The Complete Guide to Hanging Curtains on Bay Windows

Bay windows are a beautiful architectural feature that can flood a room with natural light. But all that sunlight streaming in may also create privacy issues. Hanging curtains is the perfect solution, but bay windows present unique challenges with their angled sides and protruding shape.

In this complete guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know to properly hang curtains on bay windows. From measuring and mounting rods to picking the right curtains and troubleshooting problems, we will cover it all. Follow these tips and you'll have stunning, well-dressed bay windows that enhance your room's decor.

Materials You'll Need

Before getting started, make sure you have the right supplies on hand:

• Curtain rods or tracks - Often specialty bay window curtain rods work best
• Mounting hardware for rods - Brackets, finials, screws
• Curtain panels long enough to cover windows
• Measuring tape
• Level
• Drill for installing hardware
• Screws, anchors, and mollies for mounting

Measuring the Bay Windows

Taking careful measurements is crucial for hanging bay window curtains properly. Here's how to do it right:

Where to Measure

For width, measure across each individual window section at the top, middle, and bottom. For height, measure from the top of the window trim to where you want curtain panels to just graze the floor.

If you plan to mount the rod above the window molding, measure from the ceiling down to where the rod will go. Make sure to note the highest and widest points.

Accounting for Angles and Protrusions

Since bay windows have angles, your measurements likely won't form a perfect rectangle. One side might protrude more than the other. Make a sketch and measure each side independently.

Calculating Total Dimensions

Add up the three width measurements to get the total width needed. Use the longest height. Typically, you'll need:

• 2-3 inches above window for mounting
• 6-12 inches puddling at floor
• 1-3 extra inches on each side for overlap/stacking

Choosing Rods and Hardware

Using bay window-specific rod kits will make your installation much easier:

Specialty Bay Window Rods

Look for adjustable or telescoping rods designed to mount across three windows at once. Flexible or bendable rods also work for following the window angles.

Mounting and End Styles

Consider inside vs. outside mounts above the window frame. Match finishes between brackets and rods for a cohesive look. Finial styles affect the overall aesthetic.

Coordinating Styles and Finishes

Select rod styles and finishes that coordinate well with your room's decor and color scheme. Brushed nickel, wood, black metal, and bronze are common choices.

Hanging the Rods

Installing the rods level and securely is key to proper curtain hanging:

Proper Spacing and Placement

Space rods 2-3 inches above the window molding. Mount at the same height for all windows so curtains line up nicely.

Securing into Studs

When possible, position brackets over studs for the most secure attachment. Use anchors or mollies if needed between studs.

Getting Rods Level

Check for level front-to-back on each bracket. Compare height of brackets across the three windows using a laser level.

Dealing with Tricky Angles

Use adjustable support braces in the corners to account for angled ceiling lines or uneven walls.

Hanging the Curtain Panels

Follow these tips for properly installing the curtain panels:

Calculating Panel Numbers

Buy enough panels to cover half the total width for each side, plus one panel per window. This provides optimal fullness.

Attaching Curtain Hardware

Clip rings, sewing tabs, or back tabs at even intervals along the rod pocket or top hem. Use carriers on tracks.

Achieving Proper Stackback

Pull the panels together evenly so they overlap in the middle without sagging. Stack left and right halves toward the edges.

Layering Panels and Valances

Add layered valances or a second rod for more texture and depth. Make sure layers align correctly.

Curtain Styles and Fabrics

Choosing the right curtains completes your bay window dressing:

Top Options for Bay Windows

Pinch pleat, ripplefold, rod pocket, tab top, and grommet curtains work well. Skip ruffled styles which overwhelm.

Lining and Room Darkening

Lined curtains in light blocking fabrics provide insulation and privacy. Unlined panels maintain breezy, airy feel.

Curtain Lengths

For floor-length, add 6-12" to sill height. Puddle onto floor or break just above for contemporary look.

Fabric Patterns and Textures

Balance bold prints with solid panels. Use textures like velvet or linen for depth. Coordinate colors.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Fix these potential problems with proper installation techniques:

Off-Center Windows

Compensate by making side panels wider. Center on rod, not window.

Insufficient or Excessive Fullness

Add panels, overlap more, or remove panels as needed. Alteration may help.

Gaping from Angled Sides

Fully extend adjustable rods. Check finials aren't forcing angles. Reposition rod.

Sagging, Dragging Curtains

Reinforce brackets. Shorten panels. Check ring spacing consistency. Move higher.

Design Ideas and Decor Tips

Finish off your bay window with these design ideas:

Arranging Furniture

Place seating facing the window to spotlight it. Float in the middle for walking around access.

Complementing Decor Style

Choose rods and panels that match your room's overall aesthetic, whether modern, traditional, etc.

Layering Other Window Treatments

Add privacy and filter light with shutters, shades, or blinds underneath curtains.

Dressing it Up

Make the window a focal point with scarves, intricate swags, decorative trim, and holdback ties.

Achieve the Perfect Bay Window Look

With the tips from this complete guide, you can confidently tackle hanging curtains on your bay windows. Take time to get the measurements right, choose proper hardware and curtains, and follow best installation practices.

The end result will be a beautifully adorned bay window that showcases your personal style. Your lovely new curtains will provide privacy, control light, and enhance your room's decor. It's well worth the effort to dress your bay windows properly and highlight them as an architectural feature.

Use vertical blinds for practicality

For a more practical solution, consider using vertical blinds for bay windows. These can be adjusted to control the amount of light coming in, making them perfect for large windows where too much light can be overwhelming.

Vertical blinds can also be easier to clean than curtains, especially in high-traffic areas where they may become dirty more frequently. They come in a variety of materials, from basic vinyl to luxurious fabrics, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs and style preferences.

Don't feel limited to just one style of window dressing for your bay window. Mix and match different styles to create a unique and eclectic look. For example, you could combine shutters with curtains, or use a mix of blinds and curtains to create a layered effect.

This can add depth and dimension to the space, and also provide different levels of privacy and light control depending on the time of day and the specific needs of the room. Just be sure the different elements coordinate and don't clash. With some creativity, you can find stylish solutions for your unique bay windows.