As recently as a week ago, my bedroom window didn’t have curtains. What it did have as the covering was a drab thin, woven blanket that was nailed onto the wall. Before you ultimately judge and decide that I am not worthy of writing a blog about interior design, I’ll explain. When we first moved into this apartment, all the windows were empty. I discovered that choosing window treatments was among the most daunting design decisions for a first-time designer. The first few weeks, towels and blankets were hanging over the windows, which was an incredibly unpleasant view to behold. In the end, I bought appropriate curtain panels for the living areas that we use daily, but because of anxiety over design, I decided not to bother with the window for the bedroom until I was certain of what the plan of design would be for the space. I admittedly was a bit cheap and lazy, and a blanket served as our curtains for three years. Then, last week, I had enough and bought a real curtain rod, as well as curtains for our tiny, neglected bedroom window. I don’t really need to describe the impact it’s made on my mental and emotional health. We are now in complete privacy, and I don’t have to look away and pretend that the window isn’t there. All of this is to say that selecting the ideal window treatments could be a daunting and tangled process. It’s an enormous investment or design decision; therefore, if you’re finding it difficult to make the right choice, you’re not alone. The first step is to accept, and the next step is to choose the appropriate dimension and design of the curtain rod to meet your needs.

There are many window treatments available (Roman shades, blinds, shutters, and so on); however, if you’re planning to hang curtains, there are some guidelines you need to be aware of:

Be sure to have the correct tools before you start. For most curtain rods, you’ll require an electric drill, the appropriate diameter drill bit (depending upon the diameter of your screw), and a stud finder as well as a measuring tape. Based on how heavy your curtains are, you might require an anchor for your wall that is strong as well. Sometimes, hanging curtains in the correct method takes a few attempts and a couple of different options (this is based on experiences). You can also rent out!

Don’t put your curtain rod directly over the window. Ideally, your curtain rod should be placed about 2/3 of that distance from your ceiling to the window.

If the space is available, the curtain rod can be 10-12 inches longer than the window on either side. When measuring, be sure to take this into consideration when determining the length you’ll need your curtain rod to have.

Be sure that your curtains aren’t too tall or too small. We recommend that your curtains “kiss” the floor.

Here’s a great image to remind you of the steps:

CURTAIN RODS BY SIZE

Curtain Rod We like the sleek design of this rod, and users claim it’s sturdy and easy to set up.

Ball finial curtain rod set Ball finials is a classic, and it comes in matte black as well as polished nickel as well.

Boule Black Curtain Rod This contemporary meets conventional curtain rod is beautiful.

Cole Curtain Rod The ridged finial provides a beautiful texture to this glam and luxurious rod (and it is available in black! ).

3/4 Singles Curtain Rod Set with Round Finials It’s an affordable choice that is available in a variety of finishes.

Standard Curtain Rod Here’s a budget-friendly standard black rod with fantastic reviews.

Matte Black Ball Finial Curtain Rod The classic matte black curtain rod with ball finials is incredibly versatile.

3/4” French Rod: We are awestruck by the look of a French return curtain rod, and this one made by Rejuvenation comes in three stunning colors.

Bridgette Curtain Rod The plate-like circular design on this rod gives it a cool, modern style.

French Return Drapery Hardware Set: Caitlin cannot stop from raving about the curtain rod she bought for her living room window. She claims that it’s stunning and very cheap for the high quality.

Double Curtain Rod and Large Marble Round End Cap Double rod is required when you are looking to create a blackout curtain for your window, and the marble finial is gorgeous.

The Hidden Connection room darkening Curtain Rod This casting iron French return rod blends a rustic look and feel with a contemporary look and is available in a range of styles and finishes.

Matte Black Curtain Rod in Blackout: Jess had this one in her living room in the past and was in love with how it was styled.

French Curtain Rod – Project 62(TM): Here is a modern and affordable curtain rod that’s slim and sleek, but it can also hold up to 25 lbs.

French Retour Curtain Rod Matte Black: This is a very classic, inexpensive alternative.

Dauntless Curtain Rod The one I chose is the lucky winner, which replaced my previous blanket over the window. I’m so happy that this is the one I was able to find at Target because it’s robust and appears high-end.

Bolt Matte Black Rod If you’re looking for an innovative, contemporary shape, take a look.

Simple Curtain Rod, We are in love with the wraparound bracket design on this curtain rod is simple.

Rustic Curtain Rod Another inexpensive option that is available in a range of lengths!

The Oversized, Adjustable Curtain Rod with Cylinder Finials It is an elegant and timeless curtain rod that looks great in any space.4. Swoop Curtain Blackout Rod – Dark Bronze: The curve of this rod is truly unique.

Hillcrest Drapery Rope The wood finial, coupled with the bronze finish in oil, creates a stunning look.

Cg Matte Black Curtain Rod to conclude our options of premade curtain rods. We have this basic yet sturdy curtain rod that is available in seven different colors (and includes an adjustable bracket that wraps around to add an interesting modern accent).

CUSTOM OPTIONS

Certain window shapes and sizes aren’t suitable to be covered by pre-made curtains. Luckily, we are aware of a variety of companies that design and manufacture amazing customized window treatments. Here are a few of our top picks:

Wovn Home: In my living room, I have Roman shades and curtains that I purchased from Wovn Home, and I am in love with the curtains and Roman shades. The quality is exceptional, and customizing their website is a breeze.

Shade Store: Shade Store: The Shade Store does custom shades, blinds, shades, and drapery and also handles installation.

Decorview We’ve used Decorview for many rooms and projects, including our Farmhouse, Mountain House, Portland project, and Jess’ office/living room. We couldn’t be more pleased with their professionalism and quality!

Etsy: Etsy offers a wide range of shops offering personalized window treatments. It’s an excellent option when you are looking to help small-scale businesses.

Everhem: Everhem is a brand based in Los Angeles that offers customized curtains and Roman Shades. If you’re worried about measuring, they’ll arrange for someone who will measure you.