However, you do need to keep at least a 12-inch distance above your baseboard heater to avoid the risk of a fire. If long curtains are a must, make sure to hang them at least 3 inches in front of your heater. Or, you can choose to use treatments that fit your window exactly, such as shades or blinds.
Full Answer
Do you need curtains with window treatments?
To hear most designers say it, window treatments are the jewelry of the home, the finishing touch without which no good room is complete. But, as with every rule—design and elsewhere—there are exceptions. If you're questioning whether your windows need curtains, we've gathered some experts to make the case.
Is it hard to hang curtains on a wall?
Sure, hanging curtains can be tricky, but you can achieve a polished, perfectly draped look by following our tips, including how high to hang curtains, what size curtains to buy, and how to hang curtain rods. With the right measurements and hanging techniques, you can make the most of your window treatments and complete a room in style.
How do you hang curtains on a window frame?
From there, use a pencil and tape measure to mark curtain bracket placements six inches from the outside edge of the window frame to allow plenty of natural light. Use a screwdriver to install curtain brackets; make sure the sides are even using a level. Place curtains on the rod, then hang curtains.
Should I iron my curtains before hanging?
If you are hanging curtains with large grommets at the top or even tab-top panels where a lot of the rod will be showing, make sure to get a rod that is substantial-looking and attractive. While ironing is a chore most of us would happily avoid, this is one case where you should not skip it.
Is it OK to put curtains over blinds?
We often get asked the question 'do curtains and blinds work together? ' The answer is, for the most part, 'yes' – when paired, the two can bring out a flexible décor and ensure adequate blocking of light and privacy control.
Do and donts of hanging curtains?
Do's and Don'ts of Hanging CurtainsDO: Hang Curtains to the Floor. Curtains look sophisticated and elegant when they hang all the way to the floor. ... DON'T: Stop at the Windowsill. ... DO: Invest in Good Hardware. ... DON'T: Forget to Measure. ... DO: Have Fun With Layering. ... DON'T: Skimp On Fabric.
What are the rules for hanging curtains?
As a general rule, drapes will be open during the day, so make sure the curtain rod extends at least four inches on each side of the window's inside frame. To create the illusion of a wider window, extend the rod up to 10 inches beyond the window's frame.
Do you hang curtains on window frame?
How High to Hang Curtains. A rule of thumb (from Architectural Digest) is that curtains should be hung between four to six inches above the window frame, so install your curtain rod accordingly. When you hang the curtain rod high, it will make the window appear taller.
Are window treatments out of style?
Modern types of window treatments have become more and more popular over the year. But, even though curtains are from the past, they will never go out of style. They are classic window coverings that can adapt to modern design and style.
Should curtains touch the ceiling?
Your best move is to hang curtains within 8 inches of the top of the window frame. For very tall windows, which are popular in many modern homes, that means placing the rod as close to the ceiling as possible—in fact, you might want to install rods designed to actually hang from the ceiling.
How do you hang curtains like a professional?
How To Hang a Curtain Like A ProHang them high. Especially in rooms with low ceilings, be sure to hang your curtain rod as high as possible. ... Hang them wide. ... Hang them in the right length. ... Hang the right amount of panels. ... Hang the right style of panel.
Are sheer curtains out of style 2020?
Sheers are a must in 2020 Not only do sheer curtains look elegant but they also offer a light breezy feel and are perfect for living rooms, bedrooms and kitchen windows. Curtains crafted of sheer fabric can be used separately or behind heavier drapes for an appealing view.
Should full length curtains touch the floor?
All it needs is to let the curtain hem reach about 3/8 to ½ inches above the floor. Besides being easy to measure and design, it is also easiest to vacuum and maintain. If you are looking for curtains that don't require too much maintenance, this can be an excellent option for you.
How do you hang curtains on a window frame?
The higher the curtain rod, the taller the window will appear, so fix your curtain rod closer to the ceiling than the top of your window, if you can. One rule of thumb is that they should sit 4-6 inches above the window frame.
Should a curtain cover the whole window?
Curtain rods generally extend around two to three inches beyond the width of the window. This way, you will let in enough light when you spread your curtains. When you open the curtains, they will still slightly cover the window. This is the standard look for most curtains.
