Curtain hooks, specifically pin-on or drapery hooks, attach to the stiffened header tape on the back of pleated curtains (like pinch or pencil pleat) and then connect to curtain rings, traverse rod slides, or track gliders. They are designed to lift the fabric below a curtain rod or track to create structured, tailored folds.
Drape the curtain over your arm and loop the hooks into the curtain rings or onto the track gliders. You may need to use a small step ladder. Repeat with the second curtain. Once hung, curtains can be teased into neat, even folds by running your fingers through the fabric.
Magnetic rods attach to metal surfaces, thanks to strong magnets on each end. They are the easiest installation option, but only if you have metal surfaces. Check the setup first. These rods work for metal entry doors, metal storm doors, metal window frames (older ones, mostly), and metal-clad patio doors.
Curtain Weight
A heavier curtain, such as velvet, may not be fully supported with ring clips, which can pull or pop off the edge of the fabric. In this case, you'll want to hang your drapery by either pin hooks or rod pocket method, which is designed to hold the full weight of the fabric without sagging.
For a polished look, insert curtain hooks 0.50.50.5 to 111 inch down from the top of the curtain header. Space the hooks evenly every 4 to 6 inches across the width of the fabric, ensuring you place a hook near each end of the panel to prevent sagging.
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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.”
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.
Choosing between curtain clips and hooks depends on the fabric weight, desired aesthetic, and track type. Curtain clips are ideal for a casual, relaxed look with lightweight fabrics, while hooks are best for heavy or pleated curtains and provide a more formal, tailored appearance.
Even though ornate valances were once a staple in traditional-style homes, they are now considered outdated. "Avoid overly ornate valances, which can feel dated and heavy," says interior designer Danielle Chiprut. "They can feel at odds with today's preference for light, airy interiors."
Adhesive brackets or heavy-duty hooks: These can work on smooth, non-porous metal if the surface is cleaned first; adhesion may weaken over time or with heavy curtains. Wrap-around or clamp-style rods: Some designs grip the frame without adhesives or magnets and suit certain door profiles.
8 Common DIY Curtain Rod Installation Mistakes and How to Prevent Them
Wooden dowels can serve as a creative and inexpensive alternative to traditional curtain rods. Choose a dowel with a diameter suitable for your curtain's weight and cut it to the desired length. Mount the dowel using brackets or hooks.
To attach curtain hooks to a rod, you first attach them to the curtain fabric and then hang the hooks onto the curtain rings. Alternatively, if using a specialized track system, the hooks slide directly into the track.
We recommend low hooks for track rail hanging. Slide each of the hook's two fingers through every pocket on the crease-band. This equates to 16 hooks per single width curtain (32 hooks per double width).
For a polished look, insert curtain hooks 0.50.50.5 to 111 inch down from the top of the curtain header. Space the hooks evenly every 4 to 6 inches across the width of the fabric, ensuring you place a hook near each end of the panel to prevent sagging.
The most significant "curtain" (or veil) in the Bible is the heavy barrier in the Jerusalem Temple that separated humanity from God's presence. Its tearing represents the removal of the barrier of sin, allowing believers direct access to God.
Curtain trends in 2026 are shifting from purely functional covers to architectural statement pieces. The top looks emphasize rich, natural textures, layered depth, warm neutral and earth-toned palettes, and smart home integration to bring quiet luxury and character to interior spaces.
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.
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.
Yes, curtains are incredibly stylish. Moving past bare minimalism, modern window treatments have evolved into major, mood-setting statement pieces. The 2026 design landscape focuses on warmth, "quiet luxury," and architectural integration.
Martha Stewart recently went on the In Bed with Paige DeSorbo Amazon livestream and dropped a hot take about how often she swaps her bedding. Stewart revealed that she has her sheets changed every two to three days.
Martha Stewart, 83, has nothing to hide. She's always been unabashedly candid about her life and career, including her divorce and her 2005 stint in prison for insider trading. And now, the lifestyle guru is opening up about being diagnosed with the autoimmune disease vitiligo for the very first time.
Replace traditional window drapes with modern alternatives like window films (for a sleek, frosted privacy look), interior plantation shutters (for timeless elegance and light control), or woven wood and Roman shades (for texture and a soft, tailored fold).