Bay windows add architectural interest, expand your floor plan, and let in ample natural light. Because of their shape, it can be tricky to install curtains for bay windows. We've put together a list of step-by-step instructions to help you hang bay window curtains like a pro.

Project Overview

• Time: 2 hours
• Skill Level: Beginner
• Number of People Recommended: 2

What You’ll Need:

• Stepladder
• Measuring tape
• Pencil
• Level
• Stud finder (optional)
• Power drill & drill bits
• Drywall anchors (if needed)
• Curtain rods & brackets
• Curtains

Step 1: Measure the Bay Window Area

Because bay windows have an unusual shape, it's important to measure the size of each individual window as well as the distance between the windowsill and the floor. . You’ll need to decide if you want to use a set of curtains for each window or one pair of large curtains that can span the entire bay window. The curtains you choose should be a minimum of 1.5 times wider than the total width of the windows.

You also need to determine the ideal length of your curtains, which varies depending on your desired look. When deciding on length, keep in mind that curtains are typically mounted 4" – 6" above the top of the window.

Tip!

Need help deciding on the length of your curtains and curtain rods? Read How to Measure for Curtains and How to Measure for Curtain Rods for tips on choosing the right accessories.

Step 2: Choose the Type of Hardware

There are two options when it comes to bay window curtain hardware: bay window curtain rods or straight curtain rods. Bay window curtain rods are singular rods with an angled shape that matches the shape of the bay window. For straight rods, you can choose to hang a small one over each section of the bay window, or opt for one large one that spans the width of the bay window and is mounted on each side of the alcove.

Regardless of the type of rod you choose, you’ll need to secure them to the wall using mounting brackets. It’s important to choose brackets that are capable of supporting the weight of your curtain rods and drapery, though most curtain rods come with the corresponding mounting hardware.

Tip!

For a more renter-friendly approach, you can use tension rods to hang curtains. Rather than mounting the tension rods outside of the windows, secure the tension rod to fit between the two interior sides of the window frame.

Step 3: Mark Mounting Hardware Placement

To determine the position of straight curtain rod brackets, measure 4" – 6" above the window and then out to the edge of the frame. Typically, curtain rods extend beyond the width of the window frame, but in bay windows, the space between windows may not allow for this. Mark this spot with a pencil to indicate where to install the mounting hardware.

For a curved bay window rod, align the corners of the rod with the corners of the bay window area and then raise it 4" – 6" from the top of the frame. If you intend on mounting one long rod across the front of the window area, extend 2" past the bay opening on either side. With such a long rod, you may need to add additional brackets in the center for support. You may opt to use a stud finder and mount your curtains to wall studs for extra strength.

Using a level, make sure the marks you’ve made are level with each other so your curtains will hang straight when mounted.

Step 4: Install the Mounting Brackets

Using your pencil marks as guidelines, drill pilot holes for your mounting hardware. If you are drilling into a wall stud, start with a pilot hole that is smaller than the screw you will use to mount the brackets to ensure easy entry for the screw. In drywall, add an anchor to the pilot hole for added support. Line up the brackets against the new holes, add the screw, and drill to tighten the screws into the wall.

Step 5: Attach Curtains & Curtain Rods

Thread the curtain panels onto the curtain rod before mounting. This process will vary based on the type of curtains you have – you may have to attach clips or rings if your curtains don’t have built-in grommets or rod pockets. For a dramatic effect, add finials to the ends of your curtain rods after threading the fabric. Then, place the curtain rod securely on top of the mounting brackets and secure with screws if required. For a final touch, we recommend steaming the curtains to release any wrinkles.

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