How far past the window should curtains hang?
General Installation Recommendations When installing curtain rods, hang the rod so that it extends at least 3 or 4 inches beyond the window on each side. This allows your curtains to overlap both the window and the wall to prevent light from leaking in around the window's edges.
What is a good window treatment?
A good window treatment adds style, but a great window treatment becomes part of your home's architecture. When choosing blinds or indoor shutters, splurge for wood or faux wood varieties with wide slats. These upscale treatments may cost more up front, but they can actually increase the value of your home in the long run.
How far should curtains fall in 2020?
Keep in mind that, when open, your curtains shouldn't fall more than 2 inches inside the frame on each side.
How to make drapes look tailored?
For a tailored look, drapes should puddle slightly, kiss the floor or hover a half-inch above. The same goes for cafe curtains in a windowsill. High waters weren't cool in high school and they definitely aren't cool in your living room. Imagine the window above dressed with floor-length curtains hung high and wide.
Can you go overboard with window treatments?
DON'T : Go Overboard. Too much of anything is usually a bad thing, and window treatments are no exception. The more fabric you put on a window, the less light will shine through and the smaller your space will look. Try a few different layering styles before you commit. DO: Take Curtains to the Floor.
Do plastic blinds break?
Plastic blinds break and discolor easily, and they detract from the overall attractiveness of your space. Window treatments are visible from the inside and out, like these contemporary blinds, and a canny choice will enhance the home’s exterior color scheme and architecture.
How wide should curtains be?
Traditionally, you should be looking at 2 to 2½ times the width of the window for the fullness of the drapes .So if your window is 4 feet wide, the ungathered panels should be at least 8 feet wide. If the curtains are just framing the window and won’t be opened, you only need 1-1/2 times the width of the window.
What is drapery style?
The Drapery style or type of pleats. There are many drapery styles to choose from box pleat, pinch pleat, pencil pleat and yes many more (will leave it for another blog) Decide your look very carefully before going in for elaborate pleats and folds.
What does it mean when curtains are closed?
When the curtains are closed, you want to make sure they still have some waves in them to give them an appearance of fullness. Measure the width of your window and multiply that by 2 or 2.5 to calculate the perfect width for panels with the appropriate fullness.
What is important when selecting window treatments?
Although the color and pattern of your curtains are certainly important and play a huge role in the feel of your space, the size and placement of the curtain panels are equally important. Below I’ve outlined some of the biggest mistakes we see homeowners making with their curtains and ideas to easily fix those mistakes.
Why do we use custom window treatments?
For most of our interior design projects, we specify custom window treatments. There are two main reasons we usually go the custom route with our clients, the first is the size of the window and the second is that our clients have hired us to create a custom home for them. With custom window treatments not only can we customize the sizes but we have an unlimited choice of fabrics and decorative trims as well as lots of options for pleat styles, this allows us to create something truly unique.
Do curtains need to be floor length?
Curtains look and function best when they are floor length. Although some pants look great cropped at the ankle, the same does not hold true for your window treatments. If you’re using ready-made curtain panels and they don't have the exact length that you need, purchase longer panels and have them hemmed to the correct height. You don't need a workroom to hem them, your local tailor can do the job. There are three floor-length options:
Do curtain rods cover the window?
The curtain rod should completely cover the window frame and then extend past the window trim on both sides. Going wider than the window with the curtain rod makes the window appear wider. When the curtains are open, the panels can stack in front of the wall, rather than in front of the window, which allows more natural light into your room.
What are the pitfalls to avoid when considering curtain hardware?
These are some common pitfalls to avoid when considering curtain hardware: Flimsy rod: Do not get a rod that is not sturdy enough to support the weight of your curtains, resulting in a sag in the middle. Short rod: Do not use a rod that is not long enough, which results in curtains that cover most of your window.
How to measure for curtains?
These are the measurements to jot down before heading to the store: 1 Top to bottom: Starting a few inches down from the ceiling, measure all the way down to the floor to achieve the correct curtain length. 2 Window width: Measure the width of your window, then multiply this number by 2 or 2.5 to achieve fullness and avoid the "bedsheet look." For panels, this means that if your window is 36 inches wide, you should look for panels that actually total about 72 inches or more in width. The same is true for valances if you want them to have a gathered look. Unlike panels, however, valances can have a more tailored appearance, in which case you could opt for one that is closer to the window's width.
