DIY Curtain & Drapery Installation Guide

Draperies add an elegant touch to your home while helping control light and temperature. Drapery panels are a beautiful addition to any décor, creating the illusion of a larger window opening. Installing curtains and draperies is a simple DIY project that can be completed in minutes. This guide will show you how to hang grommet, pinch-pleat, inverted-pleat, contemporary-pleat, and rod pocket curtains.

Before You Begin: Inside vs. Outside Mount

Before measuring, decide whether your window treatment will be an inside mount (within the window frame) or outside mount (above or outside the window frame). This will determine where you place your brackets and measure your panels.

Step 1: Measure Your Window

1. Use a steel measuring tape to locate the center of your window.

2. Determine where you want the bottom of your drapery to rest and mark lightly with a pencil.

3. Extend the tape above the window to the full panel length and mark where you want the top of your curtains to hang.

4. For a taller appearance, position the top 4–6 inches above the window frame.

5. Measure half the rod length to each side from your center mark, subtracting 6 inches for brackets and finials, and lightly mark these positions.

Step 2: Install Your Brackets

• Wood Brackets:
  Loosen screws on the back, remove the bracket holders, align with your pencil marks, and make two guide marks through the top and bottom openings. Reattach brackets after drilling if necessary.

• Metal Brackets:
  Align the top of the bracket over your pencil marks, drill holes, insert plastic wall anchors, and attach the L-shaped bracket section to the wall. Slide the rod holder section into place and secure with the adjustment screw.

Tip: Pre-drilling with an electric drill or using a cordless screwdriver is recommended. Always follow the specific instructions included with your window treatment.

Step 3: Hanging Different Curtain Styles

Grommet Curtains

1. Place the finial at the end of the rod and secure it.

2. Slide your drapery panels onto the rod and attach the second finial.

3. Set the rod onto the brackets and tighten the adjustment screws.

4. Fan out the fabric to the inside edges of the brackets.

Inverted-Pleat Curtains

1. Assemble your rod with finials and slide the panels onto the rod.

2. Lift the rod and set it on your brackets.

3. Adjust the folds for an even, pleasing arrangement.

Pinch-Pleat & Contemporary-Pleat Curtains

1. Assemble your rod with finials and slide the correct number of rings onto the rod.

2. Attach included plastic hooks to your curtains, then hook them onto the rings.

3. Lift the rod onto the brackets, position the first and last rings correctly, and fan out the folds evenly.

Rod Pocket Curtains

1. Slide your curtain panels directly through the rod.

2. Attach finials to secure the rod.

3. Set the rod onto the brackets and fan out the fabric.

4. Adjust folds for a polished appearance.

Final Tips

• Take your time to ensure all folds are even and curtains hang straight.

• Double-check that all brackets are level before finishing.

• Enjoy your beautifully installed drapery!

Optional Professional Installation Note

If you prefer professional installation, our team provides full installation services in South Carolina. Contact us at info@beautifulwindowselgin.com or 803‑865-2935 for a quote or to schedule your installation.