How to Hang Curtains, Drapes and Art Like a Pro
Hang It Right the First Time
Ever have a difficult time hanging wall art or curtains and drapery rods at the right height without turning your walls into a pin cushion of nail holes? You are not alone.
The good news is that hanging curtains, drapery rods, and wall art can greatly impact the overall look of a room. So getting it right is really important to your home's aesthetic.
However, determining the optimal height for these items can be a challenging task. Here's a quick guide to help you hang your curtains, drapery rods, and wall art at an eye-pleasing height within your home.
Hanging Curtains
The height at which you hang your curtains is determined by the height of your window and the style of curtains you choose.
For a more classic look, hang your curtains as close to the ceiling as possible. This will create an illusion of a taller room and make the window look substantially bigger. If you have low ceilings or want to create a more casual look, you can hang your curtains just above the window frame. If you have standard 8-foot ceilings, the ideal curtain height is around 96-98 inches long.
For higher ceilings, add an additional 3-6 inches for each foot above 8 feet. For example, if you have a 10-foot ceiling, the ideal curtain height would be around 106-110 inches long.
Hanging Drapery Rods
The height of your drapery rods will depend on the style of curtains you choose. If you're wanting to use curtains that reach the floor, you'll want to mount your drapery rod 6-12 inches above the top of the window frame. This will give the illusion of taller windows. If you're using curtains that are shorter, you can mount your drapery rod just above the window frame. Make sure to take into account any decorative elements you may have above your windows, such as crown molding or trim, when determining the height of your drapery rods.
When choosing drapery rod brackets, be sure to select ones that will support the weight of your curtains. Heavy drapes may require additional support, so consider using a center support bracket for longer rods. And make sure you give thought to any supporting brackets that will be used in the middle and how the curtains will slide on the drapery rod so you don't make a time-consuming error when installing the rods.
Hanging Wall Art
The height at which you hang your wall art will depend on the size of the piece and the height of the wall. A general rule of thumb is to hang your artwork at eye level, which is typically around 57-60 inches from the floor. However, this can vary depending on the height of the person who will be viewing the artwork.
If you're hanging a large piece of art or a gallery wall, you'll want to consider the overall height and proportion of the wall. For example, if you have a high ceiling or a large wall, you can hang your artwork higher to fill the space. If you're hanging a smaller piece of art, you may want to hang it lower to draw the viewer's eye down.
A trick for hanging a piece of art with two hooks on the back with no wire is to cut a piece of painters tape that begins and ends where the center of each of the hooks lands on the back of the art. Then place the tape on the wall at your desired height taking into account where the top of the art and hooks are. Ensure it's level using a level if you have one. Then you can hammer your nails in with confidence to install your art.
When hanging multiple pieces of artwork, you'll want to ensure that they are evenly spaced and at a consistent height. A great way to achieve this is to create a template using paper or cardboard cutouts of your artwork and arrange them on the floor before hanging them on the wall. This will allow you to experiment with different arrangements and ensure that the spacing and height are consistent.
In addition to the height of your wall art, you'll also want to consider the placement in relation to other elements in the room. For example, you may want to hang a large piece of art above a sofa or bed, or create a gallery wall around a focal point such as a fireplace.
To sum it up, the optimal height for hanging curtains, drapery rods, and wall art will depend on various factors such as the size of the windows or walls, the height of the ceiling, and the style of your home's decor. By following the tips above, you can achieve a cohesive and stylish look in your home. Remember, always use a level and take your time when hanging any decor to ensure a professional and polished final product.
