Curtain rods are typically made to fit on windows that have a standard shape and size. But what about those odd-shaped windows? Hanging curtains in these areas are not impossible, but it can be tricky. If you’re wondering how to hang curtains on odd shaped windows, read this article for some helpful tips!
Tips for Hanging Curtains on Oddly Shaped Windows
Tip 1. The first thing you need to do is measure the window and calculate how much fabric you’ll need. You can use a yard of fabric if it’s an average-sized space, but curtains are usually made from multiple yards when they’re larger than standard size windows.
Tip 2. Hang the rod on the window and measure how far it sticks out from the wall. Use that measurement as a guide for where you’ll need to attach your brackets or hooks to get curtains of equal length on both sides of the window.
Tip 3. If you’re using brackets, use two per side – one at each end of the rod. Hang the brackets on either side of a window frame, then use screws to attach them securely to the wall.
Be sure that the brackets are level and spaced evenly apart from each other so your curtains hang straight down without any gaps in between; you may need someone else’s help for this part if it’s an oddly shaped space with lots of angles.
Tip 4. If you’re using hooks, use two per side – one at each end of the rod. Hang your curtain pole on either side of a window frame with brackets or screws, then hang your curtains to fit in between them.
Be sure that they drape straight down without any gaps in between and check for even spacing at both ends of the rod; you may need someone else’s help for this part if it’s an oddly shaped space with lots of angles.
Tip 5. When your curtains are too long to fit in a straight line, fold them up and hang at different lengths on either side of the window frame.
For example, drape one curtain over each end so that the bottom of the curtains hang at the same level.
Tip 6. If you’re using a rod, place one or two brackets on either side of the window frame and screw them tightly into place before hanging your curtain pole in between – this is how most homeowners are used to hanging their curtains.
Note: If you want to buy some new curtains, measure the window before you go to the store so that you know how long your curtains should be.
How to care for Curtains
- Be sure to vacuum the curtains at least once a month.
- It’s not necessary to wash them every time you vacuum, but be aware that over time dirt will build upon your curtains and they’ll look dingy. When this happens it might be wise to take them down for washing or dry cleaning.
How to Hang Curtains
Step 1. When you’ve measured your window, buy the right length curtains.
Step 2. You should always start with one curtain rod and screw it into place on either side of the window frame before hanging the other sides. You can then link all three rods together using a metal clip (most hardware stores sell these).
Step 3. Next, place the rod’s brackets on either side of the window frame and then screw them into place.
Step 4. When you’ve hung your curtains, don’t forget to check that they are at least a few inches below the bottom of the curtain rods so that when it rains water doesn’t drip in from outside.
Step 5. If your curtain rods are thicker than the space of your window, you can use a wider rod.
When this is not an option then try to find a way to attach some extra brackets on either side so that the curtains drape nicely and don’t look awkward.
What type of Rod Should I use to Hang Curtains on odd Shaped Window?
The type of rod you use to hang curtains will depend on the size and shape of your window.
If there is a lot of space in between the windowsill, then a tension rod would be ideal as these are easy to install without any brackets or screws.
They also come with clips that allow them to attach securely onto the inside of the windowsill.
A rod that is too thin could make it difficult to hang curtains and as such a thicker one would be more appropriate for this type of window, with brackets on either side to give stability.
Another option you have is using curtain tiebacks which are long pieces of fabric or ribbon attached at each corner of the window.
The tiebacks are then tied back onto themselves to create a looped curtain rod with which you can hang your curtains.
Rod type: Tension rods, Brackets, clips, or Curtain tiebacks?
Tension rods work well for odd-shaped windows as they’re easy to install without any brackets or screws and they’re also flexible which means they can move with the window.
Brackets would be another option, but if you have wide windows then they may not provide enough stability for your curtains to hang well.
There are clips that attach onto the inside of a window sill and work in much the same way as tension rods do except without any flex.
Curtain tiebacks are made from fabric or ribbon that attaches onto the top of two vertical rods (typically tension) and then hangs down to form loops. They’re the best solution if you want your curtains to cover different heights on your window sill.