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Short answer
To hang curtains, check the track or pole is secure, count the gliders or rings, and insert hooks at even spacing along the heading. Hang each curtain from the centre outwards, check it clears the floor, adjust the hook height if needed, then arrange the folds and tie them loosely for a day or two so they set.
Before you start
- Check the track or pole is fixed firmly and level, and slides smoothly.
- Count gliders or rings: one per hook, so the curtain doesn't sag. Add more if needed.
- Use a stable step ladder, and get help with long or heavy curtains.
- Iron or steam creases first if needed. See How to Steam and Iron Curtains.
How do you hang curtains on a track?
- 1. Insert the hooks. One per pleat plus one at each end for French or pinch pleats; about every 10 to 15 cm for pencil pleat. See Types of Curtain Hooks.
- 2. Hang from the centre outwards, hooking into each glider in turn, so the leading edges meet in the middle.
- 3. Fix the end hooks to the end stop or fixed glider, so the outer edge stays in place.
- 4. Check the height. If the track shows, move the hooks further down the heading so the curtain rides higher; if the heading flops forward, move them closer to the top.
- 5. Check the hem clears the floor by about 1 cm. See How Long Should Curtains Be?
How do you hang S-fold and eyelet curtains?
- S-fold: clip the tape's snaps onto the track carriers in order, without skipping any, so the waves stay even. See S-Fold Curtains.
- Eyelet: remove a finial, thread the eyelets onto the pole with the first and last eyelet turning back towards the wall, then refit the finial. See Eyelet Curtains.
- Rings on a pole: hook into each ring, with one ring outside the end bracket if you want the edge fixed.
How do you dress curtains so they hang well?
Open the curtains fully. Arrange the folds by hand from the heading down, so each pleat falls straight. Tie the stacked curtain loosely in two or three places with soft ties for a day or two, then release. The folds will hold their shape.
Tip
Repeat the dressing after washing. Rehanging curtains while slightly damp lets their own weight pull out creases. See How to Wash Curtains.
Common problems
| Problem | Fix |
|---|---|
| Track visible above the heading | Move hooks further down the heading so the curtain rides higher |
| Heading flops forward | Move hooks closer to the top of the heading |
| Curtain sags between hooks | Add hooks and gliders at even spacing |
| Hem uneven | Check the floor; adjust hooks at the low end |
| Hard to draw | Add gliders, or clean the track |
Frequently asked questions
How do you hang curtains with hooks?
Insert hooks at even spacing along the heading, then hook into each glider or ring from the centre outwards.
How many hooks do curtains need?
One per pleat plus one at each end for pleated curtains, or about every 10 to 15 cm for pencil pleat.
Why can I see the track above my curtains?
The hooks sit too close to the top of the heading, so the curtain hangs low. Move them further down the heading so the curtain rides higher.
How do I make curtains hang in neat folds?
Dress the folds by hand when open and tie them loosely for a day or two.
Curtain maker, upholsterer or designer?
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