While it is a common thing for people to have different tastes, there are numerous reasons why you may choose to hang your curtains from the ceiling.
It may be a way to add an aura of drama around your room by encasing your bed with curtains, or maybe the old-style wall props appear not to be sturdy enough.
Also, since hanging curtains from the ceiling will make walls appear taller, you may do this to enjoy the illusion.
However, before immersing yourself in such a project, it is important to understand what it involves.
Here is how to hang a curtain from the ceiling
· Measure the ceiling
· Get curtains of the correct lengths
· Drill holes for anchor insertion in the ceiling
· Install ceiling track or brackets
· Use hooks to hang the curtains on a ceiling track or with a curtain rod.
While hanging curtains from a ceiling is quite a seamless process, it requires that you prepare well enough for accurate results.
Also, a successful installation of curtains does not require you to seek any professional help. Thus, the above basic steps are enough to help you carry out this project all on your own.
However, you could use a little more details to make the work easier. Read more to get an understanding of how to hang the curtains from a ceiling properly.
Take Measurements Of Your Ceiling
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The first step includes measuring and marking the height of your ceiling to know the desired length for your curtains. Upon obtaining accurate measurements, it will be on you to decide whether you want your curtains to sweep the floor or hang a few inches above it.
After measuring the desired length for your curtains, the next step involves marking the places on the ceiling where you can drill holes for anchor insertion.
Depending on the type f ceiling you have, mark enough points to accommodate the entire length of curtains. For instance, use a pencil to create the markings if your ceiling is made of PBC or cardboard.
However, if you have a popcorn ceiling, you’ll first have to smoothen the area sing a drywall or utility knife.
If you are worried about playful kids or even pets trying to hang from the curtain, it is important to consider the type of fabric for your curtains. Besides using sturdy material for the curtains, it is best to use a ceiling joist to support any weight.
Try using a stud locator to help you find the ceiling joists in order to guarantee a secure installation.
While it may appear tricky, especially if you are doing this for the first time, try to ensure that the marks you make are on a straight line. If eyeing up exact lengths seems impossible, try running a tape measure in between marks, and you’ll be able to achieve a straight line.
I advise you to enlist the help of another family member or friend to complete a symmetrical installation by ascertaining that the marks you make are indeed level.
While I recommend you use a bracket that can hold a curtain rod for your project, you can also use a ceiling track which has also been noted to bear significant results.
However, with a ceiling track, ensure that you get accurate measurements of the space between the holes you drilled so that it can accommodate the entire length of the ceiling track.
Purchase The Correct Length Of Curtains
Once you are through with the first step, which includes getting accurate measurements, it is time to purchase the curtains for your use. If you plan to use curtains that sweep the floor, consider adding a couple of inches to your prior measurements to ensure they reach.
If you want your curtains to hang above the floor, subtract a couple of inches depending on what you want.
While your fabric type should be sturdy enough to support the weight without tearing or breaking, it shouldn’t be too heavy regarding where you positioned the marks. This is because, with a heavy curtain, you are expected to install more brackets to support the weight.
Also, while selecting your curtain, consider choosing a pattern that matches your lifestyle and room décor. I have one that matches the color of my ceiling, thus maintaining the aesthetic flow.
Note that if you are using a ceiling track, ensure that you can hang the curtains you buy on the hooks on the ceiling track.
Drill Enough Holes In The Ceilings
This step requires you to have a power drill. Take extra caution when using the drill and ensure to adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions and user manual. Remember to use the appropriate safety equipment.
Use the drill to create sizable holes in the ceiling. The size of holes to drill depends on the size of your wall anchors. Typically, most brackets come with their anchors, thus eliminating the need for purchasing them separately.
Fortunately, most ceiling tracks and brackets made specifically for ceilings come with suitable hardware. If you want to buy anchors separately, ensure to pick the hollow types.
After drilling enough holes, fit the anchors into the holes and press them until they grip the plaster. If you want a tighter fit, try using a power drill to secure the anchor just like you would with a typical screw.
Install The Ceiling Track Or Brackets
I find brackets quite easy to install. You only have to attach the brace over the anchor before securing it using the power drill and finally inserting screws on both sides.
Using a ceiling track requires you to first attack the supporting brackets to the track. However, different tracks have different ways of attaching the support brackets.
As a result, consider going through the product’s instructions to guide you on securing the support brackets.
Once spaced apart and secured enough, you’ll require a friend’s help to hold the track. With the brackets directly over the hole fitted with anchors, screw the track to the ceiling using a power drill. Expect the pieces to snap to the back of the track.
Hang The Curtains
Finally, you can now hang your curtain. If you are using a curtain rod and ceiling brackets, insert the rod through the curtains and hang it.
Typically, your curtain will collapse a little for it to fit between the brackets. If the curtain rod you use doesn’t feature this option, you first have to slide the rod through the bracket and insert it through the curtain before inserting the other end of the rod through the corresponding bracket.
But if you are using a ceiling track, use the hooks to fix the curtain to the track. Whichever method you use, test the installation to ensure that they are secure.
Can I Use Command Hooks To Hang Curtains From The Ceiling?
For a long time, command hooks have held a strong reputation as adhesives used to hang items with no drilling. However, you can’t trust to find a command hook with the weight-bearing ability for hooking curtains.
This is because Command doesn’t create hooks for curtains and rods that weigh over five pounds. Even with that, such curtains aren’t suitable to hang from the ceiling.
However, there are many other adhesive options for the ceiling. Before using such hooks, ensure that the ceiling is smooth and clean.
How To Hang A Curtain Rod From The Ceiling?
While tension rods can’t create the same look as hanging curtains directly, there is another super alternative for those who wish to hang their curtains from the ceiling.
Many people prefer tension rods since you can easily hang them close to the ceiling, thus making your room appear taller, similarly to hanging curtains from higher up.
However, t still serves as a good option even if making your room appear larger isn’t part of your end goal.
While it is undisputedly a viable alternative, you cannot use tension rods to hold curtains of the same weight as anchors and brackets do.
Which Curtain Fabric Is Suitable For Hanging From The Ceilings?
For hanging curtains from the ceiling, I recommend a light but sturdy material. One such type of fabric to use is linen which delivers a tailored look when used and is lightweight. Linen appears to be breezy and maintains a uniform appearance without being sheer.
If you do not want blackout coverage, go for something more ethereal such as silk or lace.
Other desirable options include velvet which comes in handy for those who want to use something dark and heavy such as drapes, to help keep the light out around the bed.
Since velvet is quite heavy on the weight side, ensure that you secure the brackets in the ceiling joists, especially if you are dead set on this type of fabric.
On velvet drapes, I recommend you use a ceiling track instead of brackets to help bear the weight. All the same, such curtains are superb for those seeking their privacy.
