Consider French Return Curtain Rods

French return curtain rods, sometimes called French poles, are a popular drapery hardware choice that can lend elegance and sophistication to any room. Unlike regular straight curtain rods that end abruptly, French return rods curve back to the wall, allowing curtains to stack attractively off to the sides. This creates a clean, cohesive look and provides the ability to have full closure over the window or door opening.

Read on to learn why French return rods are a curtain style mainstay in many homes.

Defining French Return Curtain Rods

So what exactly are French return curtain rods? Here's a quick primer before we dive deeper:

• Origins and history behind french return style rods - The graceful return style rod dates back centuries to the decoration of French chateaus and estates. The distinctive shape allowed flowing curtains to elegantly frame tall French doors and windows.
• Difference between straight and return curtain rods - Straight rods end bluntly in a wall mount or finial. French return rods curve back to the wall, sometimes called a "return." This allows curtain fabric to stack attractively off to the sides.
• Why choose french return rods over other styles - They provide a clean, polished look with no gap at the edges, enabling full closure. The wrapped shape also elegantly shows off more of the curtain fabric.
• Unique benefits of french return rod brackets - Come in a variety of turned or decorative end brackets to mount the return ends flush to the wall for stability and support.

French Return Rod Design and Styles

For a seamless, upscale look it's important to choose the right French return rod design elements for your space. Here are some top considerations:

• Different finial styles for french return rods - Choose from simple metal balls, crystal accents, scrolling fleur-de-lis, decorative leaf or acorn shapes, and more.
• Matching french rod colors and metal finishes - Select return rods in polished nickel, brass, bronze, black, or gold tones. Match existing decor and lighting fixtures.
• Coordinating brackets and hardware - Brackets should complement the style and finish of the rod itself. Keep everything cohesive.
• Custom or standard sized french return rods - Get standard sizes or customize return rod length to exactly fit your window widths.

Measuring and Installing French Return Rods

A proper DIY install is key to French return rods functioning correctly and showcasing curtains as intended. Avoid common mistakes with these essential tips:

• Taking precise window measurements - Carefully measure and account for return projection depths beyond the window edges.
• Mounting french return rod brackets - Use correctly sized drill bits and anchors. Level securely.
• Cutting curtain rods to needed window width - Cut metal rods with a pipe cutter, not a saw to avoid fraying.
• Easy step-by-step DIY instruction guide - Follow detailed product instructions to ensure correct bracket positioning and rod returns on both sides.

Hanging Curtains on French Return Rods

Achieving an optimal draped look involves a few curtain hanging tips and tricks:

• Allowing optimal floor clearance - Mount high enough so curtains clear floor or sills without bunching up.
• Preventing curtain bunching or uneven hanging - Use rings, grommets or back tabs evenly spaced along the top hem.
• Choosing correct curtain widths and lengths - For floor-length, curtains should be 1.5x the rod length. Or puddle 2" if above the floor.
• Layering curtains and adding decorative touches - Hang sheers behind blackout panels. Tie back drapes with cords to show the return shape.

French Return Rods with Different Window Types

The wrap-around elegance of French return curtain rods also works beautifully on speciality and architectural windows:

• French door curtains and french return rods - Use two separate rods or extra long rod spanning the entire opening.
• Corner window solutions using return rods - Bend into perfect 90 degree returns on both sides.
• Arched or specialty shaped window treatments - Coordinate with the exact radius of the architectural shape.
• Glass panel dividers and french rods - Flawlessly frame the straight edges of glass pane dividers or room separators.

Additional French Rod Styling Considerations

• Ceiling height and french rod positioning - Mount rods near the ceiling on standard height windows for a grand look.
• Wall space and optimal rod projection - Extend 12-24" beyond window frames to showcase the return shape based on wall space.
• Coordinating swags, jabots, scarves - Layer on matching swag valances, cascading jabot trims, or scarf swag accents.
• Incorporating decorative trim and tiebacks - Crystal rope tiebacks or twisted cord complements the tailored style.

Common Mistakes to Avoid with French Rods

• Mounting rods too close to ceiling - Can make curtains bunch unattractively or not stack right.
• Selecting a rod that's too short - Won't provide enough projection for proper return shape.
• Forgetting to account for return/projection - Only buying the window's exact width leaves rods too short once extended from the wall.
• Putting rods up too high reducing floor clearance - Results in puddling, bunching, and uneven hanging.

FAQ and Troubleshooting French Return Rod Issues

Run into problems with your French return curtain rods? Here are some common troubleshooting questions and answers:

• Why do my curtains not close fully? - Rods mounted too closely to the ceiling or finials/brackets positioned unevenly are often the culprit.
• What causes curtain bunching on my rod? - Mounting too high reduces floor clearance. Rings or grommets not spaced evenly along top hem.
• My finials unscrew or rods sag over time. Why? - Apply thread glue or replacements from the manufacturer. Avoid hanging overly heavy curtains weighing down rods over time.
• What is the best french rod and finial material? - Steel and solid brass offer the most durability for household use without sagging over time.

Costs and Where to Buy French Return Rods

Ready to shop for French return curtain rods? Here's what to expect:

• Average prices and value considerations - Mid-tier steel French rods with brackets run $25-$100+ on average. Solid brass $150+.
• Brick and mortar vs online ordering - Shop designer showrooms or big box stores to see rods in person. Order basic styles more affordably online.
• Recommended top retailers and brands - Pottery Barn, Ballard Designs, Restoration Hardware, West Elm, Umbra, AmazonBasics all carry quality affordable options.
• Sales, discounts, promos for french rods - Sign up for store emails and watch for seasonal sales, especially January for home goods savings after the holidays.