How to Attach Curtains to Sidelights

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Things You'll Need

  • Magnetic rods

  • Adhesive rods

  • Screw rods

  • Screwdriver

  • Sidelight sheers

  • Fabric tie

Side windows allow more light inside a foyer.

Sidelights are the narrow windows adjacent to the front door. These windows offer visibility of guests and bring additional light into the foyer. Often the sidelights feel too exposed. Narrow curtains can reduce visibility through the window while still allowing light to come through. There are several ways to mount small curtain rods for sidelights, depending on how your door surround is constructed.

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Magnetic Rods

Step 1

Measure the width and height of the sidelight from the inside vertical casing on each side of metal surround windows.

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Step 2

Thread sidelight sheer curtains of the correct measurement onto two magnetic rods. The curtains should be a lightweight sheer material with top and bottom pockets for the rods.

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Step 3

Align and adjust the rods so the magnetic end caps are in good contact with the metal inside casing on either side of the window and at the top and bottom of the window. When the curtain rods are attached, install the fabric center strap that comes with the curtains.

Adhesive Tension Rods

Step 1

Measure the width of the sidelight windows from the vertical inside casing on each side. Measure the length of the window for the correct size of sheer curtain.

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Step 2

Thread the rods through the pockets on the curtain.

Step 3

Adjust the tension spring of the rod by screwing or unscrewing the rod sections to produce a snug fit. Remove the paper covering the adhesive, and install the rods in the locations at the top and bottom of the sidelight. The tension will press the adhesive into the casing and hold the curtain in place.

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Screw Rods

Step 1

Install screw rod brackets into wood door surrounds using the screws provided with the curtain rod brackets. Install the top brackets first. Measure the width and height of the window, and select the right size sheer curtain to fit the window.

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Step 2

Thread the curtain onto the top and bottom rods. Hang the curtain's top rod. Holding the curtain snug, mark the location of the lower curtain rod brackets. Install the brackets by screwing the brackets into the wood.

Step 3

Attach the lower curtain rod to the brackets. Wrap the center of the sheers with the decorative center strap once the curtain is in place.

Tip

Use ribbon, jewelry or other unusual tie elements to bring a touch of whimsy to the center strap area of the curtain.

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