How to Install Curtains With Crown Moldings

Crown molding can be ornate in some homes. Many homeowners prefer to showcase the architectural detailing rather than hide it behind window treatments. Hanging curtains that do not over the crown molding is sometimes difficult. There is an answer that softens your windows with fabric while allowing the beauty of the molding to show through. Proper placement of your curtain rods will prevent the curtain topper from hiding the molding.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• Level
• Pencil
• Curtain rod
• Sewing machine
• Thread

Instructions

1. Measure the curtain's topper. This is the fabric that extends above the rod when it is in position. Begin at the top of the casing or the location of the hooks on the back of the curtain. Measure to the top of the fabric that sticks up above the casing or hook placement. Add 1 inch to the measurement. This is your topper measurement.

2. Begin at the bottom of the crown molding and measure downward the distance of your topper measurement. Make a light mark on the wall at that location. This is the rod position. Your rod will be installed no higher than this mark.

3. Measure the width of the window and find the center. Measure the length of the curtain rod and find the center.

4. Line up the center of the rod over the center of the window. Place the rod on or below the rod position mark. Follow the packaging instructions to mount the first rod bracket.

5. Go to the other end of the rod area. Use the level to ensure the rod brackets are at the same height. Mount the second rod bracket.

6. Place the curtain on the rod. Hang the rod in on the brackets. Notice the curtain's length. If they are longer than you desire, consider hemming them.

7. Mark the fabric at the finished length you want the curtains to hang to.

8. Take the curtains from the rod. Place them flat with the wrong side up. Fold the curtain's bottom hem, half the distance to the mark. Turn again, going all the way to the mark. This creates a double hem. If the curtains are longer than 6 inches, cut excess fabric from the bottom before turning. Use a hand blind stitch to hem the panels.

Tips & Warnings

• A floor-length curtain will draw in and elongate the gaze and draw the eye toward your crown molding.

• Choose a curtain with no topper or a short topper if there is little space between the window and the molding.

References

• Iron Hardware