Curtains should hang to the floor for a polished and finished look. Generally, the ideal length is at least one inch from the floor. This provides just enough space to avoid dragging the fabric across the floor while allowing the curtains to drape gracefully.
If you have furniture directly in front of the window, measure the panels slightly higher so they do not block the bottom half of the window. Meanwhile, if you have wood floors, it can be tempting to mount curtains close to the floor, but if you need to sweep or vacuum underneath, you may want to mount one to two inches higher than the floor instead.
How far below the window should curtains hang?
The ideal length for curtains hanging below a window depends on personal preference, the size of the window and the overall style of the room. Generally, the bottom edge of full-length curtains should be about 6-12 inches from the floor for an appropriate balance.
For sill-length curtains, the bottom edge should just touch the window sill without covering it. If you are aiming for a more casual look, you can hang the curtains slightly lower, up to about 20 inches from the floor.
On the other hand, a more sophisticated look can be achieved by hanging the curtains a few inches higher, approximately 4-6 inches from the floor.
How should living room curtains hang?
Living room curtains should hang in a way that allows the most light and privacy while also providing a pleasing aesthetic. If space allows, longer curtains that extend past the window are recommended – they should hang either to the floor or just above and just below the window frame.
If the curtains are too short, they may not provide adequate privacy or control of light. In addition, the style and pattern of the curtains should also be taken into account – for example, sheer curtains look great for letting light in, but may not provide privacy.
Finally, the curtains should be hung with a rod that is both aesthetically pleasing and also strong enough to handle the weight of the fabric and hold up the curtains without drooping.
How far should curtains extend past window?
When it comes to how far your curtains should extend past the window, the length will vary depending on the size and style of your window, as well as the style of the curtains you have chosen. Generally, the curtains should extend around 1 to 3 inches past lower window frame on each side.
If your curtains are on a rod and there is a gap between the frame of the window and the end of the curtains, you can choose to increase the length of the curtain to allow for a fuller look. If you are using tab-top or tie-top curtains, you may want to extend them up to 4 or 5 inches past the window frame, as this will allow for a more voluminous look.
Additionally, if you are using curtains with fullness, the edge of the fabric should extend 1.5 to 4 times the curtain’s width (a fullness ratio of 1.5 to 4) to create the most visual impact. Ultimately, the length of your curtains should reflect both the size and style of your window and the look you desire in the room.
Should my curtains touch floor?
It ultimately depends on your own personal preference. If you have long windows, you may prefer the aesthetic look of curtains that stop just above the floor. Alternatively, if you may like the look of full-length curtains that reach the floor.
From a practical perspective, if your curtains are short, they are more likely to get caught up in any foot traffic around the window and may be a tripping hazard. If they are long, they are less likely to be subject to wear and tear.
Long curtains can also help to block out more potential drafts.
Your choice of curtains may also be effected by the type of flooring and furniture you have in the room. For example, shorter curtains may suit a room with hardwood floors that has furniture with legs so as not to obstruct the view, whereas heavier or thicker curtains may be better suited for rooms with carpets or rugs.
Take some time to give consideration to the practical, stylistic and long-term implications of each style before making your choice.
What is the rule of thumb for hanging curtains?
The general rule of thumb for curtain hanging is to hang them about four to six inches above the top of the window frame. The curtains should extend one to two inches beyond both sides of the window frame and hang down at least a few inches from the bottom of the window frame.
To get the right length, measure from the top of the frame to the floor, then add 10-12 inches for the hem and rod pocket to allow for proper coverage and draping. For maximum light blockage, hang curtains at least 3-4 inches above the window frame, plus enough extra length to allow them to pool just a bit on the floor.
The panels should overlap in the middle by at least 1-2 inches when closed. Depending on the decorative look of the window, you can either hang the hardware in the middle of the window frame or to one side, towards the center of the room.
Where should curtain brackets be placed?
When installing curtain brackets, it is important to carefully measure and plot the appropriate locations. The distance between the top of the window frame and the bottom of the brackets should be based on the length of the curtain rod, typically 3 to 4 inches below the top of the frame.
The distance between the two brackets should divide the space equally and be 8 to 10 inches greater than the width of the rod itself. For example, if your rod is 36 inches wide, then the brackets need to be approximately 44 to 46 inches apart.
When selecting placement, make sure the brackets are level and are securely attached to the wall or window frame. Additionally, look up to see if there are any electrical outlets or a light switch in the wall where the curtains will hang.
If so, the brackets should not interfere with the switch or outlet. Finally, most brackets are adjustable to accommodate various rod widths and lengths.
