Curtain rods should extend 6 to 12 inches past the window frame on each side. This allows the curtains to stack completely on the wall, leaving the glass unobstructed to maximize natural light and making the window appear significantly larger.
The curtain rod should extend 8 to 12 inches past the width of the window on either side. This allows the curtains room to gather on each side when open without blocking your view. Ryan is a fan of using wall anchors that are stronger than the ones provided in the packaging.
Experts recommend hanging the curtain rod 4 to 6 inches above and beyond the window frame to create height and balance. When in doubt, choose longer curtains or have them custom-tailored to ensure a polished, designer-quality finish.
Closer to the Ceiling
A good rule of thumb is to position the curtain rod about 30 centimeters (12”) above the window frame or halfway between the top of the window and the ceiling.
Sheer layering, textured linens, soft velvets, warm neutrals, bold patterns and full-height drapery are shaping interiors this year. Discover inspiration for living rooms, lounges and bedrooms, and explore smart tracks and wave headings for a refined, tailored look.
6 Curtain Styles Designers Avoid—and What They Use Instead
Some of Stewart's homes utilize interior blinds for light regulation and privacy. Others feature windows framed by exterior shutters, operable versions of which can also be used for light control, ventilation and privacy.
❌ Mounting Too Low: This can make ceilings appear lower and rooms feel smaller. ❌ Using Short Rods: Curtains that don't extend beyond the window frame can block light and make windows look cramped. ❌ Neglecting Center Support: Long rods without middle brackets may sag over time.
The most classic and common of all methods of hanging drapery, a rod pocket is a sewn-in pocket, or casing, at the top of a drapery panel that easily slips over a rod and conceals it. Drapery panels hung this way bunch nicely and have a simple, casual look.
1. We recommend that your curtain pole sits 10cm above the window, and is longer than the length of your window by 10cm on either side. You may need to cut the pole to size for a better fit, and the pack instructions should tell you how best to shorten it.
Thankfully, Stewart was quick to ease our curtain concerns. She says, “They're beautiful, I don't have anything against them, I just don't live with them… I like to look outside. Every window [in my home] looks out to something nice, and it's just all open to the view.”
Not Measuring Correctly. One of the most common mistakes people make when hanging curtains is not measuring correctly. It's important to measure the width of your window and the height from the top of the window to where you want your curtains to fall.
Ditching shades has a lot of upsides regardless of who you are. Uncovered windows bring in natural light, boost well-being, and offer a view of the world outside. The trade-off, of course, is that they also put those inside on display to passersby, and in the summer, they channel heat.
How Long Should Curtains Hang Below the Window Sill? Generally, they should hang 2-4 inches below the sill for a neat appearance. Best For: Smaller spaces or areas where practicality is more important than style.
Write down the width measurement. Next, plan for the curtain rod to extend past the window frame by 8 to 10 inches on each side. Choose a rod length that is the window width plus 16 to 20 inches. For example, if the window width is 48 inches, the rod length will be 64 to 68 inches.
Make sure you leave room to get the curtain rod on there. Rod should extend 0'-6” to 0'-12” on both sides of the window for a professional appearance. If you have 8' ceiling, but 8' curtains. 9' curtains for 9' ceilings, etc.
Layered Curtains
While heavy curtains are the answer to a room in need of some privacy, they can feel a little stuffy, often preventing light from gently filtering through during the daytime. This is where the ever-popular window treatment trend comes into play: the layered curtain.
Switch out your single curtain rod for a double rod. Then add a set of sheers closest to the window. For the front rod, hang heavier drapes made of polyester, velvet, silk or chenille. Curtains with a light filtering liner also feel thicker and heavier, so they hang nicely and feel more expensive.
Use Adhesive Hooks
Adhesive hooks are another versatile option for hanging curtains without a traditional rod. They are easy to install and remove without damaging the walls. Simply stick the hooks at the desired height and hang the curtains using loops or rings.
Tips for hanging curtains.. DO Hang High. The higher the rod, the taller the window will appear, so fix your curtain rod closer to the ceiling than the top of your window. The rule of thumb is that they should sit 4-6 inches above the window frame.
Hanging the Rod Too Low
The height at which you hang your drapery rod can impact the feel of the room. Hanging it too high or too low is a common mistake. Striking a balance is crucial. Generally, position the rod about six inches above the window frame.
Steel and stainless steel curtain rods are the top choices for a reason. They're incredibly strong, meaning they won't bend or sag.
A curtain rail installed across the entire width of the wall makes the room appear wider, which is particularly beneficial in narrow interiors. This effect can be intensified by using light, airy curtains in bright colors.