Thread grommet-topped curtains onto a rod to hang them. Grommet-topped curtain panels have round, metal-rimmed openings all along their headers, which are the curtain tops. They have a clean-lined, simple look that works well in casual and contemporary interiors. You won’t need rings, clips or hooks because the hanging hardware is built in, making grommet panels one of the easiest and least expensive curtain types to hang. Measure the width of your window, including any molding. Add an additional 8 inches for single windows, or an additional 14 inches for double or larger windows. The total is the necessary curtain rod length before you add finials. The extra inches provide stacking space on each side of the window, which lets you open the curtains without blocking too much glass. Measure the diameter of a grommet opening, not including the metal rim. Subtract 1/2 inch from the result for the maximum curtain rod diameter you can use. Opt for a smooth, pole-style curtain rod equaling the length from Step 1.

Choose a style with small finials that suit the simplicity of the curtain style, and select a finish that matches or complements the grommet finish. Measure the width of one of the grommet-topped curtain panels. Double the curtain rod length from Step 1, and divide the result by the curtain panel width. Round up to the next even number for the total number of curtain panels you need. Lay one of the curtain panels flat. Measure from the inside top of one of the grommets to the panel’s bottom hem. Position a stepladder in front of the window. At the top edge of the window frame, find the center and mark it with a pencil. Extend a metal measuring tape downward until it reaches the floor. Without lifting the tape from the floor, extend the top of the measuring tape until it equals the curtain panel length from Step 4. Mark that location -- ideally 2 to 4 inches above the window frame -- with a pencil and then erase the previous pencil mark. Divide the curtain rod length from Step 1 in half.

While standing on your stepladder, measure out to that distance on each side of the pencil mark. Mark the new locations with the pencil. The new marks designate the ends of the curtain rod. Mark the curtain rod bracket locations using the pencil marks as a guide. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for placing and mounting the brackets, which vary. Lay one of the curtain panels right side up. Thread the curtain rod through the front side of the first grommet, then thread it through the back of the second grommet. Repeat with the rest of the grommets in the panel, alternating between front and back. Repeat with the rest of the panels. Hold the curtain rod so the right sides of the curtains face you. Mount your stepladder and center the rod above the window. With the ends of the curtain rods even with the end pencil marks, place the rod on its brackets. Fasten the curtain rod to the brackets as instructed by the manufacturer. Screw the finials onto the ends of the rod. Erase the pencil marks if they’re visible.

Adjust the curtain folds as needed. Things You Will Need Metal measuring tape Pole-style curtain rod with brackets and finials Stepladder Pencil with eraser Tip Warning Photo Credits Ryan McVay/Photodisc/Getty Images Suggest a CorrectionEthical Nutrients Weight Loss Support Side EffectsCreating a beautiful window treatment starts with choosing the look you'd like for the room. Tire Shop For Sale In San DiegoFirst consider the length of the curtain, then which type of top treatment will work best in your space. Used Patio Furniture Oklahoma CityFrom a dramatic entryway to a casual kitchen, the details you choose for your windows make a difference in defining the style of the room. All of our curtain panel heights are measured from the top of the rod pocket to the bottom of the hem.

The length of your curtains should mirror the style of the room, from dramatic to relaxed. Falling just above the sill, 63” panels are great for more casual rooms, such as the kitchen or a bedroom. These curtains are casual but have a tailored look that elongates the appearance of the window. Drapes that are 96” typically hang about 1” off the floor, turning a window into a statement. Try this length in spaces such as the family room or dining room. Create a luxurious effect with longer curtains that “puddle” beautifully on the floor. This treatment is usually reserved for low-traffic rooms that are slightly more elegant, such as the living room or formal dining room. The way your curtains hang from the hardware makes a difference in how they drape. Choose from rod pocket, grommet, rings or double rods to create different effects in different rooms. Perhaps the most common type of top treatment, these curtains have a generous 3” “pocket” along the top that easily slips over a curtain rod.

Rod pocket curtains can also be used with rings for a more contemporary look that glides easily along the rod. Grommet top offers a more modern look that lets curtains glide on the rod with ease, making it a good choice for windows that are opened and closed often. Behind the beauty of a layered window treatment is usually a double rod. This hardware makes it easy to get creative by mixing color, pattern and materials, such as an opaque cotton drape in front of a sheer linen panel. During colder months, layer two heavier drapes to help insulate the room. After deciding the length of your curtains, decide the total width. Do you want a smooth, tailored appearance when your window curtains are closed, or do you prefer a fuller, more dramatic look? One of our designer’s tips and tricks: Calculate 1.5 to 3 times the width of the window depending on the fullness you'd like. In addition to measuring the width of the window, determine how much overlap of hanging curtains you'd like on each side (1-3” is typical).