IKEA Curtains & Blinds Guide: Planning and Styling

1. Measure the height of your window frame. Add 10 cm on the top to get the right position of your curtain rod, rail or blind.
2. Measure the width of your window. Add at least 10 cm on each side to get the right width of your curtain rod or rail. To pull your curtains or panel curtains back further, add more.
3. Measure the inner width of your window frame when mounting blinds inside the frame. This is to make sure the blinds cover the complete window.
4. Measure the inner height of your window frame to know what length you’ll need on your blinds.
5. Measure the height of the wall if you want a floor-to-ceiling window treatment. Subtract 5-10 cm. from the actual height to give space for the curtain rod or rail.

Tip: Use our curtain measurement guide before shopping to ensure you get the right curtain fabric amount. Download measurement guide 

Step 2: Choose curtains with open and hidden tabs

Open tab curtains reveal the rod for a more casual look while tabs tucked behind the fabric create a cleaner finish. These curtains can be hung with a curtain rod, paired with either a wall or ceiling mount.

Curtains with open and hidden tabs

Step 3: Choose your curtain hook style

The curtain hook style affects how your curtains drape, move, and the overall look of your window treatment.

1. Curtain rod with rings
   This hook style provides flexible movement by allowing the hook loops to freely slide along the rod. For this style, you’ll need a curtain rod, rings, hooks, and optional closing knobs. You may find these here.
2. Curtain rails with hooks and runners
   The hooks and runners style is ideal for a sleek look, especially for long or layered curtains. It creates a more organised look by encasing the movement of the hooks through runners attached to a rail. You may find these here.
3. Curtain rod with rings and clips (for sheer fabric)
   The clips hang from the rings, allowing the fabric to move freely along the rod without the need for sewn-in tabs or hooks. The clips grip the fabric directly, letting you adjust easily.
4. Curtain spiral with hooks and clips (for sheer fabric)
   Uses a steel cable instead of a rod, perfect for small spaces or a modern look. Hooks with clips attach directly to the fabric.
   
5. Curtains with rod pocket
   A simple sleeve runs through the top of the curtain, so you can slide it straight onto the rod. This style is aimed at creating a simple and chic look with minimal visible elements.
6. Curtains with eyelets
   Metal-ringed holes let you thread the curtain directly onto the rod, creating uniform folds when closed. Using this style portrays elegance and is perfect for a more sophisticated look.

Step 4: Calculate the number of brackets

Measure the width of your curtain rod or rail to determine how many brackets you need to support the rod and prevent the curtains from sagging. Use the following guide: 

• Rod length 140 cm – 2 brackets (one at each end)
• Rod length 140–280 cm – 3 brackets (one at each end, one in the middle)
• Rod length 280–420 cm – 4 brackets (one at each end, two spaced evenly in between)

Step-by-step on how to hang curtains like a pro

Not sure where to start? Watch our easy-to-follow IKEA video tutorial that shows you how to hang your curtains confidently whether you’re using rods, rails, or clips. From simple setups to layered styles, you’ll get tips to match different curtain hook types and pleats for a clean, stylish finish.

Prefer a quick DIY fix but no sewing machine?

No worries! Try our hemming strip—no sewing needed, just fold and iron. Suitable for hemming after shortening the length or joining curtains for a wider window.