How To Hang Extra Wide Curtains: Maximizing Window Coverage

Hanging curtains properly is crucial for creating an elegant and spacious look in your home. Many people make common mistakes when buying and hanging curtains, but with these expert tips, you can avoid those pitfalls and maximize your window coverage. By following the right techniques, you can enhance your window privacy and achieve a stylish window treatment solution.

Key Takeaways:

• Choose the right curtain length and width based on the height and size of your windows.
• Avoid common curtain hanging mistakes such as placing the rod too low or using curtains that are too short.
• Consider different curtain styles and rod options to complement the overall aesthetic of your room.
• Opt for wide curtain panels or double-wide panels for larger windows to ensure proper coverage.
• Proper curtain mounting, whether above and outside the window molding or inside the mount, can enhance the overall look.

Common Curtain Hanging Mistakes to Avoid

When it comes to curtain hanging, there are a few common mistakes that many people make. By knowing what these mistakes are, you can ensure that you avoid them and achieve the best possible look for your windows.

1. Hanging the curtain rod too low: One major mistake is hanging the curtain rod too low. This can make your ceilings appear lower and your room feel cramped. To create the illusion of higher ceilings, the curtain rod should be placed at least halfway between the window frame and the ceiling.
2. Using curtains that are too short: Another mistake to avoid is using curtains that are too short for the window. This can make the room appear stubby and awkward. Instead, consider options like the slight float or the kiss. The slight float refers to curtains that don’t touch the floor but come just above it, giving a stylish and tailored look. The kiss refers to curtains that barely touch the floor, creating a clean and modern aesthetic.
3. Curtains blocking light: Blocking light with curtains is a common problem that can easily be avoided. To prevent this, make sure that the curtain rod extends at least 6-10 inches on either side of the window frame. This allows the curtains to be fully pulled back, allowing natural light to fill the room when desired.

To visualize these mistakes and their solutions, take a look at the following image:

By avoiding these curtain hanging mistakes, you can ensure that your windows look their best, allowing for both functionality and style. Now that you know what not to do, let’s move on to choosing the right length and width for your curtains in the next section.

Choosing the Right Length and Width for Your Curtains

When it comes to selecting curtains, it’s essential to consider both the length and width to achieve a stylish and balanced look for your windows. The length of your curtains plays a vital role in determining the overall aesthetic and functionality.

The length of your curtains should depend on the height of your windows and the desired look.

If you aim for a polished and elegant appearance, floor-length curtains are the way to go. These curtains extend all the way to the floor, creating a visually appealing and sophisticated ambiance. However, if you prefer a more relaxed and tailored feel, curtains that extend onto the floor by 1 to 3 inches can achieve that desired look.

Now, let’s talk about the width of your curtains. Choosing the right width is crucial to ensure a full and drapey look when your curtains are closed. As a general rule, it’s recommended to have curtains that are 2 to 2.5 times the width of your window. This calculation factor allows for the fabric to gather beautifully when drawn closed, creating an elegant and luxurious effect.

If you have larger windows, such as bay windows or picture windows, using double-wide panels can help prevent the curtains from looking disproportionate to the window size. These wide curtain panels provide a seamless and visually balanced appearance.

Remember:

1. Consider the height of your windows and the desired look when determining the length of your curtains.
2. For a polished and elegant feel, go for floor-length curtains.
3. To achieve a more relaxed and tailored look, opt for curtains that extend onto the floor by 1 to 3 inches.
4. Choose curtains that are 2 to 2.5 times the width of your window for a full and drapey look when closed.
5. Use double-wide panels for larger windows to maintain proportionality and visual balance.

By carefully selecting the appropriate length and width for your curtains, you can elevate the overall aesthetics of your living space while achieving the functionality you desire.

Expert Tip: Measuring Curtain Length and Width

When measuring for curtain length, start by determining the height you want your curtains to reach, whether it’s floor-length or a specific length above the floor. Measure from the top of your curtain rod to the desired length, making sure to account for any curtain rings or hooks.

For the width, measure the entire width of your window and multiply that measurement by the factor mentioned earlier (2 to 2.5 times). This will ensure you have enough fabric to achieve a full and luxurious look when your curtains are closed.

Remember, it’s always best to err on the side of having slightly longer curtains than curtains that are too short. You can always hem them if necessary.

Curtain Rods, Mounting, and Curtain Styles

When it comes to selecting curtain rods for your windows, it’s essential to consider the style and overall aesthetic of your room. There are various options available, including adjustable poles with finials, tension rods, and curtain tracks. These choices allow you to find the perfect match for your decor.

In terms of curtain styles, there are options that can lend a more formal or casual feel to your space. For a sophisticated and elegant look, consider curtain styles with pleats or loops. These create beautiful folds and add a touch of refinement to your windows. Alternatively, if you prefer a more laid-back and relaxed vibe, opt for curtains with flat headings or back tabs.

When it comes to curtain mounting, experts generally recommend placing the curtain rods above and outside the window molding. This positioning helps maximize the amount of light coming into the room and gives the illusion of larger windows. However, if you have intricate and decorative window frames that you would like to showcase, an inside mount can be employed.

For a more decorative and functional touch, consider using curtain tiebacks. These accessories allow you to hold the curtains back and create an inviting and stylish look. They also provide flexibility in adjusting the amount of light and privacy in the room.

Source Links

• https://stylebyemilyhenderson.com/blog/hanging-curtains-all-wrong
• https://mixandmatchdesign.com/new-blog/blackout-curtains-how-roundup-to-hang
• https://www.realsimple.com/home-organizing/decorating/curtains-window-treatments