1. Measure the width of your window, including any molding. Add an additional 8 inches for single
windows, or an additional 14 inches for double or larger windows. The total is the necessary curtain
rod length before you add finials. The extra inches provide stacking space on each side of the
window, which lets you open the curtains without blocking too much glass.
2. Measure the diameter of a grommet opening, not including the metal rim. Subtract 1/2 inch from the
result for the maximum curtain rod diameter you can use. Opt for a smooth, pole-style curtain rod
equaling the length from Step 1. Choose a style with small finials that suit the simplicity of the
curtain style, and select a finish that matches or complements the grommet finish.
3. Measure the width of one of the grommet-topped curtain panels. Double the curtain rod length from
Step 1, and divide the result by the curtain panel width. Round up to the next even number for the
total number of curtain panels you need.
4. Lay one of the curtain panels flat. Measure from the inside top of one of the grommets to the panel’s
bottom hem.
5. Position a stepladder in front of the window. At the top edge of the window frame, find the center
and mark it with a pencil. Extend a metal measuring tape downward until it reaches the floor.
Without lifting the tape from the floor, extend the top of the measuring tape until it equals the
curtain panel length from Step 4. Mark that location -- ideally 2 to 4 inches above the window frame
-- with a pencil and then erase the previous pencil mark.
6. Divide the curtain rod length from Step 1 in half. While standing on your stepladder, measure out to
that distance on each side of the pencil mark. Mark the new locations with the pencil. The new marks
designate the ends of the curtain rod.
7. Mark the curtain rod bracket locations using the pencil marks as a guide. Follow the manufacturer’s
instructions for placing and mounting the brackets, which vary.
8. Lay one of the curtain panels right side up. Thread the curtain rod through the front side of the first
grommet, then thread it through the back of the second grommet. Repeat with the rest of the
grommets in the panel, alternating between front and back. Repeat with the rest of the panels.
9. Hold the curtain rod so the right sides of the curtains face you. Mount your stepladder and center the
rod above the window. With the ends of the curtain rods even with the end pencil marks, place the
rod on its brackets. Fasten the curtain rod to the brackets as instructed by the manufacturer. Screw
the finials onto the ends of the rod. Erase the pencil marks if they’re visible. Adjust the curtain folds
as needed.