6 expert-approved steps for stunning drapery the first time.
If possible, hiring a professional is the way to go.
I always recommend having a professional to hang draperies, agrees interior designerJenn Cameron.
Credit: Hector Manuel Sanchez; Styling: Page Mullins
If youre a DIY-er at heart (or at budget), weve got your back.
Heres how to hang curtains like a pro.
First, use a tape measure to determine the width of your window.
Credit:Courtesy Stephanie Pohlman Designs
Jot that number down for safe keeping.
Rather than measuring the exact height of your window, youre going to start your measurement on the ground.
Identify the distance between the floor and the top of the window trim.
Credit: Hector Manuel Sanchez; Styling: Elly Poston Cooper
Remember that number, too.
Pohlman reveals that finding window treatments with the right dimensions is often a tough hurdle.
That will make your room feel so much taller.
Width:Simply double the width of your window to ensure sufficient coverage.
This should be the perfect amount of drapery to stylishly block out any light.
The curtain rod also has to be properly sized to fit the window in question.
Pohlman and Abernathy both reveal that they prefer French return curtain rods for their simplicity and reliability.
Sturdy,quality materialsincluding the curtain rod, brackets, and anchors are essential for a secure installation.
This mark indicates the height for your curtain brackets.
Most types of curtain rods require a bracket every three feet.
Use a level to verify that your marks are even.
These marks will serve as a guide for perfect, precise curtain rod placement in the next step.
Drill holes at the marked positions for the brackets, then insert plastic anchors.
Finally, its time to put the curtain rod in place.
Alternatively, use curtain rings or clips to fasten the drapery onto the rod.
Now, it’s worth noting that the order of steps may need adjustment in certain scenarios.
Meanwhile, Pohlman recommends layering shades.
We like to recommend layering your window treatments, she says.
Adding a tie back also really gives you that light and bright airy feel.
To maintain your window treatments over time, periodically check and replace loose screws as needed.
If the curtain rod begins to sag in the middle, its probably time for a replacement.
Keep curtain rings sliding smoothly by lubricating them with dry silicone spray likeWD-40.
