Generally, it is perfectly acceptable for curtains not to touch the floor. In some cases, such as when furnishing a contemporary living space, leaving curtains slightly short can be an intentional design choice.
On the other hand, some homeowners prefer their curtains to reach the floor for the sake of neatness and perceived luxury. Windows that have windowsill radiators just beneath the sill will require shorter curtains in order to prevent too much heat from escaping or too much fabric from being exposed to the intense temperatures.
In the end, the particular aesthetic requirements of the homeowner will determine if curtains should touch or not touch the floor.
Do curtains need to reach floor?
It is generally recommended that curtains reach the floor but it is not a requirement for every window. The overall look can be affected by how long curtains are, so the decision is more aesthetic than functional.
When the curtain covers the window completely, not just the window glass but the framing as well, it will look cleaner and more polished. Additionally, curtains that reach the floor create the illusion of a larger window which can be helpful for smaller rooms to make them appear more spacious.
When curtains do not reach the floor, it is common for them to be slightly longer than the window width and to puddle on the floor or hang close to the floor. Depending on the material of the curtains, this look can be quite elegant.
If they are too short, the curtains may look choppy and unfinished. It is worth considering that the type of window will also have an effect on the overall look. For example, floor to ceiling windows look especially stunning when the curtains go all the way down and pool at the bottom.
When making the decision whether to have curtains reach the floor or not, it is ultimately a matter of preference and choice. Different style curtains may suit a space better than traditional floor-length curtains.
For instance, café curtains and ones with a fun pattern are a great way to add a personal touch and keep the space from looking too formal.
How long should curtains be from the floor?
Ideally, the length of curtains from the floor will depend on your personal preference, the type of window treatment used, the size and design of the room, and the style of the curtains. For a more traditional look, curtains should hang about 1/2 inch above the floor, allowing for slight pooling of fabric for a timeless elegance.
If longer length is desired, floor length curtains will give a more formal, grandeur look and should just graze the floor. If the room has low ceilings, the hem of the curtains should just touch the floor in order to make the room appear larger.
For a contemporary look, sometimes curtains are hung higher, at the halfway or two-thirds point on the window frame, giving the illusion of higher ceilings. Ultimately, these guidelines are just suggestions and how you choose to hang your curtains should be based on what looks and feels best to you.
How many inches should curtains puddle?
When hanging curtains, it’s important to consider the amount of puddling that you want, as this can have a big impact on the aesthetic of the room. Typically, a good general guideline is to consider around six inches of puddling when selecting the length of your curtains.
Depending on the fabric, the length of the curtains, and the look you’re trying to achieve, you may choose more or less puddling. For instance, if you have a shorter curtain length and a heavier fabric, you may opt for a 4-6 inch puddle.
If you have a heavier cotton fabric, you may want to opt for 8-10 inches of puddling. When in doubt, 6 inches is usually a good starting point to ensure a timeless, classic look.
How much do curtains drop after hanging?
The amount that curtains drop after being hung can vary depending on a few things. First, the type of fabric used for the curtains can impact the amount of drop you see. Heavier fabrics tend to hang longer, while lighter fabrics have a shorter drop.
Additionally, the length of the curtains can dramatically impact the drop. For instance, long curtains will have a further drop than curtains that are shorter in length. Lastly, the tension that is applied to the curtains when they are hung can affect their hang.
If there is good tension, then the curtains will hang better, resulting in a longer drop. On average, most curtains will drop anywhere from the bottom of the window frame down to the floor.
How far should curtains go past the window?
The ideal length for curtains depends on the style and the overall look you are trying to achieve. In general, curtains should extend far enough to reach the floor or at least the window sill, with the panels stacked 8-12 inches beyond the window on either side.
If you have a traditional style of window, a curtain that falls all the way to the floor is recommended. If the window is a standard size, it is recommended for the curtains to extend 3-4 inches beyond the width of the window.
For floor-to-ceiling windows, you can choose curtains with a longer length. They should extend 1-2 inches beyond either side of the window and 2-3 inches beyond the top of the window. Another option is to suspend the curtain rod 10-12 inches above the window frame, allowing the curtains to pool gently at the floor.
Consider these guidelines and adjust the length of your curtains accordingly to achieve the desired look.
How high do you hang 84 inch curtains?
When hanging 84 inch curtains, it is recommended that the curtains should be hung 4 to 6 inches above the window frame. Since 84 inch curtains are typically floor length, the rod should be placed near the ceiling to create a dramatic look.
Additionally, when hanging curtains it is important to consider how much light and privacy it will allow into the room. If the goal is to let more light into the room, you should hang the curtains closer to the top of the window.
If more privacy is desired, a longer distance between the top of the window and the rod should be employed. Ultimately, the height at which the curtains are hung is up to you and the effect you wish to create, but 4 to 6 inches above the window frame is usually the considered the optimal height for 84-inch curtains.
Can you hang curtains too high?
Yes, you can hang curtains too high. Doing so can have several negative impacts, though. Firstly, if the curtains hang too far above the window they may not adequately provide light or privacy control.
Secondly, curtains that are too high often look “off” or disproportionate in the room, detracting from the overall aesthetic. Additionally, curtains that hang too high could become difficult to reach, making regular adjustment a chore.
