. If you are looking for a standard curtain rod, then the longest standard size curtain rod would be approximately 240 inches, which is 20 feet.

However, if you are looking for a longer curtain rod, there are custom-made curtain rods that can be made to any length you may need. In these cases, the longest curtain rod you could get would be completely determined by the size of the space you are installing it in.

What size curtain rod do I need for heavy curtains?

When selecting a curtain rod for heavy curtains, it is important to choose a rod that will hold the weight of your curtains as well as the brackets and finials. For a standard size window, a rod that is 2.

5 to 3 inches in diameter will usually be enough to accommodate heavier fabrics. However, if your curtains are extra long or wide, or you plan to hang several layers of heavy curtains, you will likely need a rod that is 4-6 inches in diameter.

Additionally, make sure the rod you choose is rated to hold the desired weight of your curtains or select an extendable rod to ensure that your curtains are supported as desired.

How do you install a 120 inch curtain rod?

Installing a 120 inch curtain rod is a relatively simple task that requires a few basic tools. First, make sure to measure the width of your window and add 6-12 inches to determine the perfect size curtain rod for your window.

Begin by installing the brackets that will hold up the curtain rod. Typically, there will be two sets of brackets; make sure they are spaced equally apart to ensure that the rod is level. Then, make sure the wall is even and look down the line of brackets to double check the alignment.

Secure the sides of the brackets, using a level to make sure they are plumb, then use the provided screws to secure the brackets to the wall.

Next, insert the rod into the brackets and push it in until it locks in place. If your brackets require a special pin or fastener to install securely, make sure to use the one provided. Once the rod is in place, it is time to attach the finials, or decorative covers for the ends of the rod.

Finally, hang your curtains on the rod and adjust the length if necessary. Curtains usually come with pinch-pleated or eyelet pockets for easy installation. You can also use rings, clips or steel gliders if your rod is wider than 1 inch across.

Now, you can sit back and enjoy your newly installed 120 inch curtain rod and curtains.

Can I join two curtain rods together?

Yes, you can join two curtain rods together. This is a simple process that requires two couplings, two screws, and two washers. First, you will need to unscrew the caps from the two curtain rods and fit them together.

Once the two curtain rods are joined, place the two washers onto the end of the two screws. Then, place each screw into the two couplings one at a time and tighten them. Finally, screw the caps back onto the joint in order to secure the two curtain rods together.

Where do you place curtain rod brackets?

Curtain rod brackets should be placed on the wall where you want the rod to hang, typically above a window or on a wall near the ceiling of the room. When placing brackets, measure carefully and mark the wall where the brackets should be placed, as this will help ensure that the rod is level.

When marking the wall, make sure that you leave enough space between the two brackets to accommodate the length of the curtain rod. It’s also important to make sure that the brackets are attached to a solid portion of the wall, as this will help ensure that the weight of the curtains is well-supported.

Once the brackets are secured, you can then place the curtain rod through them and hang your curtains.

How much wider Should your curtain rod be than your window?

The exact width of curtain rods should generally be equal to or slightly wider than the width of your window, allowing for a maximum of 6-8 inches on either side. If you’re choosing a rod that is much wider than your window, it can cause your drapes to look overpowered, too short, and unbalanced.

Wider rods, however, may be necessary when you’re installing curtains on large windows or when you’d like to give the appearance of a wide window. If your large window is 12 feet wide and you want to hang curtains on either side, then you may need to select a 24 foot rod.

By doing this, you can evenly distribute the fabric on either side of the window while making sure the window doesn’t look undersized by the curtains. Keep in mind, too, that curtaining on a window with a larger rod should be biased to make it look more in proportion.

When considering the width of a curtain rod, remember to also measure how far out from the window in which you’d like the rod to be. Most designers suggest keeping it about 6” away from the window in order to create depth and create the illusion of a larger window.

What is a standard curtain rod width?

The standard curtain rod width generally depends on the size of your window. For drapery panels on a single window, it’s best to use one that is at least 2-3 inches wider than the window’s width. This will ensure that the panels are adequately overlapping each other when closed.

For double windows, it’s usually recommended to use a rod that is at least 4-5 inches wider than the combined width of the two windows. That ensures the panels are still overlapping when closed. In addition, the amount of overlap should be increased slightly if the window is wider than the standard size, such as for a bay window.