How To Convert Blinds To Curtains

Blinds are a practical and versatile window treatment that can block light, provide privacy, and save energy. However, sometimes you may want to change the look and feel of your room by adding curtains. Curtains can add color, texture, and style to your windows, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

But how do you convert blinds to curtains without making a mess or spending a fortune? Is it possible to hang curtains over blinds without drilling holes or damaging the walls?

The answer is yes! In this post, I will show you how to convert blinds to curtains in a simple and easy way. You will learn how to use a tension rod, drapery hooks, or a window cornice to hang curtains over blinds. You will also discover some tips and tricks to make your curtains look great and function well.

How to convert blinds to curtains?

To convert blinds to curtains, you need to choose a method that suits your window type, blind style, and curtain fabric. You can use a tension rod, drapery hooks, or a window cornice to hang curtains over blinds. You also need to measure your window, choose your curtain rod and fabric, and install your curtains.

Use a Tension Rod

A tension rod is one of the easiest and cheapest ways to convert blinds to curtains. A tension rod is a spring-loaded rod that can be adjusted to fit any window width. You can use it to hang curtains over blinds without drilling holes or making any permanent changes.

To use a tension rod, you need to:

• Remove the blinds from the window and measure the width.
• Cut your fabric to the appropriate width, allowing for seam allowances.
• Sew the fabric panels together, if needed, to create one long piece.
• Hem the bottom and sides of the fabric.
• Create a rod pocket at the top of the fabric by folding it over and sewing it along the edge.
• Purchase a tension rod that is slightly longer than your window width.
• Insert the tension rod through the rod pocket of the fabric.
• Adjust the length of the tension rod by twisting it until it fits snugly between the sides of the window frame.
• Hang the tension rod with the fabric over the blinds.

A tension rod is ideal for lightweight fabrics such as cotton, linen, or sheer. It is also great for windows that are not too wide or tall. However, a tension rod may not be strong enough to support heavy fabrics such as velvet or blackout. It may also sag or slip if the window is too wide or if the blinds are too bulky.

Use Drapery Hooks

Drapery hooks are another simple and inexpensive way to convert blinds to curtains. Drapery hooks are metal hooks that can be attached to the back of curtain panels. They can be used to hang curtains over blinds by hooking them into the existing clips or holes of the blinds.

To use drapery hooks, you need to:

• Remove the slats from the blind clips and store them safely (you may need to put them back when you move out).
• Measure your window and cut your fabric accordingly.
• Hem the bottom and sides of the fabric.
• Pin drapery hooks at even intervals along the top edge of the fabric at the back.
• Hook them into the holes or clips of the blind headrail.
• Adjust the fabric so that it hangs evenly.

Drapery hooks are suitable for medium-weight fabrics such as polyester, silk, or satin. They are also good for windows that have vertical blinds or horizontal blinds with small slats. However, drapery hooks may not work well with horizontal blinds with large slats or wooden blinds. They may also damage or bend the blind clips or headrail if they are too heavy or tight.

Use a Window Cornice

A window cornice is a decorative box that covers the top of a window. It can be used to hide the blind headrail and create a more finished look for your curtains. You can make your own window cornice out of cardboard, wood, or foam board and cover it with fabric.

To use a window cornice, you need to:

• Measure your window and cut your cornice material accordingly.
• Cover it with fabric using glue, staples, or nails.
• Attach curtain brackets or rods to the cornice using screws or adhesive.
• Hang your curtain panels from the brackets or rods.
• Place your cornice over the blind headrail and secure it with adhesive or screws.

A window cornice is perfect for adding some flair and personality to your curtains. You can choose any fabric, color, or pattern that matches your decor. You can also add some decorative panels or valances to the sides of the cornice for extra style. However, a window cornice may be more time-consuming and costly to make than other methods. It may also block some natural light or ventilation from the top of the window.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some tips and tricks to make your curtains look great and function well over your blinds:

• Choose a curtain fabric that complements your blinds and your room. For example, if you have white blinds, you can choose a colorful or patterned fabric for contrast. If you have dark or wooden blinds, you can choose a light or neutral fabric for balance.
• Choose a curtain rod that matches your curtain fabric and your window frame. For example, if you have a modern or minimalist room, you can choose a sleek metal rod. If you have a rustic or cozy room, you can choose a wooden rod.
• Choose a curtain length that suits your window and your preference. For example, if you want a casual or relaxed look, you can choose a curtain length that grazes the floor or puddles slightly. If you want a formal or elegant look, you can choose a curtain length that just touches the floor or hangs slightly above it.
• Choose a curtain style that suits your window and your preference. For example, if you want a simple or classic look, you can choose a plain or solid fabric with rod pocket or tab top headers. If you want a more decorative or fancy look, you can choose a printed or textured fabric with grommet or pinch pleat headers.
• Choose a curtain width that covers your window and your blinds completely. For example, if you have a 60-inch wide window with 2-inch wide blinds, you can choose a curtain width of at least 64 inches (60 + 2 x 2) to ensure full coverage.

Final Thoughts

Blinds are a practical and versatile window treatment that can block light, provide privacy, and save energy. However, sometimes you may want to change the look and feel of your room by adding curtains.

By following the methods and tips in this post, you can convert your blinds to curtains in a simple and easy way. You can use a tension rod, drapery hooks, or a window cornice to hang curtains over blinds. You can also measure your window, choose your curtain rod and fabric, and install your curtains.

By doing so, you can transform your windows and your room with color, texture, and style. You can enjoy the beauty and charm of curtains without sacrificing the functionality and convenience of blinds.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about converting blinds to curtains:

• How do I convert horizontal blinds to curtains?

You can convert horizontal blinds to curtains by using drapery hooks or a window cornice. Drapery hooks are metal hooks that can be attached to the back of curtain panels and hooked into the holes or clips of the blind headrail. A window cornice is a decorative box that covers the top of the window and hides the blind headrail.

• How do I convert vertical blinds to curtains?

You can convert vertical blinds to curtains by using drapery hooks or a tension rod. Drapery hooks are metal hooks that can be attached to the back of curtain panels and hooked into the clips of the vertical blind headrail. A tension rod is a spring-loaded rod that can be adjusted to fit any window width and hung over the vertical blind headrail.

• How do I convert wooden blinds to curtains?

You can convert wooden blinds to curtains by using drapery hooks or a window cornice. Drapery hooks are metal hooks that can be attached to the back of curtain panels and hooked into the holes of the wooden blind headrail. A window cornice is a decorative box that covers the top of the window and hides the wooden blind headrail.

Dale

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.