A Guide to Hanging Curtain Panels - Choosing Your Curtain Style, How to Measure for Curtains, and more

I had always thought hanging curtain panels would be a daunting task, that is, until I actually took the time do so and figured out they were much easier than I ever imagined. Not only do they transform a room instantly, but they're a rather inexpensive way to spruce up the designated area without going over your budget. Here is a quick guide on how to choose your look, measure for the amount of curtains needed, and hanging your curtain panels.



Step 1. Choose your style. Narrow down your search by deciding upon the color, pattern, and fabric before heading to the store to avoid being overwhelmed with the infinite amount of choices. For modern spaces you may want to choose bolder colors or patterns, while traditional spaces may call for subdue hues and fabrics like burlap or satin.

above: Ballard Designs Firenze Embroidered Panels

Step 2. Determine the function of your curtains. Will your curtains be for decorative purposes only, or will they be functional curtains in order to keep things like sun light out and enforce privacy? Knowing the function of your curtains will help you determine the amount of panels you will need in the following steps.



Step 3. Measure window and determine width of rod. Now that you've decided on style and function, the next step is to measure your window in order to calculate the amount of panels you'll need. Measure the width of your window and add 2 to 4 inches to each side to determine the length of your rod.

above: Pottery Barn Dupioni Silk Pole Pocket Drape

Step 4. Calculating the amount of panels needed (width). For functional curtains, calculate 2 to 3 times the width of your window and use that number to determine the amount of panels needed. For decorative curtains, determine amount of panels based on desired fullness.



Step 5. Calculating the length of each panel (height). Depending on your liking, place the rod anywhere from 2 to 4 inches above your window frame and measure the length from rod to floor. The higher the rod is placed, the more height will be added to your room. Standard curtains fall roughly 1/2 to 1 inch off the ground for dust purposes. Anything shorter will have look out of sorts (think high-water jeans). For a dramatic look, you can allow the curtains to "pool" by adding 6" to 10" to the length.



Quick tips:

-Rods should extend outward 2 to 4 inches on each side of the window and upward 2 to 4 (or as high 8"+) above the top of window frame

-Measure the width of the window and calculate it by 1 to 3 times to determine amount of panels needed, depending on function and desired fullness

- Standard panel curtain length stops roughly an inch above the ground; pooled curtains extend 6" to 10"

photos via Pinterest