Mastering the Art of Window Treatments: A Guide on How to Hang Drapes

Window treatments are the jewelry of a room. They can completely transform a space, adding warmth, elegance, and a polished finishing touch. But a beautiful set of drapes is only as effective as its installation. Getting the height, width, and overall look just right can be the difference between a custom, designer-quality space and a room that feels unfinished. For homeowners in the Kennewick, WA Tri-Cities area, mastering the art of hanging drapes is a skill that can instantly elevate your home's interior. 

 

This comprehensive guide from the experts at Murley's Floor Covering will walk you through the process, from the crucial planning phase to the final touches, ensuring your drapes look flawless.

 

 

Before You Begin: The Planning Phase

 

Before you even think about drilling a single hole, the key to success lies in proper planning. Taking the time to measure and choose the right components will save you from common mistakes and guarantee a professional, high-end result.

 

Measure Your Windows with Precision

 

• Window Width: Measure the width of your window frame from one side to the other. To make your window appear larger and more substantial, your curtain rod should extend beyond the window frame. A general rule of thumb is to add at least 6-12 inches on each side of the window. This allows the drapes to sit completely off the glass when open, maximizing natural light and making the window look bigger.
• Window Height: Measure from the floor up to the top of your window frame. This will help you determine the ideal mounting height for your curtain rod. A common mistake is to hang the rod just above the window. For a more elegant and grand look, mount the rod 4-6 inches above the window frame, or even closer to the ceiling. This draws the eye upward, making the ceilings feel higher.

 

Choose the Right Rod and Drapery Length

 

Based on your measurements, you can now select your hardware and drapes.

 

• Rod Length: Your rod should be the window width plus the extra inches you decided on for each side. Most rods are adjustable, but it's important to choose one that can accommodate your total desired length without being fully extended, as this can cause the rod to sag in the middle.
• Drapery Width: For a full, luxurious look, your drapes should be 2 to 3 times the width of your window. This ensures they have enough fullness when closed, rather than looking taut and stretched. For example, for a 36-inch window with a 6-inch extension on each side (totaling 48 inches), you would want drapes with a combined width of at least 96 inches.
• Drapery Length: This is a key design choice. There are three common lengths:
• The "Kiss the Floor" Look: The drape hem just grazes the floor. This creates a clean, classic, and tailored look.
• The "Puddle" Look: The drape fabric pools on the floor for a few inches. This is a more romantic, luxurious, and dramatic style, but can be a tripping hazard and requires more maintenance.
• The "Float" Look: The hem hangs about an inch above the floor. This is a more modern, practical look that works well for drapes that will be opened and closed frequently, as it prevents dragging and damage.

 

The Step-by-Step Guide on How to Hang Drapes

 

With your materials chosen and your measurements in hand, you're ready to get to work.

 

Step 1: Mark Your Bracket Placement

 

• Hold the curtain rod (with finials attached) up to the window to visualize the placement.
• Using a pencil, mark the spot for each bracket on the wall. Remember, the top of the rod should be 4-6 inches above the window frame and 6-12 inches beyond the sides.
• Use a level to ensure your marks are perfectly straight. Nothing looks worse than crooked drapes.

 

Step 2: Install the Brackets

 

• Drill a pilot hole at each of your marks.
• If you're not drilling into a stud, you must use wall anchors to provide stability and prevent the brackets from pulling out of the drywall over time. Drapes can be surprisingly heavy.
• Securely fasten the brackets to the wall.

 

Step 3: Assemble the Rod and Drapes

 

• Slide the drapes onto the rod. Make sure they are facing the correct direction and that any hooks or rings are properly attached.
• For a traditional, professional look, place one ring on the outside of the bracket to keep the end of the drape permanently positioned there.
• Attach the finials to the ends of the rod.

 

Step 4: Place the Rod on the Brackets

 

• Carefully lift the assembled rod and place it into the brackets.
• Secure the rod in the brackets if your hardware requires it.
• Arrange your drapes neatly on the rod, ensuring the folds are evenly spaced.

 

Advanced Tips for a Polished, Professional Look

 

The Double-Rod Technique: For a truly custom feel, use a double rod. The inner rod can hold sheers for light filtering and privacy, while the outer rod holds your main drapes.

 

Steaming is Non-Negotiable: Drapes fresh out of the package will be wrinkled and creased. Before you hang them, or right after, use a steamer to smooth out all the wrinkles. This simple step makes a monumental difference.

 

Consider Traverse Rods: For very heavy drapes, or drapes that you open and close every day, a traverse rod (with a pulley system) is an excellent, durable option.

 

The Importance of Quality: While this guide focuses on the "how-to," the quality of your drapes and hardware is equally important. Choosing high-quality fabrics and sturdy rods will ensure your window treatments look beautiful and last for years.

 

 

Transform Your Home with the Right Floors and Finishes

 

While drapes add the final touch, the foundation of a beautiful room is the flooring. At Murley's Floor Covering, we understand that every detail, from the ground up, contributes to the perfect space. Our showroom in Kennewick, WA, offers a wide selection of flooring to serve as the perfect foundation for your home's new look. 

 

Call or Visit Murley's Floor Covering. We have a showroom location in Kennewick, WA. We service the areas of Kennewick, WA. We've been serving the Tri-Cities area with beautiful floors and top-notch services since 2005.