Curtains can make a big difference in the look and feel of your room. They can add color, texture, pattern, privacy, and warmth to your space. But if they don’t hang right, they can also ruin the whole effect. Curtains that are too short, too long, too wrinkled, or too billowy can make your windows look awkward and unappealing.
So how do you get curtains to hang right? There are some simple tips and tricks that can help you achieve a professional and polished look with your curtains. Here are some of them:
How do you get curtains to hang right?
You can get curtains to hang right by following these steps:
- Measure your windows and choose the right size and style of curtains
- Iron your curtains to remove any wrinkles and creases
- Install your curtain rods and hardware at the correct height and position
- Hang your curtains with the appropriate method, such as rod pockets, hanging pins, or curtain rings
- Add some weight to the bottom corners and hem of your curtains if needed
- Adjust and fluff your curtains until they look neat and even
Measure Your Windows And Choose The Right Size And Style Of Curtains
The first step to getting curtains to hang right is to measure your windows and choose the right size and style of curtains for them. You will need to measure the width and length of your window, as well as the distance from the floor to the window sill or frame.
The width of your curtain rod should be about 6 to 12 inches longer than the width of your window. This will allow for some overlap and fullness when you close your curtains. The length of your curtain panel should depend on how long you want your curtains to be. You can choose from three common lengths:
- Sill length: Your curtains should just touch the window sill or stop slightly above it. This is a good option for small windows or windows that are above furniture or radiators.
- Below-sill length: Your curtains should hang about 6 inches below the window sill or stop at the top of the floor molding. This is a good option for medium-sized windows or windows that are not above furniture or radiators.
- Floor length: Your curtains should touch the floor or pool slightly on it. This is a good option for large windows or windows that are the focal point of the room.
The style of your curtains should match the style of your room and your personal preference. You can choose from different types of fabrics, colors, patterns, and headers. Headers are the top part of the curtain that attaches to the rod or hardware. Some common types of headers are:
- Rod pocket: The fabric has a pocket that slides over the rod. This creates a casual and gathered look.
- Hanging pins: The fabric has small hooks or clips that attach to rings on the rod. This creates a formal and pleated look.
- Curtain rings: The fabric has holes or loops that hook onto rings on the rod. This creates a simple and modern look.
Iron Your Curtains To Remove Any Wrinkles And Creases
The next step to getting curtains to hang right is to iron them to remove any wrinkles and creases that may have formed during packaging, shipping, or storage. Wrinkles and creases can make your curtains look sloppy and cheap.
To iron your curtains, follow these steps:
- Read the care label on your curtains to check if they are iron-safe and what temperature setting to use.
- Lay your curtains flat on a clean surface or hang them on a rod or a shower curtain.
- Use a steam iron or a spray bottle with water to dampen your curtains slightly.
- Iron your curtains from top to bottom, following the grain of the fabric and avoiding any seams or embellishments.
- Hang your curtains immediately after ironing them to prevent new wrinkles from forming.
Install Your Curtain Rods And Hardware At The Correct Height And Position
The third step to getting curtains to hang right is to install your curtain rods and hardware at the correct height and position on your wall or ceiling. The height and position of your rods and hardware will affect how your curtains will drape and frame your window.
To install your curtain rods and hardware, follow these steps:
- Mark where you want to place your rods and hardware on your wall or ceiling. Use a tape measure, a level, and a pencil to make sure your marks are even and aligned.
- Drill holes where you marked and insert wall anchors if needed. Use a drill, a drill bit, and a hammer to make sure your holes are secure and stable.
- Attach your rods and hardware to the wall or ceiling. Use a screwdriver, screws, and brackets to make sure your rods and hardware are firmly attached and level.
- Adjust your rods and hardware as needed. Use a level, a tape measure, and a pencil to make sure your rods and hardware are at the right height and position.
Hang Your Curtains With The Appropriate Method
The fourth step to getting curtains to hang right is to hang them with the appropriate method according to the type of header they have. Different types of headers require different ways of hanging them on the rod or hardware.
To hang your curtains with the appropriate method, follow these steps:
- If your curtains have rod pockets, slide the rod through the pocket on the back of the fabric. Make sure the fabric is evenly distributed on the rod and the front side is facing out.
- If your curtains have hanging pins, attach the pins to the back of the fabric at equal intervals along the header. Hook the pins onto the rings on the rod and make sure the fabric is evenly distributed on the rings and the front side is facing out.
- If your curtains have curtain rings, hook the rings onto the holes or loops on the top of the fabric. Slide the rings onto the rod and make sure the fabric is evenly distributed on the rings and the front side is facing out.
Add Some Weight To The Bottom Corners And Hem Of Your Curtains If Needed
The final step to getting curtains to hang right is to add some weight to the bottom corners and hem of your curtains if needed. Some curtains may be too light or too stiff to hang straight and may need some extra weight to help them drape nicely and avoid billowing out.
To add some weight to your curtains, follow these steps:
- Choose some drapery weights that are suitable for your type of fabric. You can buy them from any store or online retailer that sells curtain accessories. Alternatively, you can use some coins or washers as weights.
- Sew or glue the weights to the inside of the bottom corners and hem of your curtains. Make sure they are hidden from view and evenly spaced along the edge of the fabric.
- Hang your curtains again and check how they look. Adjust or remove the weights as needed until you are happy with how they hang.
Adjust And Fluff Your Curtains Until They Look Neat And Even
The last step to getting curtains to hang right is to adjust and fluff them until they look neat and even. You may need to tweak your curtains a bit after hanging them to make sure they look their best.
To adjust and fluff your curtains, follow these steps:
- Arrange your curtains on the rod or hardware as you like. You can spread them out for more coverage or pull them back for more light. You can also tie them back with some curtain ties or holdbacks for a different look.
- Fluff your curtains by gently shaking them from side to side or running your hands along them. This will help remove any wrinkles or creases that may have formed during hanging and give them some volume and shape.
- Check your curtains from different angles and distances. Make sure they are hanging straight, evenly, and symmetrically. Make any final adjustments as needed until you are satisfied with how they look.
FAQs
How do I choose the right curtain rod for my curtains?
The right curtain rod for your curtains depends on several factors, such as:
- The type of header your curtains have: Different types of headers require different types of rods or hardware. For example, rod pocket curtains need a simple rod that can slide through the pocket, while hanging pin curtains need a rod with rings that can hook onto the pins.
- The style of your curtains: Different styles of curtains may look better with different types of rods or hardware. For example, formal or traditional curtains may look better with a decorative rod with finials, while casual or modern curtains may look better with a simple or sleek rod.
- The size of your window: Different sizes of windows may need different sizes of rods or hardware. For example, large windows may need a longer or thicker rod that can support more weight, while small windows may need a shorter or thinner rod that can fit in tight spaces.
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.
