Mastering the Art of Impeccable Drapes: Designer Tips and Tricks to Hang Curtains Like a Pro

I can't help but reference Captain Underpants here (as a boy mom of two) because curtains do have transformative effects, just like Mr. Krupp's cape would have you believe! Hang gauzy diaphanous drapes to evoke an ethereal vibe or heavy velvet to queue the drama. It is all about setting the mood. However, off-the-rack drapes don't always hit the mark, and depending on the scope of your project, by the time the windows get addressed, there Is little budget left. Thankfully, there are some tricks you can employ to make store-bought drapes do a little extra work for you, and it is my pleasure to share with you some clever techniques that do just that. Depending on the size of your window, it might require some sewing, but the effort will be well worth it.

Tip # 1 - Hang Curtains High and Wide

Mount your curtain hardware as close to the ceiling as possible unless you have vaulted ceilings, in which case hang them 12" - 18" above the window. Longer panels that kiss the floor will make your space appear taller and more dramatic. Extend rods past your

window casing by at least a foot where the space is available. Doing this allows panels to hang outside the window opening when pushed aside, letting the maximum amount of daylight in.

Tip # 2 - Maximum Fullness

Measure the width of the window you would like to cover and multiply that by 1.5. Your curtain panels should be at least that wide. If they aren't, buy a second set and piece them together. If they are unlined, I recommend using a French seam, which will conceal the raw edges within the seam, leaving no unsightly loose threads. A French seam may sound très tricky, but it is pretty straightforward. First, pin your panels together with the wrong sides facing in. Sew the panels together using a 3/8" seam allowance, then trim half of the excess seam allowance away. Press the seam allowance flat and to one side. Fold the fabric with the right sides together. Now, the wrong sides should be facing out where you will be stitching, and then stitch again using a 1/4" seam allowance to encase the raw edge. Press the seam to one side to finish.

Tip # 3 - Apply Pleater Tape to the Top Edge

To create the look of custom pleated drapes, apply pleater tape to the top edge of your curtains. Once this is applied, you can create many different pleat styles using four-pronged pleater hooks.

Tip # 4 - Use Drapery Hooks

When drapes are made of a thick fabric, you can order drapery hooks and pierce them through the backside of the fabric to be inserted into drapery rings or, better yet, a traverse rod. Traverse rods make opening and closing your curtains a breeze and are probably one of the simplest tricks to elevate your look instantly.

Tip # 5 - Use a Ceiling-mounted Traverse Track

For a thoroughly modern look, my go-to is a ceiling-mounted traverse track. These are especially great because they are versatile when it comes to sizing. Purchase a track one size up from your desired length and trim it to fit your exact specifications.

For this project, multiple tricks were employed to enhance the final appearance. I pieced two individual panels together to make wider overall panels. In this picture, both finished panels are pushed to one side of the sliding door, but I wanted to give the option to split them and move them to either side of the door as well. When pushed to one side, the opening between the panels is hidden by the drapes' fullness. I love how the drapes soften and enhance the space, concealing the cold blank wall and creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

After piecing the panels together, I applied pleater tape to the top edge and created pleats using four-pronged pleater hooks. Once applied, these hooks were inserted into the carriers on the ceiling-mounted traverse track.

Tip # 6 - Train Your Drapes

I promise that teaching your curtains to behave just how you want them to will be much easier than the effort required to train your dog. Be sure to press your drapes flat before hanging. Once hung, use a steamer to banish any remaining wrinkles. Then, starting at the top, gather the pleats together, folding the fabric on itself how you would like it to fall. Use ribbon to secure the fabric in position and let gravity do its work for 48 hours. When you remove your ribbons, you will have polite drapes

That's all, folks. I've reached the bottom of my bag of tricks. With these tips, you can tackle dressing any window in your home. If you are still uncertain or don't have the time, I am ready and waiting to assist you. Click here to schedule a consultation with me. Please share your pics of projects on Instagram and tag @whitwillowinteriors. If you have any questions or comments, share them below. Happy decorating!