How do you hang curtains like a pro?
Hanging curtains like a pro requires careful attention to detail and proper measurement. Here are a few steps you can follow to hang curtains like an expert:
1. Measure the width and length of your windows to determine how wide and long you need your curtains to be.
2. Choose suitable curtain hardware that is appropriate for the style and weight of your curtains. Check the weight rating of any curtain rod that you are considering and opt for a sturdier option.
3. Decide the height at which you want to hang your curtains. Generally, the curtains should sit 4-6 inches above the window frame, but it’s entirely a personal preference.
4. Mark the two spots on the wall where you want to hang the curtain rod. Make sure you measure carefully so that your curtains hang evenly.
5. If you are hanging the curtains inside the window frame, then use the grab-together mount for attaching the rod brackets. If you are attaching to the wall, then use the next method.
6. Use a level and a screwdriver to mount the curtain rods at the marked spots. Make sure that the screws are all tightened properly.
7. Once the rods are mounted, simply slide the curtains onto the rod and hang them. Ensure that the curtains hang evenly and that the bottom of the curtains does not touch the floor.
8. Finally, use drapery pins or curtain rings to attach the curtains to the rod.
Following this simple process should help you hang curtains like a pro in no time.
How do you hang curtains when the window is at the top of the wall?
Hanging curtains when the window is at the top of the wall can be a bit tricky, but there are a few steps you’ll need to take in order to ensure it’s done correctly and securely.
Firstly, you’ll need to measure the length of the window and the width between the edges of the wall. This will give you the dimensions needed when purchasing your curtains.
Next, you’ll need to identify how you’re going to hang your curtains. For top-of-wall windows, a rod or track system above the window works best. There are a variety of different track and rod systems available that can be easily installed, depending on the weight of the curtains.
Make sure whichever type you select is securely attached to the wall, especially if you’re hanging curtains that are heavier than usual.
If a rod or track isn’t the best option, you can alternatively use an adjustable curtain frame or telescopic rod. This type of rod allows you to hang two curtains on the same rod, with one placed above the window and one beneath it.
Then you’ll need to measure the distance from the top of your window to the top of the rod or track and ensure that the bottom of your curtains are overlapping the window by at least 6”. This will ensure that the curtains hang nicely and aren’t too short.
Finally, you’ll need to add the finishing touches. Use hooks, rings, or clips to hang your curtains and attach tie back bands for a neat look, ensuring the curtains are securely hung.
With these steps, you’ll be able to hang curtains over a top-of-wall window with ease and create a great look in the room.
Can short curtains ever look good?
Yes, short curtains can look good when executed well. They are great for making a home feel more open or spacious, especially if you have relatively low ceilings. To make them look good, the curtains should be of the same fabric or material, hang from the same rods or have matching finials, and have the same rod height across the window.
Additionally, consider the color, texture, and pattern of the fabric. Keep in mind that shorter curtains will also make your room lighter and brighter as you will not be covering as much of the window.
Short curtains can be a great way to modernize your room and create a striking focal point in your home. Ultimately, the right short curtains will be able to transform a room.
What do you do if your curtains are too long?
If your curtains are too long, there are a few options available to you in order to adjust their length. One option is to simply hem the curtains by folding and stitching the excess fabric along the bottom edge.
If you don’t have a sewing machine, you can take the curtains to a tailor, or even hand stitch them yourself. Another option is to use a product like Drapery Challenger, which attaches to your ceiling or wall just above where you would like the curtain to be, allowing it to hang to the correct length without being altered.
Finally, depending on the type of curtain, you could also use clip-on curtain rings which can be adjusted so that your curtains will be the right length. Whichever option you choose, make sure to measure twice and cut once so that your curtains will hang perfectly!.
Is it better to have curtains too long or too short?
It is generally better to choose curtains that are slightly too long than too short. This is because curtains that are too short will not pool naturally on the floor and could look awkward or disproportionate.
Likewise, when purchasing curtains that require hemming, it is better to err on the side of caution and buy curtains that are a few inches too long rather than a few inches too short. Additionally, if you are requesting custom curtains, the manufacturer may not allow returns or exchanges if too short.
Curtains that are too long can be easily hemmed up to the desired length.
Do long or short curtains make a room look bigger?
The answer to this question depends on the look you’re trying to achieve for your room. Long curtains can make a room look bigger if they are hung high and wide, extending past the window frame. This creates the illusion of a taller, more spacious room since your eye is drawn up towards the ceiling and out towards the curtain.
However, if the curtains hang too low or too narrow, the opposite can be true and the room will look smaller. Short curtains may make a room look bigger, as their minimal design does not draw attention to the windows or its size.
