Curtains can enhance interior style, add visual height to ceilings, filter natural light, and increase privacy, so it's no wonder they're essential to the function and aesthetic appeal of your home. Don’t let the challenge of hanging curtains keep you from using them in your home. Read on for five easy steps to hanging curtains like a pro.

Project Overview

• Time: 1–2 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 rod & brackets
• Curtains

Step 1: Measure for Curtains & Curtain Rods

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Before you begin, you want to ensure that the curtains and hardware you have chosen will fit the size of your window. Make sure to record your measurements to make shopping for the correct size easy.

Measure the width of your window and select curtains that are 1.5 to 3 times wider to ensure full coverage. To determine length, decide whether you want them to hover just above the floor, brush the floor, or pool elegantly, then add 4" – 6" to the length to factor in mounting height. For a more in-depth instructions on choosing the right size curtains, read our guide How to Measure for Curtains.

To choose the right size curtain rod, measure the width of your window and add 6" – 12" on both sides to allow the curtains to fully open. Ensure the rod's diameter is sturdy enough to support the curtain weight – typically 3/4" – 1" for standard curtains and 1" or more for heavier drapes. For additional guidance, read How to Measure for Curtain Rods.

Step 2: Mark Your Bracket Placement

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Typically, a curtain rod is mounted 4" – 6" above your window frame. However, to make your room feel taller, you can hang curtains anywhere between 6" – 12" above the window frame. Read How High to Hang Curtains in Your Home for more information to help you determine ideal bracket height to achieve your desired drapery look. Brackets should also be placed at least 2" wider than the window frame on both sides.

Using a measuring tape, find the desired height and spacing for your curtain brackets and mark the screw holes with a pencil on either side of the window. Then use a level to ensure alignment of the brackets before drilling the holes.

Optional Step: You may choose to use a stud finder to identify studs in your walls. If you can, mount the brackets directly to the studs for extra strength. Otherwise, you can opt to use drywall anchors for added support.

Step 3: Install the Mounting Brackets

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Next, align your brackets with the marks on your walls and prepare to screw them on. If you opted to mount directly to studs or use drywall anchors, you’ll need to drill a small pilot hole first and push in the anchors before screwing. Using your drill and the provided screws, secure your brackets to the designated spots on the wall. Before you tighten them all the way, it may be a good idea to double check their placement with your level.

Step 4: Attach Your Curtains to the Rod

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Before you hang the curtain rod, it’s easiest to attach the curtains first. This process will vary depending on the style curtain you have. If your curtains come with built-in grommets or rod pockets you should be able to easily slide the curtain panels onto the rod. For rods with decorative finials, you’ll have to unscrew one side in order to thread the rod through the curtain.
Otherwise, you'll need a set of curtain rings with clips or hooks to secure the top of the curtain panels to the rod.

Step 5: Mount the Curtain Rod

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Once your curtains are strung, position the rod over the brackets on the wall. Secure them with setting screws if needed, otherwise they will simply rest on the brackets. Step back and double check that the curtains are level and at the proper height. Make any final adjustments needed, including steaming your new curtains for a clean, wrinkle-free look. Congratulations, you’ve successfully installed your curtains!

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