We all know that drilling a new pair of holes for valances and swags can be an inconvenient task, especially if we neither have the time, skills, nor the tools for the job. Fortunately, there is a way on how to hang valance and curtains on one rod.
All you need is a whole new perspective on curtain layering techniques. We can use double-sided hooks to hang both your draperies and valances on a single rod. On the other hand, we can also utilize full-length sheer curtains and hang them as swags.
Double-sided hooks
These useful and decorative double-sided hooks are typically used in bathrooms to hang shower curtains. However, they do make a great solution for our double curtain problem. Get yourself a bunch of these double-sided hooks from your local store, and we can get started.
Step 1: Hang your rod
Install your single rod brackets at four to six inches above the top window sill. Make sure to double-check the measurements to avoid hanging a crooked rod. Once you have the rod brackets in place, hang your rod.
Step 2: Get your hooks.
A double-sided hook can come in a variety of colors and designs. Most of them are plain or made from simple stainless steel. Don’t worry because you can customize them by using spray paint.
Do not confuse double hooks with double-sided hooks. A double hook takes an “S” shape with one hook at the top to hang on the rod, while the other hook lies at the bottom. The hardware we are looking for has three hooks—one at the top and two at the bottom on both sides. Hence, the name–a double-sided hook.
Place them on the rod and secure its placements. Make the spaces between each hook equal to support the fabric without giving it an imbalance or sagging appearance. You can secure the hooks in place using some cable ties or other items that will prevent the hooks from moving freely.
Step 3: Prepare your curtains.
When learning how to hang valance and curtains on one rod, let’s start with curtains since they will go at the rear side of the hook. Make sure you are using tab curtains or have already attached your drapery pin hooks before moving on to this step. Rod-pocket curtains won’t be able to hang themselves on the hooks.
Lay your curtain so that the top part faces you. Using your drapery pin hooks, attach it at the bottom of the curtain’s top hem at the right side of the fabric. Don’t worry because the valance will cover up the drapery pin hooks.
Place all the pins at equal distances apart. You might also want to consider the distances between the hooks that are already on the rod. Use your measuring tape as a guide. Do the same method for your valance curtains if necessary but place the drapery pins at the back.
Step 4: Hang your curtains
Take the long drapes and hook them onto the rear side of the hook. It should be the one closer to the window. Hang your panels in a closed curtain type of look. We can open them up using tie-backs instead of sliding them open and shut.
Ensure that your double panel curtains look full and not flat when you hang them onto the hook. If your drapery pin hooks are in the wrong place, you can always remove them and start again.
Step 5: Hang your valances
If you already prepared your valances in step three, we can proceed to hang them. Do the same procedure as step four. Carefully hook each drapery pin onto the double-sided hook. Make your valances look full by adding soft pleats.
Tips: Use elegant-looking tiebacks to open your curtains and allow light to fill the room. You can also install a pair of holdbacks to tie your curtains to the side. Remember that this method doesn’t allow you to slide your curtains open and shut.
Other methods
If an unmovable curtain and valance tip doesn’t work for you, you can always try window scarves or swag valances. That way, you still get to slide your curtains around when you hang them using clip rings.
You can also try a double panel valance curtain and curtain. Hang both pieces of fabric using clip rings so that you can open and close them as you please. However, you only get to move them as a whole panel, including one curtain and one valance, not separately.
Another brilliant idea is to use bungee cords or ropes as a proxy rod. Attach the cord onto the bracket and hang your curtains on the cord using typical curtain hardware. Place your valances on the front row, and no one can tell the difference.
The valance curtains serve their purpose at hiding curtain hardware, so you don’t have to worry about your visitors spotting some out-of-place bungee cords and ropes. Don’t be afraid to style your curtains using tiebacks, holdbacks, and other decorative items.
Summary
We have to admit that not everyone has the patience to install two drapery rods. In some cases, they probably want to see how layered curtains look. Regardless of the reason, there are many ways to switch up our window treatments without a double rod or bracket.
Luckily, learning how to hang valance and curtains on one rod is a good place to start. Try experimenting with different curtain layerings when you make the most out of a variety of common household items and curtain hardware.