Moreover, if the curtains are sheer, or you opt to add a curtain valance or cafe curtains, the light will be maximized and the room will appear brighter and more open. Ultimately, the type of curtains you choose can have an impact on the perceived size of the room, so consider the look and feel you’re going for and look for options that can help you achieve the desired outcome.
Which curtain length looks best?
The best curtain length depends on the type of window and how you want the curtains to look in the room. For example, if you want a formal and traditional look, floor-length curtains that puddle on the floor are a great choice.
If you want a more casual look, go with curtains that hit just below the window sill or slightly longer. If you have a window that is tall and narrow, consider hangings that go all the way to the floor for a dramatic effect.
Short curtains are ideal for a contemporary look, as they can make a small window appear larger. If you have windows that are close to the ceiling, you could use extra long curtains. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and the design elements in the room that you want to emphasize.
What is the most common curtain length?
The most common curtain length is a floor-length curtain, which typically falls between 1.2 and 1.5 times the window’s width. Floor-length curtains can be adjusted to different lengths depending on the size of the window and the personal preference of the decorator.
Sheer and light fabrics, like linen and cotton, can create a more spacious look and may hang slightly lower than heavier fabrics like velvet and velour. When measuring for the desired length, the bottom hem should usually be about 2 to 4 inches above the finished floor.
Additionally, curved or arched windows may require special or customized curtains to ensure proper coverage.
Are puddled drapes out of style?
Puddled drapes, also known as “puddling” or “puddles” are created by allowing a fabric panel to slightly pool on the floor around the window or door. This style of drapery was once a popular window treatment for larger and more formal interiors.
However, since the trend is slowly being replaced with other more modern styles, it’s fair to say that traditional puddled drapes are slowly becoming out of style. While they are still beautiful and can definitely bring a timeless touch to a room, there are newer styles that may be more suitable and appropriate for contemporary interiors.
Some of these new options include sheers, bamboo shades, curtains, and shutters. These different options can give you the same benefit as puddles, with a more modern touch.
Is it OK to put curtains over blinds?
Yes, it is totally fine to put curtains over blinds. Adding curtains can provide an extra layer of insulation to help keep your home cool during the summer, and warm during the winter. Additionally, curtains can add texture, interest and color to a space, as well as provide privacy and shade.
When hanging curtains over blinds, you will want to make sure that the rod is wide enough to extend past the edges of the blinds on each side, so the curtains can be opened and closed without interfering with the blinds.
Can you hang curtains too high?
Yes, you can hang curtains too high. It is generally recommended to hang curtains just above the window frame or the molding around the window frame. However, hanging curtains too high can make a room appear taller and more spacious, which can be a desirable effect in some cases.
When hanging curtains too high, it is important to ensure the curtains are not hung so high that they entirely cover the window. Additionally, when hanging curtains too high, make sure to consider the length of the curtains, as some fabrics may puddle on the floor when hung too high.
When hanging curtains too high, make sure to hang the rod a few inches above the window frame for a clean, finished look.
Are living room curtains supposed to touch the floor?
The short answer to this question is “it depends.” Assuming that you are referring to full-length curtains, the answer depends on a few different factors and individual preferences.
When curtains just barely or slightly graze the floor, this is known as “puddling,” and it is commonly seen in more traditional interior design styles. To achieve a puddling effect, curtains should be at least two to three inches longer than the window to allow the material to lightly pool on the floor.
If they are shorter, they will look too abrupt with the floor and will appear out of proportion.
If you prefer a more modern look, you can opt to have your curtains hang with a one to two inch break. This means that the hem of the curtain just barely touches the floor but doesn’t hang on it. This shorter style will make your room feel more expansive and help the curtains take the focus away from the window.
At the end of the day, the choice is yours and depends on the look and feel you are going for in your living room. Whether you opt for puddling or a one to two inch break, as long as you are happy with your choice, that’s all that matters.
How tall should my curtains be?
When shopping for curtains, it’s important to take into account the height of your window as well as the style of the room. A good rule of thumb is to measure to the top of the window casing or to the bottom of the window sill, whichever is longer.
If you want a traditional look, curtains should hang 18 to 24 inches above the window frame. For a more modern look, you can opt to hang your curtains higher and mount the rod closer to the ceiling. This will give a more spacious feel.
Additionally, you may want to consider the length of the curtains. Longer curtains look more elegant but may be impractical if your windows are short. Shorter curtains may provide the right balance if your room has higher ceilings.
Ultimately, the choice is yours and should be based on the decor of the room and personal preference.