How wide should a window be?
For panels, this means that if your window is 36 inches wide, you should look for panels that actually total about 72 inches or more in width.
Do curtains have to be finished at the top?
Curtains are finished at the top in a variety of ways that are directly related to how they function. For example, you would not want to pick panels with tight-fitting rod pockets if you want to open and close them often. Think about how you want your curtains to operate and choose accordingly.
Should you hang valances higher than the ceiling?
While it is true that you should know the size of your window, panels should really be hung much higher than the top of your window casing—in fact, as close to the ceiling as possible in most cases. Valances should not be hung this high; they are meant to top the window.
Can you make window coverings with fabric?
Sure, there are some economical ways to create window coverings, but you still have to spend money on fabric and hardware, not to mention the time you invest. Take a look at a list of curtain crimes to avoid.
Can valances be hung high?
Valances should not be hung this high ; they are meant to top the window. This will make your room feel bigger, which is of particular importance in small spaces. These are the measurements to jot down before heading to the store:
How long should I steam curtains before hanging?
Before you hang the curtains, iron or steam them to release any wrinkles. After taking the time to buy and install the perfect curtains, spending another 15 minutes steaming them will make sure they look their best.
How wide should curtains be?
It's also a good idea to check the width of your window and curtains. As a general rule, you want curtains that are at least one and a half times the width of the window. For a fuller look, opt for more.
How to tell if curtain rod is cheap?
The telltale sign of a cheap curtain rod: it sags in the middle. To avoid this, invest in a sturdy rod, preferably one made of metal or wood rather than plastic.
Can you wash curtains?
Before you buy curtains, consider how easy it will be to wash and care for the fabric. A machine-washable curtain will be easy to keep clean, while a dry clean-only one will require a little more effort and money to maintain.
How to hang curtains before you buy?
Before you start hanging curtains, make sure the panels are wide enough to cover your home's windows. You don't want to be rudely awakened by a beam of sunlight that the curtains don't block, so measure your window dimensions before purchasing or making your curta ins.
How many times should a curtain panel be?
Curtain panels should be about two times the width of the window. Choosing the correct curtain length for your windows is also important. Besides looking awkward, too-small curtains visually shorten your space, making ceilings appear lower and the room smaller overall.
How far above the floor should curtains be?
For the ideal middle ground, curtains should hover just above the floor. To find the right curtain length, measure from the floor to where you'll hang the rod (usually 4 to 6 inches above the window frame). Curtains come in common lengths like 63, 84, and 96 inches.
How long should a curtain rod be?
Curtains come in common lengths like 63, 84, and 96 inches. Choose one closest to your measurement, erring on the side of a few inches longer rather than shorter. Additionally, be sure to choose a curtain rod that's wider than your window.
How do I install curtain rods?
To install the curtain brackets and hang the rod, follow these steps. Use a screwdriver to install curtain brackets; make sure the sides are even using a level. For particularly heavy curtains or rods, you might want to install wall anchors to mount the brackets securely to the wall. Place curtains on the rod.
What is a curtain?
Curtains are an essential accessory in living spaces and bedrooms. This hardworking home decor provides privacy, blocks harsh sunlight, helps you achieve restful sleep, and spruces up windows with texture and color.
Do you need to mount a curtain rod?
It's essential to mount curtain rods in the right spot, or your perfect-length curtains might not hang properly. A rod that sits too close to the window can make a space seem smaller than it really is. Follow these steps to ensure perfect curtain placement.
DO: Hang Curtains to the Floor
Curtains look sophisticated and elegant when they hang all the way to the floor. As a rule of thumb, drapes should skim the floor or fall about a half-inch above. Our Washed Linen Curtains come in 84" and 96" inches to accommodate all types of windows and home design.
DON'T: Stop at the Windowsill
Stopping short while driving or hanging curtains is never good. Select a floor-length curtain that adds visual interest and elongates your room to make it feel bigger!
DO: Invest in Good Hardware
Hardware for your curtains is an important decision as it complements the entire look of the room. Think of the hardware as you would the accessories in your favorite outfit. We are offering a Curtain Rod for a modern look or Curtain Rings with Hooks for a more traditional vibe.
