Guaranteed Perfect Curtain Length with Easy "Paper Test" Method
Spicing Up Your Space: A Guide to Curtain Length and Hanging Tips
Key Takeaways:
- For an aesthetic touch and a touch of personal flair, curtains are a must-have in any home, regardless of size.
- Knowing the right length for your curtains is crucial. While the general rule is for them to "kiss" the floor for a sleek, tailored look, you can experiment with different lengths depending on the ambiance you aim to create.
- When selecting the ideal length for your curtains, consider factors such as household makeup (pets, children) and the formality of your space.
- Learning the pro tips for hanging curtains will help you achieve a polished, professional look in your home.
Unlocking the Mystery: Length is an essential aspect when it comes to curtains, and just like settling on the right style, determining the ideal length can be challenging. We reached out to two esteemed interior designers, Amy Switzer and Shay Holland, to get the lowdown on the perfect length and the dos and don'ts of hanging curtains.
- Amy Switzer, an accomplished interior designer and the brain behind her own line of chic velvet curtains, had this to say: "Ideally, you want your curtains to gently touch the floor and give a polished look." Options for a more dramatic or traditional feel include curtains with 1 to 4 inches of extra fabric — creating a "puddle effect."
- Shay Holland, a well-known interior designer and HGTV host, suggested, "Informal spaces are not conducive to voluminous amounts of material puddled on the floor." For a more laid-back aesthetic, aim for curtains that skim the floor or stop just short of it.
Pro Tips for Choosing and Hanging Curtains:
1. Wide Curtains, Please:Avoid drapes that are too narrow. Strive for panels that extend completely off the window when open. As a handy guideline, aim for panels that are 2 to 2.5 times the width of the window for optimal fullness.
2. Be Bold with Measurements:Equally important is the height at which you'll install the rod. Measure the distance from the floor to where you want to place the rod, taking into account any additional height added by curtain rings or clips. It is essential to measure in multiple spots in case the floor is uneven. Always position the rod at least 4 to 8 inches above the window frame. For a more modern feel or to create the illusion of higher ceilings, try hanging the top of the drapes as close to the ceiling as possible.
3. Height and Style Match:The makeup of your household should also factor into your decision about curtain length. In homes with pets or children, opt for curtains that skim the floor or stop just short of it to prevent them from becoming a target for tugging, chewing, or staining.
12 Fabulous Curtain Ideas to Try in Your Space
[1] For main living areas, floor-length curtains between 84" and 96" create a refined, formal look, with ideally just a half-inch space between the floor and the hem.
[1] Similar to living rooms, opt for floor-length or almost floor-length curtains in bedrooms for a restful, soothing atmosphere. Blackout curtains may benefit from some extra length to block out light completely.
[1] Use an apron-style (84" long) for windows in the bathroom and kitchen that are frequently opened.
[1] For a more formal ambiance in the dining room, consider using puddle-style curtains around 108" long.
By adhering to these recommendations, ensure your curtains don't just complement your home's design but also add a polished touch to your space.
- Realsimple offers decorating tips and techniques for selecting the ideal length for curtains in your home, recommending options that range from a sleek, tailored look to more dramatic or traditional styles.
- When decorating your home, considering household factors such as pets and children can help you choose the perfect curtain length to prevent them from becoming damaged.
- Pro tips for hanging curtains include installing wide panels that extend completely off the window when open, selecting the right height for the rod, and positioning the rod at least 4 to 8 inches above the window frame.
- Informal spaces may not be suitable for voluminous amounts of fabric puddling on the floor, according to Shay Holland, a well-known interior designer and HGTV host.
- Decorating your home with curtains can add a polished touch to your interior-design and lifestyle, as suggested by Amy Switzer, an accomplished interior designer who specializes in chic velvet curtains.
- Curtain ideas to try in your space include floor-length curtains in main living areas and bedrooms, apron-style curtains for windows in the bathroom and kitchen, and puddle-style curtains in formal dining rooms for a more traditional feel.
