How to Hang Café Curtains
Keep your privacy and let the light in.
Café curtains are a charming way to add privacy and style to your home without blocking all the natural light. These half-length curtains cover only the lower portion of the window, letting sunshine in while providing just the right amount of coverage. Unsure how to install yours? Keep reading for a step-by-step overview of how to hang café curtains like a pro.
Tip!
Browse our guide on What a Cafe Curtain Is for even more information on this trendy window treatment.
How to Hang Café Curtains
(Shop this image: Café curtains, kitchen canisters & jars, faux flowers, and subway floor & wall tile)
Time: 1 hour
Skill Level: Beginner
Number of People: 1 to 2
What You'll Need
- Measuring tape
- Pencil
- Level
- Curtain rod (standard or tension)
- Mounting brackets (if using a standard rod)
- Power drill & drill bits
- Wall anchors (if needed)
- Screws
- Café curtains
- Ring clips or grommets (if your curtains don’t have a rod pocket)
1. Measure Your Windows
Begin by measuring the width and height of your window. Café curtains typically hang halfway down, so measure from the top of the window to the midpoint. The curtain rod should sit slightly above the halfway point to achieve a balanced look, usually 2 inches higher.
For width, choose curtains that are 1.5 to 2 times the width of the window to create a full and gathered appearance when closed. If your windows get lots of direct sunlight, consider sheer or lightweight linen café curtains to diffuse light without darkening the area.
2. Choose the Right Curtain Rod
Either use a standard café curtain rod mounted with brackets or a tension rod for a no-drill, tile surface- and renter-friendly option.
Mounting rods are available in a variety of sizes and finishes. Select one that complements your curtain fabric and existing hardware.
3. Mark Your Mounting Points
Use a pencil to mark where your brackets or tension rod will sit. Measure an equal distance from the windowsill on both sides, keeping your markings level.
If you’re mounting brackets, position them roughly 2 inches above the desired curtain height. Check your markings with a level to ensure the rod will evenly hang.
4. Install the Rod or Brackets
If you’re using wall-mounted brackets:
- Drill pilot holes at your pencil marks to guide your screws and prevent the wall from cracking.
- Add wall anchors if you’re not drilling into studs to give the brackets extra support and help them hold the weight of the curtains.
- Secure your brackets to the wall with screws, ensuring they’re level and tightly fastened before adding the rod.
If you're using a tension rod:
- Adjust the rod length so it fits snugly inside the window frame.
- Twist or extend the rod until it feels firmly in place, checking that it’s straight and even before hanging your curtains.
5. Hang Your Café Curtains
Depending on your style, thread your curtains onto the rod through a rod pocket, ring clips, or grommets. Set the rod onto the brackets, or inside the frame if you’re using a tension rod. Adjust the gathers evenly and smooth out the fabric for a neat finish. Then, you’re all done!
