How you hang your curtains can change the look and feel of the room. Follow our guide to learn how to hang curtains, and spruce up your space in no time.

Before You Buy

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Before you buy new curtains, do a few simple measurements to ensure you are choosing the best curtain length and width for your windows.

How to Determine Curtain Length

Curtains come in different lengths, ranging from less than 63" to more than 120". Shorter curtains lend a more casual feel, while longer curtains are a more elegant choice. Typically, a curtain rod is mounted 4" – 6" above your window frame. However, to make your room and window appear taller, you can hang curtains anywhere between 6" – 12" above the window frame.

To determine proper curtain length, measure from the sill or floor to the location of where you would like to place your curtain rod. For your curtains to brush the floor, measure from the drapery rod or ring to the floor and subtract half an inch. If you want it to break the floor, add 1" – 3" to your length measurement. If you want it to pool the floor, add 4" – 6" to your length measurement.

How to Determine Curtain Width

The curtain rod should extend 4" – 6" beyond each side of your window frame. This will make the window appear larger, allow the maximum amount of light through, and provide privacy by completely covering the window’s edges. To determine curtain width, measure the width of your window, add 4" – 6", then multiply that number by 2.5. This will allow your curtains to pleat while also covering your entire window.

Tip!

Take note of any immovable elements like outlets and light switches, and avoid covering them. If there is no other place to put the curtain, you can use tiebacks.
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How to Hang Curtains

(Shop this image: patterned curtains, beige upholstered dining chairs, faux potted trees, lantern-style chandeliers, and decorative vases).

What You Will Need

Tape measure
Pencil
Level
Screws
Screwdriver or drill
Stud finder
Drywall anchors
Curtain rod
Brackets

Step 1: Install the Brackets
Take your tape measure and mark 2" out from the top left and right corners of the window sill. Then measure up from these marks 4" – 6". This is where the brackets will be installed. Use a level to make sure the bracket is even. Use your stud finder to see if the bracket location is on top of a wall stud. If your marks line up on studs, use a screwdriver or drill to screw in the brackets. If your marks do not sit on a stud, install wall anchors so the wall can support the weight of your curtains. To do this, drill a pilot hole and then install the anchor.

If the window is wider than four feet, you will need to install at least three brackets: right, left, and center.
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Step 2: Thread Curtain Through Rod
If your curtain rod comes with finials (decorative end pieces), twist or pull them from the ends of the rod. Then thread the rod through the curtain’s pocket or grommet. If your curtain requires rings or hooks, secure them to the curtain’s fabric along the top. We recommend placing a clip ring along every 4" – 6" of fabric.
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Step 3: Install the Curtain Rod
Depending on your bracket type, you will either have to screw the rod to the brackets or place the rod into the hooks.

Step 4: Replace Finials
If your curtain rod has finials, place them back onto the end of the curtain rods.

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