Its time for a curtain intervention. We all make mistakes when decorating—trust me, I’ve had my fair share of Pinterest fails and DIY disasters over the years. But while most decor mishaps are minor, hanging your curtains wrong can make a big impact on how your space looks and feels.
As your resident decor expert with a knack for home hacks, let me share some truth: avoiding common curtain hanging mistakes is key. Measure twice, choose wisely, and hang with care—your windows are worth the extra effort. When done right, curtains transform a room and become the crowning jewels of your design scheme. Get them wrong and your space never quite comes together as chicly as you envisioned!
Mistake #1: Hanging curtains too narrow
One of the most common mistakes people make when hanging curtains is not extending the rod enough beyond the window frame. This can make the window look smaller and the curtains look skimpy. It can also prevent the curtains from covering the window completely and letting in unwanted light or drafts.
How to fix it:
The rule of thumb is to hang your curtain rod at least 8 to 12 inches wider than your window on each side. This will allow enough room for the curtains to hang on either side of the window and create a fuller and more elegant look. It will also help block out more light and noise and insulate your room better.
Mistake #2: Hanging curtains too low
Another common mistake people make when hanging curtains is not hanging them high enough above the window frame. This can make the ceiling look lower and the room look cramped. It can also make the curtains look too short or too long for the window.
How to fix it:
The rule of thumb is to hang your curtain rod about 4 to 6 inches above the window frame or closer to the ceiling if possible. This will create an illusion of height and make your room look more spacious and airy. It will also allow you to choose the length of your curtains according to your preference, whether you want them to just touch the floor, puddle on the floor, or hang a few inches above the floor.
Mistake #3: Hanging curtains too short or too long
Another common mistake people make when hanging curtains is not choosing the right length for their curtains. Curtains that are too short or too long for the window can look awkward and unbalanced. Curtains that are too short can expose the wall or floor below the window and make it look unfinished. Curtains that are too long can drag on the floor and collect dust and dirt.
How to fix it:
The rule of thumb is to measure your window height from the rod to the floor and choose your curtain length accordingly. There are three main options for curtain length:
- Just touching the floor: This is a classic and tailored look that works well for most rooms. To achieve this look, you should hem your curtains about half an inch above the floor.
- Puddling on the floor: This is a luxurious and romantic look that works well for bedrooms or living rooms. To achieve this look, you should hem your curtains about 10 to 15 inches longer than the floor.
- Hanging a few inches above the floor: This is a casual and relaxed look that works well for kitchens or bathrooms. To achieve this look, you should hem your curtains about 15 to 20 inches shorter than the floor.
Mistake #4: Choosing the wrong fabric or color for your curtains
Another common mistake people make when hanging curtains is not choosing the right fabric or color for their curtains. Curtains that are too heavy or too light for the room can affect how they hang and function. Curtains that are too dark or too bright for the room can clash with the rest of the decor and create a harsh contrast.
How to fix it:
The rule of thumb is to choose your curtain fabric and color based on your room size, shape, style, and function. Here are some tips to consider:
- For a large or sunny room, you might want to choose lighter fabrics and colors that can filter light and create a soft glow.
- For a small or dark room, you might want to choose heavier fabrics and colors that can block light and create a cozy atmosphere.
- For a formal or traditional room, you might want to choose rich fabrics and colors that can add elegance and sophistication.
- For a casual or modern room, you might want to choose simple fabrics and colors that can add freshness and simplicity.
The Bottom Line
Well aren’t you a decor diva, armed with insider tips to hang your curtains like a pro! Measure, choose, and hang—you’ve got this routine down pat and your windows will stun all season long.
Thanks for trusting your decor expert to set you straight on the important topic of curtain hanging. Follow these tips to refresh your space and give your home the stylish polish it deserves. Hang those curtains without fear, the results will transform your room from so-so to sensational in an instant.
Your curtains hold the key to an inviting space and a dramatic reveal. A few adjustments to measure and height and your room awakens, ready to make a dazzling first impression. So summon your inner stylist, break out the measuring tape, and get ready to fall in love with your home all over again. Your window to a gorgeous new look awaits—let the makeover begin!
