How to Hang Curtains Like a Pro

Curtains are one of the most impactful decorating elements you can add to a room — in fact, we think they complete a room. They help control the light, lend privacy and warmth, affirm your style, and add texture and color. A set of curtains makes your home look instantly more pulled together (and makes a space look more grown up, too).

Hanging curtains is a totally DIY-friendly project, but there are some tips and tricks that will help you get the most out of your window treatments. Want to know how to hang your curtains to really make a statement in your home? Here are the steps, plus some tips to avoid common mistakes that people make — so your curtains look as good as possible.

First, gather everything you’ll need to hang your curtains. You’ll need:

• Curtains
• Curtain rod
• Screws
• Drywall anchors (optional)
• Drill
• Level
• Tape Measure
• Pencil

Don’t go too narrow: Select a curtain rod that is wider than the width of your window. This will allow enough room for the panels to hang on either side of your window and will force the panels to cover the window at all times. It also tricks your eye into thinking the window is wider than it actually is. The rule of thumb is to go 8 to 12 inches wider than your window.

Do use enough fabric: You want your curtains to feel full, not skimpy. If you actually plan to close your curtains on occasion, the curtains should be roughly between two and two-and-a-half times the width of the actual window.

Do choose appropriate fabric: Choose curtain fabric that suits both the mood of the room and its function. Lighter blends feel casual and filter light, while denser fabrics feel more formal and provide more privacy. Try something like heavy velvet for drafty windows or linen for a breezier feel during the summer. You can even DIY your own curtains for the perfect look.

Remember, a good rule of thumb is to place them 4 to 6 inches above the top of your window frame — if you have the space. This will increase visual appeal by making your window look larger, which will, in turn, make the room itself look larger. Use a pencil to mark where the rod should go, but draw lightly in case you need to make adjustments.

Don’t go too short: Unless they’re cafe curtains, too-short drapes like the ones above are a little like high water pants: not a good look. A little puddling at the bottom (as seen in various shots below) can give your drapes a romantic feel. If you don’t want to worry about the bottoms of your drapes getting dirty, then stop the fabric just before they hit the floor — a little under an inch is good.

Your rod should be about 8 to 12 inches wider than your window, so make a mark about 4 to 6 inches beyond the window frame on each side. Just like you want to hang your curtains higher than your window, putting them out wide makes the window look wider and the room look more spacious.

The exception for hanging curtains wide is when you are dealing with corner windows or multiple windows spaced closely together, as this can make your room feel cluttered and more cramped.

Do use a template: A simple template ensures you hang the curtain rod at the same height for every window, and that your rods won’t be crooked. The one above was made using a couple of pieces of cardboard and saved time otherwise spent measuring from the corner of the windows. (Use a level, too, especially if you live in an old house with less-than-perfect walls.) And if you’re a renter, check out these no-drill tips for hanging curtains without damaging your walls!

Install your first bracket by screwing it into the wall. For heavy curtains and rods, first install drywall anchors to make sure that they’re secure enough to support the weight.

Use a level to ensure that your second bracket is even with the first, and then install it using the same method.

Curtains can be hung using rings, clips, hooks, or grommets. While grommet curtains only leave you one hanging option, fabric panels can be hung multiple ways for different effects. If you’re shopping in store, don’t be afraid to bring your curtains and a photo of your rod and the installation area to help you determine which option will look the best in your room.

Once your curtains are on the rod, you’re ready to rock! Place the curtain-dangling rod onto the brackets and secure in place with screws or finials. Enjoy the beautiful rewards of your labors.