DON'T: Forget to Measure
Take the time to map out where you would like to hang your curtain rod based on the shape of your window and length of your wall. If a rod sits too close to the window it can make the room look small. Instead, mount your hardware slightly above the window to create a more grand appearance.
DO: Have Fun With Layering
Window treatments look beautiful layered as it adds texture and fullness to your space. Our curtains are designed to stand on their own or can be layered together to create more volume. We also love the look of the airy linen curtains over wood shades.
DON'T: Skimp On Fabric
Make sure that you hang curtains that cover your entire window. Our curtains are sold as panels – big enough to cover a small window individually or they can be paired together to frame your windows.
1. Take Command of Your Window
Is there anything a Command hook can't do? Whether you're hanging art, wreaths, or using them for handy storage solutions, Command hooks are a life saver for renters and homeowners alike. So it's no surprise that they make hooks that allow you to hang curtains without drilling.
2. Built-In Adhesive Blinds
Another great drill-free invention is the self-adhesive blind. After you've cut the blind to size, you simply pull the protective coating off the adhesive strip and stick it into place. Are you wondering how well two-sided tape holds up as you pull the blind up and down over time? Good news — it doesn't have to.
3. Get a Tension Rod
Tried and true, tension rods are a good way to hang window treatments without drilling holes in your wall. This solution only works as an inside mount, however, since you need two walls for the rod to push against.
4. Twist-and-Fit Curtain Rods
If you want the function of a tension rod but prefer the look of a classic window treatment, consider a twist-and-fit curtain rod. Like tension rods, twist-and-fit rods screw and unscrew so you can adjust the width and hold themselves in your window via this tension.
5. Kwik-Hang Brackets
This one is a bit of a cheat, as it's almost more about hiding damage than eliminating it, but nail holes are much easier to cover up than large drilled holes. Kwik-Hang curtain rod brackets install on the top of your window trim. You simply place the flat edge on top of the window frame and use a hammer to secure it there with two small nails.
6. Consider Magnetic Curtain Rods
This may not be an option for you, but it's a good one if it is. Metal window frames and doors allow you to install a curtain rod held in place by magnets. Installing the rod is quick and easy, and removing it leaves no trace behind.
7. Redi Shade Simple Fit Combination Rod
If you're worried that adhesive could cause a problem but aren't sure you can count on a tension rod, the Redi Shade Simple Fit system may work well for you. This shade combines adhesive and tension for a more secure fit. On one end of the shade is an adhesive tab that goes against the side of the window frame.
Who said window treatments are the jewelry of the home?
Tim Williams. To hear most designers say it, window treatments are the jewelry of the home, the finishing touch without which no good room is complete. But, as with every rule—design and elsewhere—there are exceptions.
Who designed the curtainless bedroom at the top of this story?
In modern spaces. "I am one of those designers who loves a bare window," confesses Laurie Blumenfeld-Russo (who designed the curtain-less bedroom at the top of this story). "Particularly in modern loft spaces and even brownstones or houses with double height windows. It creates a clean, modern open feeling.
What does bare window do?
For designer Sara Hillery, a bare window can serve as a rest for the eye in an otherwise busy room. "It all depends on the amount of color and pattern in a room," she explains. "If there's a lot of it, by skipping window treatments you can make everything still feel fresh and not overdone."
What is a dream situation for bare windows?
It's not just about what's through the windows, but what's around them, too: "A dream situation for bare windows is when prying eyes of neighbors are far away, the view is extraordinary, and the window shape or trim is of an interesting style ," says Emilie Munroe. "Especially with dark casings, windows can become like art frames in a room."
Can you leave a porthole window bare?
On oddly-shaped windows. If you're working with a porthole-style window or a wonky, offset one, you may be better off leaving it bare and letting its shape make the statement. Plus, says designer Kristen Nix, "draperies can feel odd on uniquely-shaped windows.".
Should I nix curtains?
If you're working in a space that gets very low natural light, nixing the curtains might be your best bet . "If curtains aren’t serving a purpose like filtering light or providing privacy I think it’s nice to keep windows uncovered—so long as they are well made and a good scale," says Jenny Brown.
