How To Choose and Hang Curtains

 
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With the right tools and some planning, you can hang new curtains to freshen up your home's decor.

Tools & Materials

Tools

• Hammer
• Ladder
• Level (at least 2 feet long)
• Power Drill
• Safety Glasses
• Screwdriver
• Stud Finder
• Tape Measure

Materials

• Curtains
• Curtain Hardware
• Curtain Rod
• Drywall Anchors

Product costs, availability and item numbers may vary online or by market.

Before you buy your curtains, snap a photo of your windows. Measure the width at the top, center and bottom of the window frame. Make a sketch marking the largest measurement. Also mark nearby vents, light switches and electrical outlets so that you don't cover them.
Curtains
The size of your curtains makes a difference in the room's decor:

• 63-inch curtains usually sit at or just below the sill.
• 84-inch curtains sit at or just above the floor.
• 95-inch curtains can be pooled on the floor for a more dramatic appearance.

You may need longer curtains if you're mounting the rod near the ceiling. For width, both curtains combined should be at least twice the width of the window and trim.
Rods
Along with curtain size, the rod size and placement can make a difference too. Rods that extend 2-3 inches beyond the frame give a traditional look allowing the curtains to partially cover the window when open. Extending the rod 10-15 inches beyond the trim reveals the entire window, making it look wider.

Hang the rod 6 inches above the window frame for a standard look. Or use extra-long curtains and hang the rod near the ceiling to make the room appear taller. When you're figuring out the curtain and rod placement, remember to account for how the curtain hangs on the rod (hooks, rings, tabs, grommets or pockets). If you're layering curtains, keep in mind that double-rod brackets might extend farther from the wall.

Finials
Check the package as to whether the finials are included in the total rod length.

Good to Know

As soon as you get home, remove curtains from the package and lay them across a bed to allow creases to relax. If necessary, press them smooth with a warm iron or steamer (depending on the fabric) before hanging.
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