To avoid these negative impacts, it is best to measure and hang the curtains the appropriate distance above the window. As a general rule of thumb, the curtain rod should be installed four to six inches above the top of the window frame.
Can short curtains ever look good?
Yes, short curtains can definitely look good in the right setting. In general, short curtains are more often seen in more casual, modern settings, however they can be incorporated in more traditional, formal settings as well.
Short curtains usually look best when hung with rings or hooks just above the window frame. This allows enough material to hang nicely without taking up too much space or blocking any natural light. Short curtains look great when left to drape softly above the window, creating a softer and more relaxed look.
They also make a great choice for rooms with low ceilings, or to hang in a room with a view, as they don’t obstruct the view outside. When choosing fabric, textures and prints look best with short curtains while light, airy materials work well in bright, sunny rooms.
For bedrooms, romantic sheers, lace, or even heavier velours will add texture, color and opulence. All in all, short curtains can certainly look good – it all comes down to the correct styling and choice of fabric.
What do you do if your curtains are too long?
If your curtains are too long, the easiest way to fix it is to cut the fabric to the desired length. To do this correctly, you will want to measure the length you want your curtains and then use a pair of scissors or a rotary cutter to cut the excess fabric off.
It is best to use a straight edge or measuring tape to make sure you are cutting in a straight line and at the same level. You may also want to use a chalk pen or ruler to draw a line at the desired length to ensure an even cut.
Once the excess fabric has been removed, it’s a good idea to hem the edges to prevent fraying and give the curtains a polished look. If you are not comfortable with the idea of cutting your curtains, you can also take them to a tailor or alteration specialist to have them hemmed.
How far off the floor should 84 inch curtains be?
When selecting the ideal hanging height for 84-inch curtains, there are a few factors to consider. First, measure the height of the space where the curtains will hang, including any trim. The curtains should be hung approximately 4 to 6 inches above the window frame, so that they hang just above the sill.
Additionally, extend the curtains several inches farther than the width of the window to ensure they are visible and do not obscure the glass when drawn. To ensure that the curtains drape gracefully, they should be hung higher up than the window sill by at least 12 inches.
When the curtains are pulled back, the top of the panel should hit at or just above the window frame. Therefore, for 84 inch curtains, the ideal hanging height would be at least 96 inches off the floor.
Where should curtains fall?
The ideal placement for curtains should normally be just above the window frame or slightly higher if desired for an elegant look. Curtains should be hung high and wide to make the windows look larger and taller.
Many people prefer that the curtains fall approximately 4 inches (10 cm) from the top of the window frame to the curtain rod. However, this can vary depending on the style of window and the size of the curtains.
Generally, rod pocket panels should be hung 4 inches (10 cm) above the window frame, while panels with tab tops should be hung 3 inches (7.5 cm) above the window frame. For a more formal look, curtains can also be hung higher, around 8 inches (20 cm) above the window frame.
This will give the room a more tailored look, but it will also make the windows appear smaller. Ultimately, the styling and placement of curtains should be tailored to the space and desired look.
Do floor to ceiling curtains make a room look bigger?
Yes, floor to ceiling curtains can make a room look bigger. This effect is achieved because the curtains, when extended to the floor, create the illusion of height, which makes a room look larger than it actually is.
Additionally, the curtains can be used to control the amount of natural light entering a room, and this can also help make a room appear bigger. Since curtains are an important part of home décor, they can be used to introduce color and texture to a space, which can make a room look brighter, airier, and bigger.
Finally, when hung correctly, floor to ceiling curtains can give the illusion that a room is much bigger than it actually is.
Are puddled drapes out of style?
Whether or not puddled drapes are out of style could depend on the type of space and desired aesthetic. While puffed, frilly drapes that extend to the floor with a pool of fabric around can be considered a more traditional style, puddled drapes are not necessarily out of style.
A touch of old-world luxury can be found from drapes that puddle, depending on your desired outcome. These tend to also help add a bit more of texture and visual interest. In a more modern setting, puddled drapes can be used as part of an eclectic look, as certain fabrics can appear to create a wave-like effect, for instance.
Ultimately, puddled drapes are not necessarily out of style and depending on the space, it may be preferable to keep them as opposed to more tailored, straight-lined drapes.
How do you puddle curtains?
Puddling curtains is a way to create a dramatic look in your room, and it’s quite easy to achieve. Begin by measuring the length of your curtains and add 8-10 inches for your puddle. Mark the meeting point of your curtains and draw a horizontal line at the desired length.
Cut the marked area to make the puddle. After this, remove the hem and press the fabric. If your curtains are unlined, you should hem the edges of the cut fabric to keep the edges frames in place. Finally, measure and mark the puddle on the backside of the curtains and then use an iron to press in the puddle.
This will create the desired elegance of your curtains.
What are apron length curtains?
Apron length curtains are a popular window treatment style used in many homes. The design involves a full-length panel hung from the top of the window, with the bottom few inches tucked up and behind a decorative apron.
This creates a longer, more elegant look and is usually used to add a touch of extra drama to a room. Apron length curtains can be hung from either curtain rings or a curtain rod, depending on the desired look.
These longer curtains are often seen in classic, traditional spaces but can also work to add an interesting design element to more modern interiors. The bottom of the apron may be decorated with any number of decorative elements, such as fabric, trim, or tassels, and the opportunity for creativity is limitless.