Curtain holdbacks are decorative accessories that can enhance the look and functionality of your curtains. They can help you create different styles and moods for your windows, as well as let in more light and air. However, placing curtain holdbacks can be tricky and confusing, especially if you don’t know how high, how wide, and how far apart they should be. Here are some steps on how to place curtain holdbacks on your wall.
The best way to place curtain holdbacks is to measure your curtains and your window, mark the position of the holdbacks on the wall, drill holes and attach the holdbacks with screws, and hook your curtains onto the holdbacks. You can use different types of holdbacks depending on the type and weight of your curtains. You can also use different methods of placing depending on the style and look of your curtains.
Measure Your Curtains and Your Window
The first step to placing curtain holdbacks is to measure your curtains and your window. This will help you determine how high, how wide, and how far apart your holdbacks should be.
To measure your curtains, use a tape measure to measure the length of one curtain panel from the top edge to the bottom edge. This is your curtain length.
To measure your window, use a tape measure to measure the width of the window frame from one end to the other. This is your window width.
Mark the Position of the Holdbacks on the Wall
The second step to placing curtain holdbacks is to mark the position of the holdbacks on the wall. This will help you align the holdbacks with the window and the curtains and drill holes correctly.
To mark the position of the holdbacks on the wall, use a pencil, a level, and a ruler or a tape measure. Start from one side of the window and work your way across.
- To mark how high your holdbacks should be, decide how high you want your curtains to hang from the floor. A common rule is to place them at least one third of the way up from the floor or close to the ceiling for a more dramatic look Measure this distance from the floor up and mark it on both sides of the window.
- To mark how wide your holdbacks should be, decide how wide you want your curtains to extend beyond the window frame. A common rule is to place them at least 3 inches away from the side of the window or up to 12 inches for a more luxurious look1 Measure this distance from each end of the window frame out and mark it on both sides of the window.
- To mark how far apart your holdbacks should be, decide how many holdbacks you need for your curtains. A common rule is to use one holdback for each curtain panel or two holdbacks for a single panel that splits in the middle2 Measure this distance by dividing your window width by the number of holdbacks you need and mark it evenly along your marked height line.
Drill Holes and Attach Holdbacks with Screws
The third step to placing curtain holdbacks is to drill holes and attach holdbacks with screws according to your marks. The method of drilling holes and attaching screws may vary depending on the type and size of your holdbacks.
To drill holes and attach screws, you need a drill, a drill bit, screws, anchors, a screwdriver, and a stepladder.
- To drill holes for standard holdbacks, which are metal or wood hooks or knobs that attach to the wall with screws, use a drill bit that matches the size of your screws. Drill holes at each mark on both sides of the window using a stepladder if needed. Insert anchors into each hole if you are drilling into drywall or plaster3
- To attach screws for standard holdbacks, use screws that match the size of your holdbacks and anchors. Align each holdback with its corresponding hole or holes on both sides of the window using a stepladder if needed. Insert screws through each holdback into each hole or anchor using a screwdriver. Tighten them until they are secure but not too tight.
- To drill holes for magnetic holdbacks, which are metal or plastic hooks or knobs that attach to metal plates on the wall with magnets, use a drill bit that matches the size of the screws that come with the holdbacks. Drill holes at each mark on both sides of the window using a stepladder if needed. Insert anchors into each hole if you are drilling into drywall or plaster4
- To attach screws for magnetic holdbacks, use screws that come with the holdbacks and anchors. Align each metal plate with its corresponding hole or holes on both sides of the window using a stepladder if needed. Insert screws through each metal plate into each hole or anchor using a screwdriver. Tighten them until they are secure but not too tight. Then, snap each holdback onto its corresponding metal plate with the magnets.
Hook Your Curtains onto the Holdbacks
The fourth and final step to placing curtain holdbacks is to hook your curtains onto the holdbacks. The method of hooking your curtains may vary depending on the type and style of your curtains.
To hook your curtains, you need your curtains, your holdbacks, and a stepladder.
- To hook standard curtains, which are curtains that have a rod pocket, a tab top, or grommets at the top edge, gather one curtain panel in your hand and pull it towards the side of the window. Hook it onto the holdback by looping the fabric over the hook or knob and letting it hang loosely. Repeat with the other curtain panel on the other side of the window.
- To hook pleated curtains, which are curtains that have pleats or folds at the top edge that are held together by hooks or pins, gather one curtain panel in your hand and pull it towards the side of the window. Hook it onto the holdback by inserting one of the hooks or pins into the hole or slot of the holdback and letting it hang loosely. Repeat with the other curtain panel on the other side of the window.
FAQs
- How do I measure my curtains for my holdbacks?
- To measure your curtains for your holdbacks, use a tape measure to measure the length of one curtain panel from the top edge to the bottom edge. This is your curtain length.
- How do I choose the right size of holdbacks for my curtains?
- To choose the right size of holdbacks for your curtains, check the weight and style of your curtains and compare it with the weight capacity and design of the holdback. They should be able to support your curtains without bending or breaking and complement your curtains without overpowering them.
- How do I adjust or remove my holdbacks if I make a mistake?
- To adjust or remove your holdbacks if you make a mistake, use a screwdriver to loosen or remove the screws that hold them in place. If you are using standard holdbacks, you may need to patch up or repaint the holes that you drilled on the wall. If you are using magnetic holdbacks, you may need to pry them off gently with a flathead screwdriver or a putty knife.
Final Thoughts
Placing curtain holdbacks on your wall can be an easy and fun way to enhance the look and functionality of your curtains. You can choose from different types of holdbacks depending on the type and weight of your curtains. You can also use different methods of placing depending on the style and look of your curtains. With these steps on how to place curtain holdbacks on your wall, 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.
