6 Simple Steps on How To Hang Curtains On Arched Window

One of the emphasized features on a doorway or a window is an arch. When you have an arched window, there are different options of window treatments you can choose. This article will teach you how to hang curtains on arched windows.

You can use flexible curtain rods to hang your curtains from up the arch. You should know that it is not always compulsory that your treatments cover the window completely.

how to hang curtains on arched window

Usually, the window arch is very high, which provides you the opportunity of covering the bottom of your window to give privacy when you need it, but the top of the window remains exposed. 

 

6 Steps on How to Hang Curtains on Arched Windows

To start, you will need to get the following materials ready; 

  • Tape measure
  • Curtain fabric
  • Curtain rods
  • Level
  • Pencil
  • Plastic wall anchors
  • Screws

Step #1: Measure for Custom Curtain

On these steps on how to hang curtains on arched windows, you start by deciding on the exact spot you would want to install your curtain rod. Ideally, it should be at about ⅛ inch on top of the point where the straight vertical side of your window meets the arch’s curve. 

Start your measurement from the point you will install your curtain rod down to where you prefer for your curtain to fall, which is at the window sill.

It could be below the sill by up to 4 inches or reaching the floor. Then add 12 inches to your measurements so that you can give fabric for the top and bottom hem of your curtain. Write down your measurements as the needed length for your curtain. 

Step #2; Measure the Width of the Window

Take your measurements from one side of your window frame to the other side. You will add about 6 to 8 inches to the measurements of the width. This measurement will also be according to the curtain rod return you have for both sides.

The rod returns mean the distance the curtain rod has from the wall. In general, it is 3 inches for lightweight fabrics, and for heavier fabrics, it is 4 inches. Then you will add the fullness allowance so that when your curtain hangs, it will fold properly.

Multiply the total measurements you took for the width by three if you use sheer fabrics or for your curtain, two and a half for fabric with medium weight, and use 2 for heavy curtain fabric. Add extra 6 inches as side hem allowance. Please write it down as required width. 

Step #3: Cutting

Cut your curtain fabric to the required length and width measurements you have recorded. Sew your curtain in your desired design to match the specific measurements you took. To give you your preferred fullness, including the hems. 

Step 4: Hang the Curtain

Now, this is how to hang curtains on arched windows when you continue with these steps. Using a level, you can make sure that you hang the curtain rod straight.

Use this level to note a straight line on both sides of the arched were, marking it about ⅛ inch on top of the point where the straight sides of the window end.

Like this, you can cover the bottom of the window. Place your bracket on the line you would place your rod—Mark out the points for each screw. The points will go with a pencil. Do this for each bracket. 

Where you have marked with your pencil, drill in pilot holes, then place plastic wall anchors inside those holes.

Place the bracket on the pilot holes and fasten it into place with screws. Start from the hole on top. Do the same for each bracket. 

Insert the curtain rod through the rod sleeve on top of the curtain panel. Then, you hang the curtain rod on the secured brackets. If you desire, you can add tieback hardware.

 

How do I Hang Curtains When the Window is at the top of the Wall?

You can use Hardware-free hooks. Place the hooks on the top corners of your window or any close wall surfaces and drop your rod into the hooks now used as brackets.

However, it would help if you used only a lighter rod with sheer curtain fabrics to prevent damage. This method has a slight difference from the steps on how to hang curtains on arched windows above.

 

Conclusion

While working on how to hang curtains on arched windows, you need to note these tips;  

  • For windows that are pretty heavy or heavy rods, you may have to install wall anchors that will allow you to mount your brackets tightly to the wall.    
  • Ensure that you place your curtains on the rod. In case your curtains have bigger eyeholes, insert the rod through its openings. If not, fix your curtain panels to the curtain rods using curtain rings or clips.  

With arched windows, it does not only allow for natural light to enter your room every time, but it also makes an attractive room design.

Your top pick should be a custom-made curtain panel. You can make this on your own or order from a custom curtains shop.

Whatever you opt for, you must take accurate measurements of the arched window and install the curtain when ready to hang your custom curtain panel.