People sometimes get stuck on how to properly hang curtains. You're not alone. But once you earn these few simple rules, you will realize how easy it really is and not feel intimidated in getting started.
The truth is that hanging curtains is actually not very hard as long as you know some basic rules. Before you go out and purchase the rods or curtains, be sure to read this blog and complete Steps 1 & 2.
The 3 Steps to Hanging Curtains Properly
To hang curtains, it's important to know that the rod needs extend 4-12 inches from the edge of the window depending on the look you are going for. The more, the better.
Next on the list to hang curtains properly is to make sure the rod is mounted closer to the ceiling, but at least a few inches above the window frame. With that in mind, the curtains need to at least touch the ground or puddle (depending on the look you are going for).
Based of the measurements you take from above steps, you will then determine what length rod to buy and what length curtain to buy.
Let's get into some more details for each step:
1. The rod needs to extend beyond the window
If you don't do this, your curtain will obstruct the light and view of the window and make it look smaller. By allowing the curtain to rest open just outside of the window, it makes the window appear larger and maximizes the amount of natural light into the room. A little overlap to the window frame is fine, but not too much unless there is just not enough room. Allow the curtains to serve as a beautifully soft frame around your windows.
2. The curtain needs to be long enough from top to bottom
Always make sure that when you hang your curtain, you hang it on the wall at least a few inches ABOVE the window frame and closer to the ceiling. This again allows it to look larger and more grand, drawing the eyes upwards and giving the illusion of nice tall ceilings. The bottom of the curtain needs to touch the ground without a gap OR it can puddle on the ground. It depends on which look you prefer. BTW - Consider the length of the curtain you are considering buying as you decide how high to place the rod (at least 96 inches for 8 ft ceilings; DO NOT BUY 84 inch curtains as they are too short for this approach)
3. Put all the measurements together and purchase your items!
Once you've determined how much wider than the window you need your rods and how high and low you want you curtains to hang, you can now measure and decide what size curtains and rods to buy. Use the helpful calculator from TwoPages. Just input your window measurements and it will tell you exactly what size rod and curtain you need. If you need suggestions for curtains and rods, here is a link to my favorites.
EASY MEASUREMENT CALCULATOR BY TWOPAGES
I truly hope this simple guide helps you hang your curtains and make your space look welcoming and cozy!