How to Hang Tiebacks

Tiebacks made from decorative cord often have tassels.

Hang tiebacks to hold stationary curtains -- the ones that don't open and close from the rod -- in an open position. Leave them tied back all the time or release the tiebacks as needed to close the curtains. Tieback types include fabric, beaded ropes and decorative cord. Fabric tiebacks are sometimes fringed or ruffled. Tiebacks made from twisted or braided cord frequently feature hanging tassels. Regardless of the tieback type, the installation method remains the same.

Things You'll Need

• Pencil
• Metal measuring tape
• Drill
• Drill bit
• Drapery hooks, 1 per tieback

Instructions

1. 

   Make a pencil mark on the wall or molding where you're holding the tieback's loose ends.

   Wrap the tieback around the curtain panel. Hold the loose ends of the tieback 1/4 inch beyond the outer edge of the panel, so the panel's outer edge remains straight. Move the tieback up and down to try different hanging heights. Once you're happy with the position, make a pencil mark on the wall or molding where you're holding the tieback's loose ends.

2. 

   Use a metal measuring tape to measure for tiebacks.

   Measure from the floor to your pencil mark, and then from the outer edge of the window molding to the mark. Find the identical spot on the opposite side of the window by measuring the same distances from the floor and the molding's outer edge. Mark the spot where the two measurements intersect.

3. 

   Drill pilot holes at both pencil marks.

   Drill pilot holes at both pencil marks, sized as directed on the drapery hook packaging. Turn the drapery hooks clockwise to screw them into the pilot holes, unless the manufacturer instructs otherwise. Don't strip the screw holes by overtightening. Place the opening of C-shaped hooks 45 degrees clockwise from the noon position.

4. Hook the loop or ring on one end of the tieback over the drapery hook. Slide the tieback behind the curtain panel. If the tieback has a right and wrong side, the right side should face the window. Wrap the tieback around the front of the curtain, and then slip the second loop or ring over the hook. Repeat on the opposite side of the window.

5. Blouse the inner edges of the curtain panels -- which are called the leading edges -- over the the inner edges of the tiebacks. Straighten the gathers created where the tiebacks cinch the panels, spacing them evenly along the width of the tieback. Stand back from the window to make sure both panels look the same.

Tips & Warnings

• The ideal hanging heights for floor length panels are 1/3 or 2/3 of the panel height. For curtains that hang to the windowsill or the bottom of the window apron, try the tiebacks at 1/2 or 2/3 of the curtain height.

• Use plain, C-shaped hooks for tiebacks with hidden or plastic rings. Use decorative drapery hooks for tiebacks with looped ends or visible, decorative rings.

• For curtain panels made from heavyweight fabric -- or those lined and interlined -- choose drapery hooks with anchors unless your mounting them over a wall stud. Install the anchors and hooks as directed on the packaging.

References

• "The Ultimate Curtain Book: A Comprehensive Guide to Creating Your Own Window Treatments"; Isabella Forbes; 1994
• "Sewing for the Home: Over 50 Stylish Projects to Give Your Home a Fresh Look"; Creative Publishing International; 2002

Resources

• All Free Crafts: Crocheted Drapery Tie Backs with Tassel