To choose the right curtain rod for blackout curtains, you’ll want to look for one that has features that will suit your needs. A spring tension rod or a wrap around or traverse rod can be ideal for your blackout curtains.
Spring tension rods are easy to install and adjust and work great for lighter materials such as sheers and voiles, but won’t be strong enough to support heavier blackout curtains. Wrap around or traverse rods work great for heavier curtains and are available in many styles and sizes, making it easy to find one to fit your space.
Be sure to measure the width of your window before you shop for your curtain rod. Depending on your preference, some curtain rods also come with adjustable brackets, tiebacks and decorative ends.
What are blackout rods?
Blackout rods are dark metal rods that are used to limit the amount of light that enters a room. They can be used to blackout a room entirely, or just dim the light to create a darker atmosphere. Blackout rods are usually made of metal such as aluminum, steel, or stainless steel.
They are usually adjustable so they can be used to customize the intensity of the darkness. Blackout rods can be used in a variety of settings – from residential homes to professional photography studios.
They are a great alternative to traditional curtains and shades, as they are more durable and don’t have to be replaced as often. Blackout rods can be used to create a calming environment, block out unwanted light, and even help keep a room cool during hot weather.
How do I choose a curtain rod?
Choosing the right curtain rod for your window can be a tricky process. The primary considerations are the length of the window, the desired look, and personal preference. Here are a few steps to help you through the process:
1. Measure the length of the window. Measure the full width of the window, then add an additional 2.5 to 3 inches (7.5 to 8 cm) on both sides to account for an overlap. Make sure to measure the entire window treatment, including any valances or other fabric.
2. Decide on the type of rod you want. Your options typically include metal, wood, aluminum and brass. Consider the type of fabric you are hanging, and the style and color of the room when selecting.
3. Consider any additional mounting hardware. If you need to hang curtains that weigh more than 20 pounds, you may need to purchase additional mounting hardware, such as wall anchors, special screws and hooks, or ceiling mounts.
4. Select a color or finish that complements other elements in the room. A light color or bright finish can add impact, while darker tones tend to be more subtle, and can create an elegant atmosphere.
5. Make sure to select a curtain rod that is proportionate to the window, and suits your desired look. In general, a curtain rod should be about twice as wide as the window.
Following these tips will help you find the right curtain rod for your space, ensuring it can provide protection, privacy, and style.
How thick should curtain rod be?
The thickness of the curtain rod you choose will depend on the weight of your curtains and the style of your space. If you’re hanging heavy curtains, consider a thicker rod for sturdy support, like a 1” or 1 ½” diameter rod.
Medium to lightweight fabrics look great on rods in the range of ½” and ¾” in diameter.
For a more traditional look, you can go for larger diameter rods up to 2” or 2 1/2” thick if you’re looking for a grand, luxurious feel.
On the other hand, if you’re going for a modern, sleek look, opt for a thin rod up to 1/16” to match this minimalistic aesthetic. It’s important to keep in mind that rods of this thickness may not be strong enough to hold heavy drapery.
No matter the size of the rod, you’ll also want to consider the material in which it is made. Steel, aluminum, and wooden rods are all great sturdy options, each with its own unique look and feel. Furthermore, various finishes such as brass, bronze, nickel, and chrome provide beautiful style.
The material and finish used should depend upon the other decorative pieces in the space and the general look and feel you’re going for.
Ultimately, the thickness of the curtain rod can be selected to give any style of home the perfect frame for the curtains.
What happened to No 8 tackle?
No 8 tackle, also known as front tack, was a rugby ploy popularised in the late 19th century and early 20th century. It was a technique whereby the forwards would pick up the ball at the base of a scrum and gain ground by passing it down the line.
The technique was widely used in British and Irish rugby and other contact sports such as Association football and football.
However, due to the complexity of the tactical play and the risk of serious injury to players, the practice of No 8 tackle eventually died out in the late 1950s. Rugby union lost its popularity, particularly in Britain and Ireland, as the market became flooded with new sports, such as rugby league, that offered faster and more adrenaline-pumping entertainment.
The component parts of the No 8 tackle became obsolete and replaced by “touch” and “shunt” techniques, which offered a more effective and less dangerous way of moving the ball.
The No 8 tackle technique can sometimes still be seen in archery or shooting sports, and it is sometimes referred to as the “long boom”. It is also still used in close-quarter martial arts, such as judo, kung fu and aikido, as a way to practice grappling and blocking.
Overall, the No 8 tackle is a unique and fascinating part of rugby’s history; although it has been relegated to the sidelines, its effects still linger on in some form or another.
How do I block the top of my curtain lights?
To block the top of your curtain lights, you will need to purchase a tension rod and either tough fabric or a blackout curtain that can fit the rod. Start by measuring the width of your window and then double to get the width of the curtain.
Next, choose the tension rod that matches the width of your curtain or slightly smaller that can secure around the window frame. Adjust the rod to fit the window frame and attach it securely. Then, secure the fabric or blackout curtain to the tension rod.
You should secure the fabric above the curtain lights by folding it in half and secure it with small clips or pins that will not be visible. Finally, make sure the fabric is hung snugly so that no light is able to get through.
Can you hang curtains too high?
Yes, you can hang curtains too high. If you hang curtains too high, it can make the room look smaller and the curtains overwhelm the space. Additionally, if the curtains are hung too high, the window will not look proportional to the size of the room.
For the best look, measure the windows correctly and hang the rod at least 6 inches above the window but no more than 8 inches if you plan on hanging the curtains all the way to the ceiling.
Is it better to have curtains too long or too short?
It is generally better to have curtains that are too long rather than too short. Longer curtains can always be hemmed to your desired length, but if the curtains are already too short, it is often impossible to lengthen them.
