How To Hang Curtains Over Blinds That Stick Out

Upgraded Home Team
by Upgraded Home Team

You may have come across this problem before. You want to put up curtains over your blinds that stick out but don’t know precisely how to go about it. We have the answers you are looking for! We will show you exactly how to hang curtains over blinds, even if the blinds stick out from the wall.

To hang curtains over blinds that stick out, you must use a bracket to extend your curtain rod. First, measure your window and curtains to make sure the curtains will cover the window and blinds. Then install the bracket, hang the rod, and put up the curtains. This is an easy process that only takes a few tools and a little bit of elbow grease.

Since the brackets will stick out a little bit, you will want to consider using sheetrock anchors to allow for a few extra pounds of weight. Unless you are fortunate enough to have studs in just the right spot to screw into. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps so that you can do this correctly.

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Why Not Get Rid Of The Blinds?

There could be many situations where you may want to go over existing blinds with curtains. You may want to save time by not having to remove the blinds. Or, you may want to double the layer of privacy. Blinds are good at blocking out light and keeping your home private.

Adding curtains over blinds not only adds more privacy but gives you a more elegant look inside your home. If the light is the issue, then darker curtains can help block out whatever light is making it through the blinds. Either way, adding curtains over blinds that stick out can make your home look better, stay a cooler temperature, and keep you from doing extra work, from having to remove the blinds.

Installation Methods

There are several methods of installation. You can use brackets that extend out over the blinds. Some brackets will even hold the blinds, and the curtains, if you are thinking of installing both new. You also have the option of a track system that installs to the ceiling—allowing you to roll the curtains out.

The most basic system uses small brackets that extend out past the depth of your blinds. You can install these on the wall just above the window.

Tools For Hanging Curtains Over Blinds

You only need a few tools for hanging curtains over blinds. Most of these tools you may have at home. If you don’t have any of these tools, consider borrowing them or purchasing a set. Tools always come in handy.

Tools for hanging curtains over blinds:

  • Tape measure
  • Screwdriver or screw gun
  • Hammer
  • Pencil and note pad

You will use the tape measure to measure how wide your window is and how wide your curtains are. Don’t forget to write down these measurements so you can keep them for later. You want to make sure the curtains cover the blinds completely. The screwdriver, or screw gun, will be used to install the screws into the brackets.

The hammer is optional in case you want to add sheetrock anchors, to support the weight of heavier curtains. You can also try to screw the screws into studs in the wall by locating the studs. This option only works if there are studs conveniently located where your brackets will need to go.

How To Hang Curtains Over Blinds: Step by Step

These steps are straightforward; the project should take no longer than 1-hour. So let’s get started!

  • Measure the width of your window and the blinds. You will need to make sure the curtains you pick out will be wide enough to cover both. Otherwise, your curtains will look silly, and they won’t do the job you need them to do.
  • Make sure your curtain rod is sticking out. You want your curtain rod and curtains to stick out around 2 inches on each side past the blinds.
  • Record your measurements. Write your measurements down on your tablet and have them handy for when you need them.
  • Pick out the set of curtains you want. Use the measurements you have written down on your pad as a guide. Decide if you want them to hang just below the window or to the floor. The length of the curtains depends entirely on the style you are looking for.
  • Measure and locate where the brackets go. If you are wanting to screw into studs. You will have measured and located them, marking where each bracket goes. You will attach your brackets in these spots.
  • Make the markings. Mark the holes where the screws go in the brackets on the wall as reference points.
  • Install your anchors if you need them. Install the sheetrock anchors if needed, following the instructions provided with the anchors. However, not everyone will need these.
  • Attach the brackets on both ends first. Tighten the screws, and check to make sure everything is lined up. Afterward, you will need to install the middle bracket.
  • Attach your curtains to the rod using the curtain rods. Now you will attach the curtains to the rod, with curtain rings, and hang the rod and curtains into the curved brackets. Tighten the set screws on the brackets to the rod. Adjust the curtains, so they are in position.

And that’s it! You have successfully installed curtains over your blinds.

Design Ideas For Curtains Over Blinds

There are many types of blinds that you can choose from, including:

  • Wood blinds
  • Bamboo blinds
  • Venetian blinds
  • And many others!

Having the curtains compliment the blinds is an excellent design tip. Suppose your blinds are colored blinds, brown, black, or some other color. Choose a set of curtains that will look good with them. Your home is a place where you get to decide precisely how you want it to look and feel. One of the most comfortable interior design methods is to choose curtains that complement the room or décor.

Also, some curtains are designed so they can be tied back in the middle. This looks good over a nice set of blinds. It gives the window more depth and provides the room with a more sophisticated look and feel.

Tips And Tricks for Hanging Curtains

I’ve put up a lot of curtains in my days. So I’ve got some tips and tricks to help you get started with your project.

Tips and tricks for hanging curtains:

  • You’re not always going to find studs to screw into. In this case, consider using sheetrock anchors. Curtains and rods can be heavy, and the added support will keep any accidents from happening. Although, if you don’t need these, then don’t worry about them. Some people are lucky enough to have a strong enough wall or find light-weight materials.
  • Always double check your measurements. This may seem like more work, but double-checking measurements can save you from additional work, from mistakes you may have made in the numbers.
  • Write your measurements down. I have a good memory, but I can even forget a number right after taking the measurement. Keep a note pad handy, and jot down any numbers.
  • Make sure you have all the tools you need. You will want everything at arm’s length. Having everything you need will keep the project going, without any interruptions from needing a device you don’t have.

Related Questions

If I’m renting, can I still put holes in the walls for the brackets?

In most cases, minor things like screw holes are not that big of a deal when renting. They are easy to fill with spackling when you are done. If you are worried, it may be against the rules, read your contract, or ask your landlord if it would be alright.

What if the blinds stick out far?

If the blinds stick out far enough that you worry you won’t be able to find brackets that will work. Consider using larger, heavy-duty brackets. They will stick out longer and can be installed with sheetrock anchors to keep them in place without falling out.

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Wrapping It Up

If you have blinds, keep them! Or, if you want, purchase some better ones that will tie into your preferred style even better. Regardless though, you should keep your blinds. Adding the curtains over and around them will give your home a nice look, and they also provide extra security when paired together.

However, when you’re hanging your curtains, make sure that you write your measurements down and have all the tools available that you need. This will help so that you don’t waste too much time trying to backtrack and figure things out as you go.

Regardless, hanging curtains is extremely easy. As long as you measure correctly and the curtain rod sticks out further than your blinds do, you’ll have a beautiful window space to look at with some added colors and decor. Just make sure your blinds aren’t sticking out, and you’re good to go!

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Upgraded Home Team
Upgraded Home Team

We are a team of passionate homeowners, home improvement pros, and DIY enthusiasts who enjoy sharing home improvement, housekeeping, decorating, and more with other homeowners! Whether you're looking for a step-by-step guide on fixing an appliance or the cost of installing a fence, we've here to help.

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