Curtains are not only functional but also decorative. They can add color, texture and style to any room, as well as control the amount of light and privacy you want. But what if you want to hang curtains from the ceiling instead of the wall? Maybe you have a bay window, a slanted ceiling, or a room divider that needs some curtains. Or maybe you just want to create a dramatic effect with floor-to-ceiling drapes. Whatever the reason, hanging curtains from the ceiling is not as hard as it sounds. In this post, we’ll show you how to suspend curtains from ceiling with two different methods: using a rod and brackets or using a track system. Follow these easy steps and you’ll be enjoying your new curtains in no time.
How to suspend curtains from ceiling: two simple methods
- To suspend curtains from ceiling, you need to measure the width and length of your window and decide on the type and length of curtains you want.
- You can use either a rod and brackets or a track system to hang your curtains from the ceiling. Both methods require drilling holes in the ceiling and installing hardware.
- You can also use hooks or knobs to hang curtains from the ceiling without drilling holes, but this method may not be as sturdy or durable as the others.
Method 1: Using a rod and brackets
Using a rod and brackets is a common way to hang curtains from the ceiling. You can choose from different types of rods, such as single or double, straight or curved, depending on your preference and window shape. You can also choose from different types of headings for your curtains, such as eyelet, tab top, pencil pleat, pinch pleat or wave.
Step 1: How to work out the width
The width of your curtains depends on the length of your rod. To measure it, use a steel tape measure (more accurate than a fabric one) and measure from end to end, excluding the finials (the decorative ends). This measurement is the width of each curtain panel.
Step 2: How to work out the length
The length of your curtains depends on how far you want them to drop. To measure it, use a steel tape measure and measure from the top of the rod to the desired drop point. Remember to subtract 0.5 – 1 inch (1.3 – 2.5 cm) for clearance.
Step 3: How to install the rod and brackets
To install the rod and brackets, you need to drill holes in the ceiling and attach the hardware with screws and anchors. Here’s how:
- Find rod brackets specifically made for the ceiling. Brackets meant for the wall will have a shallower “hook,” which may not work for the ceiling. You can find ones specifically for the ceiling online or in most home improvement stores.
- Measure and mark where you want the brackets to be. The brackets should come out 2 to 3 inches (5.1 to 7.6 cm) from the wall so the curtains aren’t right against the window. Then, you should place the brackets either right at the outer edges of the window or 2 to 3 inches (5.1 to 7.6 cm) past the ends of the window on either side. Mark where the brackets should go with a pencil.
- Drill a pilot hole that’s the width of the hollow wall anchors you’ll use. If your brackets don’t come with anchors and you have plaster ceilings, you need to use anchors to make sure your holes are sturdy enough to hold up your curtains. Screws work fine if you’re going into wood, but with plaster, you need something stronger.
- Insert an anchor into each hole and tap it gently with a hammer until it’s flush with the ceiling.
- Attach each bracket with screws through the holes in the bracket and into the anchors in the ceiling.
- Slide your curtain panels onto your rod and place it on top of your brackets.
Method 2: Using a track system
Using a track system is another way to hang curtains from the ceiling. This method works well for wide windows or room dividers that need multiple panels of curtains that can slide easily across the track. You can also choose from different types of headings for your curtains, such as eyelet, tab top, pencil pleat, pinch pleat or wave.
Step 1: How to work out the width
The width of your curtains depends on the length of your track. To measure it, use a steel tape measure (more accurate than a fabric one) and measure from end to end. This measurement is the width of each curtain panel.
Step 2: How to work out the length
The length of your curtains depends on how far you want them to drop. To measure it, use a steel tape measure and measure from the top of the track to the desired drop point. Remember to subtract 0.5 – 1 inch (1.3 – 2.5 cm) for clearance.
Step 3: How to install the track system
To install the track system, you need to drill holes in the ceiling and attach the hardware with screws and anchors. Here’s how:
- Find a track system that suits your needs. You can find different types of tracks, such as straight or curved, single or double, online or in most home improvement stores.
- Measure and mark where you want the track to be. The track should come out 2 to 3 inches (5.1 to 7.6 cm) from the wall so the curtains aren’t right against the window. Then, you should place the track either right at the outer edges of the window or 2 to 3 inches (5.1 to 7.6 cm) past the ends of the window on either side. Mark where the track should go with a pencil.
- Drill a pilot hole that’s the width of the hollow wall anchors you’ll use. If your track doesn’t come with anchors and you have plaster ceilings, you need to use anchors to make sure your holes are sturdy enough to hold up your curtains. Screws work fine if you’re going into wood, but with plaster, you need something stronger.
- Insert an anchor into each hole and tap it gently with a hammer until it’s flush with the ceiling.
- Attach each bracket with screws through the holes in the bracket and into the anchors in the ceiling.
- Slide your curtain panels onto your track with hooks or loops and place it on top of your brackets.
FAQs
- How do I hang curtains from a slanted ceiling? If your ceiling is slanted, you can either hang your curtains parallel to the slant or parallel to the window frame, depending on your preference and the availability of wall space. There are also specialist rods and extender brackets that can work with slanted ceilings. If your window is also slanted, you can use tabs to hang your curtain from a slanted line of hooks or knobs at the ceiling and secure it with a tassel tieback.
- How do I hang curtains from the ceiling without drilling holes? If you don’t want to drill holes in your ceiling, you can use hooks or knobs that have adhesive backs that stick to the ceiling. You can find these online or in most home improvement stores. However, this method may not be as sturdy or durable as drilling holes and using anchors, especially if your curtains are heavy or long.
- How do I choose the right curtains for my window? When choosing curtains for your window, you need to consider several factors, such as the size, shape, style and function of your window, as well as your personal preference and budget. You can choose from different types of fabrics, colors, patterns and headings for your curtains, depending on the effect you want to create. You can also layer different types of curtains, such as sheer and blackout, for more versatility and control over light and privacy.
Wrapping up
That’s it! You’ve learned how to suspend curtains from ceiling with two different methods. Now you can choose from our wide range of fabrics and styles and order your curtains online or in store. Don’t forget to check out our accessories and tiebacks to complete your look. Happy curtain hanging!
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.
