Curtains are a great way to add style, privacy, and insulation to your windows. But before you can hang them, you need to pin them. Pinning curtains is the process of attaching hooks or pins to the back of the curtain fabric or tape, which allows you to hang them on a rod, wire, or track. Pinning curtains can be tricky and time-consuming, but with some tips and tricks, you can do it like a pro. Here are some steps on how to pin curtains.
The best way to pin curtains is to lay them flat on a clean surface, measure and mark the position of the hooks or pins, insert them into the fabric or tape, and adjust them as needed. You can use different types of hooks or pins depending on the type and weight of your curtains. You can also use different methods of pinning depending on the style and look of your curtains.
Choose the Right Hooks or Pins
The first step to pinning curtains is to choose the right hooks or pins for your curtains. There are different types of hooks or pins available in the market, and they vary in size, shape, and function. Some of the most common ones are:
- Metal pin hooks are regular hooks with a sharp point at one end and a loop at the other. They are suitable for light to medium weight curtains that have a header tape or a pleated top. They are easy to insert and remove and can create different types of pleats depending on how you space them.
- Plastic pin hooks are similar to metal pin hooks but made of plastic. They are suitable for light weight curtains that have a header tape or a pleated top. They are less likely to damage or rust the fabric but may not be very sturdy or durable.
- Drapery pins are small metal pins with a flat head at one end and a hook at the other. They are suitable for medium to heavy weight curtains that have a buckram or a stiffened top. They are more discreet and secure than hooks but may be harder to insert and adjust.
- Clip rings are metal rings with clips attached to them. They are suitable for any type of curtains that do not have a header tape or a pleated top. They are very easy to use and can create a casual and relaxed look but may not be very elegant or smooth.
Lay the Curtains Flat
The second step to pinning curtains is to lay them flat on a clean and smooth surface, such as a table, a floor, or a bed. Make sure the surface is large enough to accommodate the entire length and width of your curtains. Also, make sure the surface is free of dust, dirt, or stains that may transfer to your curtains.
Lay your curtains face down on the surface, with the lining or the back side facing up. Smooth out any wrinkles or creases on the fabric and align the edges neatly. If your curtains have a header tape or a pleated top, make sure it is visible and accessible.
Measure and Mark the Position of the Hooks or Pins
The third step to pinning curtains is to measure and mark the position of the hooks or pins on your curtains. This will ensure that your curtains hang evenly and symmetrically on your rod, wire, or track.
To measure and mark the position of the hooks or pins, you need a tape measure, a pencil, and a paper. First, measure the distance from the top edge of your curtain rod, wire, or track to where you want your curtains to end. This is your desired curtain length.
Then, measure the distance from the top edge of your curtain fabric or tape to where you want your hooks or pins to go. This is your hook drop.
Next, subtract your hook drop from your desired curtain length. This is your finished curtain length.
Finally, mark your finished curtain length on your curtain fabric or tape using a pencil. This is where you will insert your hooks or pins.
Insert the Hooks or Pins into the Fabric or Tape
The fourth step to pinning curtains is to insert the hooks or pins into the fabric or tape according to your marks. The method of inserting the hooks or pins may vary depending on their type and size.
- To insert metal pin hooks into fabric with header tape or pleated top, start from one end of your curtain and work your way across. Position each hook with the point facing down and the loop facing out. Push the point through the fabric or tape at your mark and slide it along the back of the pleat until it is secure. Repeat with the rest of the hooks, spacing them evenly and leaving some space at the ends for the rod, wire, or track brackets1
- To insert plastic pin hooks into fabric with header tape or pleated top, follow the same steps as metal pin hooks but be more gentle and careful as plastic hooks may break or bend easily.
- To insert drapery pins into fabric with buckram or stiffened top, start from one end of your curtain and work your way across. Position each pin with the flat head facing up and the hook facing down. Push the flat head through the fabric or buckram at your mark and slide it along the top edge until it is secure. Repeat with the rest of the pins, spacing them evenly and leaving some space at the ends for the rod, wire, or track brackets.
- To insert clip rings into fabric without header tape or pleated top, start from one end of your curtain and work your way across. Position each ring with the clip facing up and the ring facing down. Open the clip and attach it to the fabric at your mark, making sure it is secure. Repeat with the rest of the rings, spacing them evenly and leaving some space at the ends for the rod, wire, or track brackets.
Adjust the Hooks or Pins as Needed
The fifth and final step to pinning curtains is to adjust the hooks or pins as needed to make sure your curtains hang properly and look good. You can do this by:
- Checking that all the hooks or pins are inserted at the same level and distance from each other.
- Checking that all the hooks or pins are facing the same direction and are not twisted or tangled.
- Checking that all the hooks or pins are attached to the fabric or tape securely and are not loose or falling off.
- Checking that all the pleats or folds are even and symmetrical and are not bunched up or sagging.
- Checking that all the edges and corners of your curtains are aligned and neat and are not crooked or frayed.
If you find any problems with your hooks or pins, you can remove them and reinsert them in a better position or replace them with new ones if they are damaged or broken.
FAQs
- How many hooks or pins do I need for my curtains?
- The number of hooks or pins you need for your curtains depends on their width, length, weight, and style. A general rule is to use one hook or pin for every 4 to 6 inches of curtain width. However, you may need more or less depending on how full or flat you want your curtains to look. You can also use more hooks or pins for heavier curtains to support their weight better.
- How do I hang my curtains after pinning them?
- To hang your curtains after pinning them, you need a rod, wire, or track, brackets, screws, a drill, a level, and a stepladder. First, mark the position of the brackets on the wall above your window using a pencil and a level. Make sure the brackets are aligned and level with each other. Then, drill holes on the marks and attach the brackets to the wall using screws. Next, slide your curtains onto the rod, wire, or track using their hooks, pins, or rings and place it on the brackets. Finally, adjust your curtains to make them even and smooth out any wrinkles.
- How do I clean my curtains after pinning them?
- To clean your curtains after pinning them, you need to check the care label on the fabric and follow the instructions. Some fabrics are machine-washable, while others are dry-clean only. If you are washing your curtains in a machine, remove all the hooks, pins, or rings first and use a gentle cycle and cold water. Avoid using bleach or fabric softener. If you are dry-cleaning your curtains, take them to a professional cleaner and inform them of any stains or damages. After washing or dry-cleaning your curtains, hang them back on the rod, wire, or track while they are still damp to prevent wrinkles.
Final Thoughts
Pinning curtains can be a tedious and challenging task, but with some patience and practice, you can do it like a pro. You can choose from different types of hooks or pins depending on your curtains’ type and weight. You can also use different methods of pinning depending on your curtains’ style and look. With these steps on how to pin curtains, you can make your windows more beautiful and functional.
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.
