Hanging white or sheer curtains allows more light to enter the room.
When decorating your home, hanging curtains from the ceiling can add a dramatic effect to rooms, separate living spaces or give the impression of higher ceilings. Installing curtain rods so that you can hang curtains of varying colors and patterns can be simple if using the right tools and measurements. Moreover, the process for hanging may be less labor-intensive if the rod is already installed versus if you need to replace and attach a new rod.
Tools
Make sure you have the correct tools and materials before starting the installation. In addition to the curtain rod, you will need ceiling-mount brackets, screws and drywall anchors. Drywall anchors are plastic or metal and usually do not require pre-drilling for installation. You will also need some drapery clips -- the metal rings that connect the drape to the rod. Make sure your toolbox includes a power drill, tape measure and pencil. Last, you will need a ladder to reach and work from the ceiling.
Installation
Installation starts with you measuring the area where you want to hang the curtain. Use your pencil to mark the placement of the brackets, which will hold the rod in place. Having a second person nearby to judge whether your measurements are accurate and precise is also helpful. Use the power drill to attach both the drywall anchors and screws that hold in the ceiling-mount brackets. Once the brackets are installed, attach your curtain to the rod using drapery clips, and place the rod into the mounting brackets. The drywall anchors should help prevent the curtain from falling or being yanked down.
Types
After installing your curtain rods, select the type of curtains you want to hang in your room. Choose sheer, natural or white curtains if you are looking to create an airy space with lots of light. Silk curtains create an elegant and luxurious feel, while multicolored or patterned curtains can provide a modern edge. You can also use cotton, nylon, linen or chintz to create different styles and looks. Consider the room's function, layout and furniture when deciding on the curtain's length, material and eventual location.
Considerations
If you want to use custom drapes or curtains, measuring an existing rod is easier and more accurate than measuring an existing curtain. Also, use a retractable tape measure when calculating the width and height of your curtain. Cloth tape measures, yard sticks, rulers and other measurement devices are less accurate and may waste time and money in the long run. For ceiling curtains, stretch your tape measure from the ceiling down to the floor. Subtract 1 inch from the total measurement if you want your curtains to hang above the floor rather than sweep or pool on it.
Tags: from ceiling, tape measure, your curtain, ceiling curtains, ceiling-mount brackets, curtain rods, drapery clips
