How to Hang Curtains 3 Ways

Window treatments do more than just cover your windows; they can transform your space and set the tone for your entire home. They play a crucial role in reflecting your unique sense of style. In farmhouse-style homes, curtains can create a cozy and rustic charm. But did you know how you hang your curtains can also impact the overall look and feel of your space?

Here are three ways you can hang curtains in your home:

Back tabs are fabric loops sewn onto the back of the curtain panel, which slide directly onto the rod. This option is ideal for creating a neat and tidy appearance as this method eliminates the need for visible rings or hooks, creating a clean and uncluttered look. And since the tabs are able to slide more freely on the rod, it allows the curtain panels to be moved more easily than with a standard rod pocket. Back tabs also help curtains to hang uniformly and evenly, providing a more tailored and structured look. Use this simple but stylish technique to create a clean, modern farmhouse look in your room.

Curtain clips are small, metal, or plastic devices with a simple clip attached to a ring. Simply slide the rings onto the rod, then use the clips to secure the fabric at the top of the curtain. Note that curtain clips are available in a variety of sizes to fit most curtain rods. They are a versatile and straightforward way to hang curtains, and they work well with a variety of fabrics, including lightweight sheers and heavy drapes. Curtain clips create a casual and relaxed look that is perfect for a country cottage or relaxed farmhouse style. One of the benefits of using curtain clips is that the rings slide very easily on the rod, so they are ideal for situations where you want to open and close your window treatments. They also make installing and removing curtains a breeze, making them an excellent option for those who like to frequently change their window treatments.

Rod pockets are a sewn-in pocket at the top of the curtain that allows you to slide the rod all the way through. This option is perfect when you want a more traditional, simple, or classic look for your window treatments. Gather the fabric evenly on the rod, taking a moment to adjust the header fabric, and make sure the curtain hangs neatly and uniformly. One of the benefits of using a rod pocket is that it is an easy and uncomplicated way to hang curtains! And it’s a great choice if you prefer a more traditional or classic look for your windows. Try this in formal living rooms or dining rooms. 

Each of these options has its own advantages. The choice ultimately depends on the type of curtains you have and how you want your curtains to look stylistically.

 

Measuring for Curtains

In farmhouse-style homes, you can elevate your curtains and create a warm and inviting space with the right fabric, hardware, and installation techniques. But before you hang anything, it’s important to measure the window correctly to ensure the curtains fit properly.

1. Decide the curtain length – Measure the length of your window from where you plan to hang your rod to where you want the curtain to end. For a panel, this is generally just above the floor. If you plan to use an alternate curtain style, be sure to measure where the curtain fabric will end prior to hanging your rod.
2. Decide the curtain width – The fullness of the curtains is the amount of fabric needed to create gathers or pleats in the panel. A general rule is to multiply the width of the window by two or two-and-a-half to achieve a full and luxurious look. For a more simple, relaxed look one-and-a-half to two times is often adequate. You may need to purchase more than one premade curtain to fully cover wider windows.

Installing your farmhouse curtains

Want to make a small room feel bigger? Mounting the rod above the window frame creates the illusion of height. A standard height for hanging a rod is about 3-6 inches above the window frame. However, if you have a high ceiling or want to create the illusion of a taller space, you may want to hang the rod closer to the ceiling.

In addition, extending the rod a few inches beyond the sides of the window frame can make the window itself appear larger. If your window is on the narrow side, you can preserve the view and light by hanging the rod well outside of the window frame. This will ensure that most of the window remains visible and lots of light can come in!

For the perfect length, consider hanging your curtains so they just graze the floor. If you want a relaxed and romantic vibe, let them slightly puddle. No matter what look you’re trying to achieve, a good rule of thumb is to mount your hardware at least 3 inches up and 3 inches out from the top of your window molding.

Choosing the right fabric and hardware for your curtains

When selecting the fabric for your curtains, it’s essential to think about the atmosphere you’re trying to create. If your goal is to have natural light filtered through, light, sheer fabrics like cotton and linen are an excellent choice. They’re also ideal for creating a soft and dreamy atmosphere.

On the other hand, dark and heavy fabrics can make a room feel closed off and dreary. However, they are a good option if you’re trying to keep heat in the house or want to create a dark space for sleeping.

Once you choose your fabrics, it’s time to look at the hardware. To infuse your farmhouse-style curtains with a touch of rustic charm, consider incorporating wooden curtain rods, interesting rod finials, and wrought iron brackets. These small details can make a significant impact and add an element of authenticity to your decor. Make sure your curtain rod and brackets can support the weight of your curtains and are the right size for your window.

Find the perfect country curtains at Piper Classics

Hanging curtains in your home is not just a functional task; it also helps set the tone of your space and showcases your style. How you hang them, whether with back tabs, curtain clips, or rod pockets, can help you define the room even further. Do you want to update the farmhouse-inspired curtains in your home?

Shop our country curtains to bring warmth and texture into your home.

About the author

Written by Janine Bosh, Owner of Piper Classics

With decades of experience in home decor and design, I have a deep passion for creating beautiful, functional spaces that reflect personal style. From selecting the perfect colors and textures to curating timeless pieces, I love helping others bring their decorating visions to life.