Swag curtains are a great way to add some elegance and sophistication to your windows. Pleating a swag curtain can seem daunting, but with the right tools and techniques, it’s actually quite simple. In this post, we’ll walk you through the steps to pleat a swag curtain like a pro.
Step 1: Choose the Right Rod and Brackets
The first step in pleating a swag curtain is to choose the right rod and brackets. If you’re just going to have the swag over the window without any curtains, single curtain rod brackets are the way to go. Single brackets will hold up 1 curtain rod, which is all you need for the swag. If you want to hang up regular curtains that you can open and close along with the swag, you’ll need to use double brackets.
Step 2: Measure the Width of the Window
Next, measure the width of the window to find out how long of a rod to get. To measure the width of the window, take measuring tape and measure from the outer edge of the window frame on the left side of the window to the outer edge on the right side of the window. Get a rod that’s at least 2 inches (5.1 cm) longer than the width.
Use a decorative or cafe curtain rod for your swag. Both decorative and cafe curtain rods can hold a swag, whether it’s scarf-style or made with a rod pocket. Avoid using a traverse curtain rod for your swag.
Mark 4–8 inches (10–20 cm) above your window on either side. This is the level you’ll hang the curtain brackets at. The higher you hang the brackets, the larger your window will appear.
Slide the swag onto the curtain rod if it has a rod pocket. If it’s scarf-style, wrap the fabric around the curtain rod so it drapes like you want it to.
What type of brackets should I use if I want to hang curtains with my swag?
If you want to hang up regular curtains that you can open and close along with the swag, you’ll need to use double brackets.
How long should my curtain rod be?
Get a rod that’s at least 2 inches (5.1 cm) longer than the width of your window.
What type of curtain rod should I use for my swag?
Use a decorative or cafe curtain rod for your swag.
Wrapping Up Pleating a swag curtain may seem intimidating at first, but with these simple steps, you’ll be able to create beautiful, elegant window treatments in no time. Remember to choose the right rod and brackets, measure your window carefully, and take your time when installing everything. With a little patience and practice, you’ll be pleating swags like a pro in no time.
Dale is the colorful mind behind HuetifulHomes.com, where he shows you how to create a home that is as fun and fabulous as you are. He has a passion for color and a knack for DIY, with years of interior design experience he shares his tips and tricks on how to create a home that reflects your personality and style. He believes that color is the key to happiness, and he wants to help you make your home more Huetiful.