The Truth About Hanging Curtains the Right Way

Many homeowners make the same mistake when hanging curtains: they mount the brackets for the curtain rod just 2 to 3 inches beyond the window frame and use a short rod. That might sound reasonable, but it can leave your windows looking crowded and your room feeling darker than it should.

The Problem With Too-Little Rod Width

Your curtain panels need space to stack back when opened. A short rod doesn’t give you that space, so instead of framing your window beautifully, your drapes block natural light and crowd your view.

How Wide Should My Drapery Rod Be?

If your drapery panels are decorative only, they should sit just 1–2 inches into the glass, not 12” or more. To achieve that, your rod may need to extend 15 to 18 inches on either side, especially if your panels are pleated or have added fullness.

Why Custom Measurements Make a Big Difference

Most rods and panels sold off-the-shelf don’t account for how fabric behaves when pleated, dressed, or stacked back. A ready-made panel might be 50 inches wide—but that’s before it’s hung and styled.

With custom drapery, your design consultant takes into account:

Pleat style and fullness
Whether the panel is stationary or functioning
The look you want when the window is open or closed
Your wall space, trim, and room layout

Why the Internet Keeps Saying 2–4 Inches

Online tutorials often recommend 2–3” beyond the window because:

It works for ready-made panels in smaller spaces
It’s based on installation ease, not design
It ignores the stack-back requirement for full, functional drapes
It assumes you're okay with blocking part of your window

But if you want a clean, designer look with beautiful proportions, that advice falls short.

🦉 Buddy’s Insight: Don’t Let Short Rods Ruin Your Look

Stacking back full panels takes more space than you might think. Don’t let your drapes pinch the view—let them frame it. We’ll help you plan for it all.

Work With Your Local Experts at Budget Blinds of Boise

At Budget Blinds of Boise, our experienced design consultants will help you plan for beautiful, functional drapery that fits your space and style. We specialize in:

Custom drapes and side panels tailored to your windows
Motorized roller shades paired with drapery for large windows and sliders
Innovative solutions like our Smart Drape™ and Vadain’s Wave Drape are perfect for wide openings, such as the popular large sliding glass doors in modern homes.

We’ll guide you, and our team handles measuring and installation, so you never have to guess what will fit. Call and let's get started today! Or stop by our showroom in Meridian near Chinden and Linder to explore the options, see custom drapery options, and be inspired!