Installing Sheer Curtains and a Valance

Shear curtains don't block the light like heavier curtains do.

Windows let in light and provide a pleasant view of the outside world. Unfortunately, while allowing you to look out, windows also allow others to look in. This problem is exaggerated at night, when interior lights make it even easier to see inside your house. The simplest way to eliminate unwanted public displays is to put up curtains. Sheer curtains are a good compromise that allows most of the light in while blocking the view from the outside. A valance topper will add a splash of fashion.

Things You'll Need

• Curtain rods
• Curtain rod hardware
• Hammer
• 1-inch wood nails
• Level

Instructions

1. Install the valances first so that you can judge how high to place the sheer curtains. Position one of the curtain rod hanging supports parallel with the side of the window frame, at the upper outside edge of the window frame, 1/2 inch from each edge.

2. Hammer a 1-inch wood nail into the holes on both sides of the curtain rod hanging support. Use a level to properly position the second curtain rod hanging support on the frame on the other side of the window. Secure the second support with two more 1-inch wood nails.

3. Slide the valance over the curtain rod. Hang the curtain rod on the curtain rod support hardware by holding the rod at an upward angle, inserting the ends over the hardware and lowering the rod to a horizontal position.

4. Slide both panels of the sheer curtains onto the second curtain rod. Hold the rod up to the window and determine how high you want to hang the shears. Mark the top of the curtain rod where you will install the hardware, 1/2 inch from the outer edge of the window frame. Install the curtain rod support hardware. Check for level before installing the second support. Hang the sheer curtain rod on the hardware.

Tips & Warnings

• You can also hang curtains on the walls instead of on the window frames. Do a dry run with an assistant to determine which look you prefer. If you do hang the curtains on a wall, ensure that the rods are centered across the windows.

• Traditionally, the bottom shears are positioned between one-third and one-quarter from the top of the window.