Things that hold curtains back are generally called tiebacks or holdbacks. While they are often used interchangeably, there is a slight difference in how they function:
Curtain rod holders are most commonly called curtain rod brackets. They are the hardware used to mount your rod to the wall or ceiling.
Curtain holdbacks, also called curtain pullbacks, come in various forms, from tiebacks made of fabric to metal hooks or knobs that are installed in the wall next to a window. Tiebacks are typically only used for decorative curtains that will stay shut, while knobs and hooks offer more versatility of use.
Curtains primarily hang on curtain rods or curtain tracks. These are mounted to the wall above the window frame or directly to the ceiling.
Curtain holdbacks and tiebacks (also called curtain pull backs) are accessories that gather and hold curtains open. Whether you're making a decorative statement with your curtains or using them to control light and privacy (or both!), there are many options to consider.
To support a curtain rod properly, secure the end brackets 3 to 6 inches outside the window frame using heavy-duty wall anchors, and place a center support bracket for spans over 96 inches. For heavy curtains, always anchor into wooden wall studs whenever possible.
To keep curtains exactly where you want them, the fix depends on whether you are trying to stop them from sliding along the rod, blowing in the wind, or flaring out at the sides.
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.”
Adding back tabs (or hidden tabs) to your curtains gives them a clean, floating, pleated look. You can achieve this with basic sewing tools or even without sewing using specialized tape.
Renter-Friendly Curtains: How to Hang Them Without Drilling
The most affordable curtain rod alternatives include hardwood dowels, metal electrical conduits, or thick rope suspended by simple wall hooks or leather scraps. For renters, damage-free methods like heavy-duty adhesive hooks (e.g., Command hooks) or classic tension rods are ideal.
A curtain rod, curtain rail, curtain pole, or traverse rod is a device used to suspend curtains, usually above windows or along the edges of showers or bathtubs, though also wherever curtains might be used.
Window hardware
Hardware forms, often called drapery hooks or curtain hooks, are usually U-shaped pieces of metal, sometimes highly decorative, though other materials such as antler might be used. One leg of the "U" is fixed to the wall and the curtain is pulled over the other leg to secure it.
Things that hold curtains back are generally called curtain holdbacks or curtain tiebacks. While they are often used interchangeably, the exact term depends on the specific design and how they interact with the curtains.
Step-by-step instructions for closing
Bracket. Also known as Mounts, these are used to attach rods to the wall or ceiling. Explore our full range of Curtain Rod Brackets for different mounting styles including double rods, inside mounts, and rods with returns.
Hanging curtains without nails is easy and perfect for rentals. You can use heavy-duty adhesive hooks or adjustable tension rods. Both options take just a few minutes to set up and leave your walls completely damage-free.
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.
Here are some of the best practices to keep your curtain rods from sliding.
Use a center bracket.
This will evenly distribute the weight of curtains on the rod, helping it to remain in place when opening and closing your curtains.
Attach curtain rod clips by spacing them 4–6 inches apart along the top edge of the curtain, ensuring the first clips are on the corners for a clean look. Simply pinch the clip, fasten it to the fabric, and slide the rings onto the rod.
For a balanced and natural look, install your curtain holdbacks (or tieback hooks) about 13one-third13 of the way up from the bottom of the curtain panel, and roughly 2 to 3 inches outside the window frame.