Longer curtains can also provide an elegant, finished look that looks better than curtains that are too short. Additionally, having curtains that are too short can prevent adequate coverage of the window, meaning that too much light can come into the room, making it difficult to fall asleep or watch movies.
How low should curtains hang below window sill?
The ideal height for curtains to hang below the window sill varies depending on the size of the window, the type of curtains, and the desired look. For a layered look, the drapery panels should hang at least four to six inches below the window sill.
However, they can hang up to the floor for a more classic look. Room-darkening curtains should have an extra 4-6 inches of length added to ensure that light isn’t seeping through partially opened curtains.
Just remember, the higher up you hang them, the less the curtains will pool on the floor. For a tiered look with multiple panels, the panels should be at least two inches wider than the window, with the second least one inch above the windowsill and the third at least four to six inches below the windowsill.
If the curtains aren’t wide enough, ensuring they hang at least four inches below the window sill will give them a balanced and neat appearance.
Do curtains have to touch the floor?
No, curtains do not have to touch the floor. Depending on the style and look it is trying to achieve, curtains can be anywhere from an inch off the floor to an inch or two above it. This is especially true when installing curtain rods higher than the standard height to create the illusion of taller windows.
Longer curtains close to the floor will give a more traditional look, while shorter curtains can create a more contemporary look. It is also important to keep a consistent length between multiple curtains, since different sized lengths may cause your window to look uneven.
For instance, if you have two curtain panels and one is longer than the other, they will not look balanced. Ultimately, it is completely up to personal preference on the length of your curtains.
How do you secure curtains to the wall?
The most common is using drapery brackets, or curtain rod holders. These come in a variety of styles and finishes to match the decor of your space. For lighter weight curtains, it is easy to drill into the wall and insert the brackets into the holes.
For heavier curtains, it may be a good idea to use a toggle bolt for more secure anchoring. You will also want to ensure these are distributed evenly on the wall to prevent any sagging.
Another option is to use trellis hooks that you can attach to the top of the drapes and then slip over a hardened steel pipe. This is a great way to hang the drapes in place without having to drill into the wall.
For a more decorative look, you can use a rod and finial to hang the curtains. You will need an L-bracket on either side of the window frame to hang the rod over. Make sure these are heavy-duty and firmly attached to the wall.
Finally, you can use a tension rod, which works much like a shower curtain rod but is designed to fit inside the window frames and is held in place by tension. It is easy to install and you can find a style that matches the rest of your decor.
Whichever option you choose, make sure you are properly securing your curtains to the wall for a neat and streamlined look.
What can I put behind my curtains to block light?
The most affordable and easy way is to purchase a blackout fabric liner and attach it to the back of your curtain. Blackout fabric liners come in a variety of colors and textures and can be matched to any existing curtains.
You can find these liners in most fabric stores or online. Another option is to use a thermal or insulated lining that provides additional energy efficiency by reducing heat loss or gain. If you prefer a more attractive option, you can hang a separate blackout shade or curtain.
This can be motorized for easy control. Finally, a third option is installing a light-blocking window film. This film is applied directly to the window and allowed to dry, forming an almost invisible shield to keep extra light from entering the room.
How do I get a total blackout in my bedroom?
The first is to invest in blackout curtains. Blackout curtains are designed to block out 99% of incoming light, and they are available in a variety of materials and styles to suit any decor. If your windows are extra wide or have an oddly shaped trim, you may need to look into custom-made curtains.
Additionally, you can purchase blackout blinds, which can be operated manually or with a motorized mechanism.
Another solution is to create your own blackout curtains by gluing a black fabric liner to white curtains. This will also provide insulation, blocking out any drafts that may come through the windows.
However, blackout liners are also available at most fabric stores. Lastly, you can install blackout shades inside your window frames, which will completely block out any incoming light. These shades tend to be more expensive than curtains and blinds, but offer a more permanent and sturdy solution.
How do I stop the sun from coming through the window?
One solution is to invest in exterior shades or shutters that can be closed to block out incoming sunlight. These may require professional installation and are often best suited for the exterior of your home.
Alternatively, you can use interior window coverings such as drapes, blinds, or curtains to provide better light control. You can also apply a window film, which comes in various colors and shades and is applied directly onto the glass and can significantly reduce the amount of light that comes in.
Finally, you can opt for window treatments such as shutters, which can be adjusted to let in a desired amount of natural light, while providing the privacy you need.
What is curtain pelmet?
A curtain pelmet is a decorative item that is typically used to cover curtain rods and hardware. It is a board that fits at the top of the curtains, hiding the curtain rod and fixtures and adding a layer of decoration to the window.
Typically, the pelmet will match the fabric of the curtains, but can be used as an accent color or pattern as well. Pelmets can also be used to construct valances, soffits and other window treatments.
They can be made of a variety of materials, such as fabrics, laminates, and wood. Depending on the window treatment, the pelmet can be attached to the wall or suspended from the ceiling. Many styles of curtain pelmets are available, ranging from simple boxes to intricately-carved designs.
How do I blackout my window edges?
Blacking out the edges of your windows is a great way to increase privacy, reduce light pollution, or just add a decorative touch to your space. Depending on what type of window you have and the look you are going for.
If you have wooden framed windows you could use wood stain or temporary paint to gradually darken the wood and black out the edge. Alternatively you could opt for a more permanent option and use black paint or trim for the edge.
If you have windows with a PVC or metal surrounding, you could use black vinyl decals, or black poster board applied with adhesive. For a more decorative approach, try attaching black, wispy string around the edges of the window to give the illusion of a blackened edge.
Finally, you could take a DIY approach and use black electrical tape, photos or fabric to create a unique look for your windows. Whichever approach you choose, be sure to measure your windows first and work slowly when applying the material so you don’t make any mistakes.
