How To Hang Sheer Curtains With Drapes [5 Steps]

A new set of drapes is more than just a window covering. Drapes make an artistic statement and can go a long way towards creating the atmosphere for a room.

Layering draperies with sheer curtains is a lovely way to set the room's tone while allowing for both privacy and sunlight. However, it can seem tricky to get them set up initially. We've researched for you and found the best way to layer drapes and sheers.

Layering drapes and sheer curtains can be every bit as easy as hanging a regular curtain. The simplest way to accomplish this look is to use a double rod. Follow these simple steps to give your window a new, fabulous look:

  1. Determine drape length
  2. Measure and mark bracket placement
  3. Install brackets
  4. Thread sheers onto their rod and hang
  5. Attach drapes to their rod and hang

As you can see, the process of hanging sheer curtains with drapes is not as complicated as it may seem. For more detailed directions and to discover helpful tips and hacks for this project, keep on reading!

A beautiful bedroom with decorative wallpaper and sheer curtains, How To Hang Sheer Curtains With Drapes [5 Steps]

How To Hang Sheer Curtains With Drapes

Before you get started, make sure you have these materials:

  • Drapes
  • Sheer Curtains
  • Double curtain rod
  • Drill
  • Measuring tape
  • Drywall anchors (if needed)
  • Pencil

1. Determine Drape Length

Drapes come in many sizes, and you will want to know precisely what length you have. Additionally, you will need to determine where you would like your drapes to fall. Most experts recommend hanging your curtains, drapes, and sheers so that they barely brush the floor.

Window treatments that hang a couple of inches from the floor can seemingly lower the ceiling. Use a measuring tape to find out how long your drapes are and where you would like them to fall before proceeding to the next step.

Click here to find this measuring tape on Amazon.

2. Measure And Mark Bracket Placement

Now that you know the length of your drapes and sheers, you are ready to make some progress. You will need to mark the spots where you want to install the brackets that will hold your rods. Place the end of your measuring tape against the wall at the point where you decided you want your curtains to fall.

Measure up, using the measurement you got from your curtains, and place a mark where your brackets will need to be. There are a few guidelines that will help place your bracket.

Width

Yes, there are rules about how far out your curtain rod should protrude. It is generally recommended that the curtain rod's decorative end, or the final, extend at least 4- 10 inches past the window casing.

While we are on the topic of width, it is also best that your curtains, or drapes, be at least double the width of your window.

Height

As for height, this will ultimately be determined by the length of your drapes and where you want them to fall. However, if you need a guideline, try to ensure that the double rod is installed a minimum of 2 inches above the window casing.

Find A Stud

When it comes to installing the brackets for your rod, you will want to be sure that they are very secure. The drapes may be heavy, and they will inevitably get tugged on at some point.

If possible, install your curtain rod brackets over two studs. If this is not possible, use drywall anchors to make sure that the brackets are firmly mounted. Be sure to choose anchors that are rated for the appropriate weight.

Click here to see these drywall anchors on Amazon.

3. Install Brackets

Usually, your double rod will come with screws for the bracket. Line your brackets up with the mark you made, and install the screws. Remember to utilize either a stud or drywall anchors. A drill will be beneficial if you are drilling into a stud.

Click here for this double curtain rod on Amazon.

4. Thread Sheers Onto Their Rod And Hang

When using a double curtain rod, the rear rod is for the sheer curtains or back layer. Sheer curtains will usually be threaded right onto the rod and may fit very snugly.

Once you have the sheer curtains ready, you can hang the rod back on the bracket. Usually, this rod will be held in place with a screw or clipped onto the bracket.

5. Attach Drapes To Their Rod And Hang

Your new window treatment is almost done! Hanging your drapes is the final step in the project. There are multiple ways to hang your drapes, which we will go over in a minute.

Regardless of which method you use, you can hang the rod up and enjoy the view once you have your drapes attached.

Drapery Rings

Drapery rings, or ring clips, are handy and purchased at many stores or online outlets. These handy accessories can be decorative as well as useful. Simply clip the rings to your drapes, and slide the rings onto your curtain rod.

Click here for these drapery rings on Amazon.

Rod Pocket

Most curtains have a rod pocket, whether you choose to use it or not. Your curtain rod should slide right through the pocket, and it is ready to hang. 

Brown bronze curtain rod with a white lave curtain on it

Tabs

Many drapes or curtains have hidden tabs sewn into the back, along the top edge. These tabs are spaced a few inches apart so that the drapes appear to pleat in front.

Drapery Pins

Drapery pins were made to be used on heavy, pleated draperies. The pins hook right into the pleated fabric in the back of the drapes.

They often come with rings that slide onto the curtain rod. Although these pins could undoubtedly be used with unpleated drapes, ring clips would be much more practical.

Click here to purchase drapery pins on Amazon.

How do you hang sheer curtains without a double rod?

Maybe you already have a single curtain rod installed and don't want to switch it out. No problem, there are several ways to achieve that layered look. Let's look at a few creative solutions.

Single Rod With Ring Clips

One easy method of layering drapes and sheers with a single rod involves lots of ring clips. You will need enough clips for each layer. Simply alternate the curtain layers on the clips. For example, clip the drapery layer, then the sheers, then the drapery, and so on.

Click here to buy this 40 piece set of ring clips on Amazon.

Bungee Cord

Another creative solution to layering with a single rod is to use a bungee cord for the sheers. Thread your sheer curtains onto a bungee cord, and hook both ends of the bungee to the curtain rod. 

Click here to find these bungee cords on Amazon.

Another Rod

Installing an extra rod behind your main rod would undoubtedly work. If your window is recessed, you could even use a tension rod inside the window to hang your sheer curtains.

Click here for these tension rods on Amazon.

Can you make a single curtain rod into a double?

Yes! You can make a single curtain rod into a double. Many stores carry a device called Add-a-Rod that will do just that. These rods come with a hook on either end that attaches right to your existing bracket. With this convenient device, single curtain rods are easily transformed into double rods.

Click here to purchase an Add-a-Rod extension for your curtain rod.

Should sheer curtains touch the floor?

Sheer curtains can touch the floor when they stand alone. However, as a general rule, sheer curtains should end above the floor when they are layered behind drapes.

Usually, drapes will touch the floor in some way, whether they barely brush the floor or fall into a puddle. Keeping the sheers up off the floor keeps the window treatment from feeling too heavy.

What is the difference between sheer and voile curtains?

Technically, voile curtains are sheer curtains. However, sheer curtains are not always voile. Sheer curtains refer more to a category of curtain rather than a specific fabric type.

Sheer curtains are lightweight, somewhat transparent, billowy curtains. They can be made of voile, chiffon, crepe, or several other fabrics that meet these specifications.

On a related note, you may find this article interesting: 12 Best Fabrics For Curtains [Sheer & Opaque]

Summary

Hanging sheers with your draperies is a great way to give your window a makeover. We hope that this has been helpful to you while completing your project.

For more helpful tips, check out these articles!

How To Layer Curtains and Sheers [6 Suggestions]

How To Combine Sheer And Blackout Curtains?

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