Friday, March 9, 2012

Decorate Windows With Iron Curtain Rods

Iron curtain rods accentuate the drama of elaborate window treatments.


Iron curtain rods can be a unique accent to any room. The rough metal finish adds an Old World detail to your windows, especially when paired with fitted window treatments. Iron curtain rods are easy to install, though they may be heavier than regular curtain rods. Selecting the best window treatments for the rods may be more time-consuming, as you need to consider both your personal taste in window treatments and what best complements your existing decor. Does this Spark an idea?


Instructions


1. Select the window treatments that you want to pair with the iron curtain rods. Take pictures of your curtain rods in the light most common to the room, and take the pictures to the store with you. Iron curtain rods can appear heavy and ornate, so select window treatments that complement that style. Select curtains in a color that complements the patina of the rods themselves. Consider the rest of the decor in the room. If you have heavily patterned furniture throughout the room, drapes in a solid color but a heavy, luxurious fabric would be most appropriate.


2. Climb onto your step-stool and use the stud finder to locate the studs above your window. Mark the studs with your pencil. These are the spots where you will be attaching the rod brackets to hold up the iron curtain rod. With some window treatments, you can install the brackets into drywall. However, iron rods are heavy and need the support of the studs.


3. Hold the brackets over your pencil marks and use the drill or screwdriver to drill the screws into place. You need at least three brackets: one for each end, and one to support the middle of the rod. Install a bracket every three feet if the rods are longer than normal.


4. Slide the curtains over the curtain rod, with the front of the fabric facing out. Lift the curtain rod with the curtains on it over the brackets, and lower the rod into place. Adjust the curtains so that they lie evenly on the iron rod.


5. Consider using loose fabric and draping it over the rods as swag instead of installing traditional drapes. The loose fabric can give balance to an otherwise heavy accent like the iron curtain rods. Loose fabric is often less expensive than curtains, and you can easily change it if you alter your room's decor.







Tags: window treatments, curtain rods, iron curtain, Iron curtain rods, curtain rods, curtain with, curtains over