Curtains that Fit Angled Window Frames

Angled windows add architectural interest and allow more natural light into a room. However, their unique shapes often make finding properly fitting curtains a challenge.

Angled windows come in many varieties - from simple corners to dramatic angles, arched tops, and uneven sides. While aesthetically pleasing, their slopes, angles, and irregular dimensions create difficulties when selecting ready-made curtains. Standard curtains rarely have the proper fullness or shape to neatly drape within angled frames.

Common Issues and Solutions

Some common frustrations homeowners face include:

• Gaps of exposed window or wall from ill-fitting panels
• Curtains falling unevenly on inclined windows
• Inadequate lighting control from poor coverage
• Limited style selection for peculiarly shaped spaces

But various specialty curtains and customize options can solve these issues. Custom-sewn curtains made explicitly for your window specifications allow for the perfect lightweight solution for awkward angles and sizes. We'll review the best curtains and hardware to properly outfit your uniquely shaped windows.

Measuring Your Angled Windows

Like any window treatment project, accurately measuring angled windows is the critical first step. Gather a steel tape measure, pencil, paper, and camera to capture all the specifications professional window treatment makers will need to sew customized curtains.

Tools You'll Need

Having the right tools makes a world of difference:

• Metal tape measure with extra length
• Pencil and eraser
• Graph paper
• Digital camera
• Step ladder or small stool

Use a durable steel tape measure with extra length to account for angled areas. Pencil and graph paper will help diagram the precise specifications. A camera lets you visually record the unconventional nature of the windows. And a step stool provides safe access to hard-to-reach spots for short homeowners like us!

Unique Aspects to Measure

Some unusual elements to capture when measuring angled windows include:

• Variable heights from top to bottom of frame
• Degree of diagonal slope
• Offset centers and angled edges
• Inconsistent windowsill and apron depths

Note measurements at multiple points rather than assuming standard dimensions. For example, diagram the shortest, tallest and middle window heights independently. Accurately conveying angles and inconsistencies will ensure properly fitting customized curtains.

Best Practices for Precise Dimensions

Follow these best practices when measuring:

• Record shortest, longest and middle widths
• Measure sill depth at far left, far right and center
• Note ceiling height at frame edges and middle
• Mark position of brackets, handles or obstacles

Capturing various vantage points accounts for fluctuations across the slopes and angles. This detailed information helps create precision-tailored curtains.

Types of Curtains for Angled Windows

Several curtain types work beautifully within irregular angled spaces when custom-sewn and installed using specialized hardware:

Tailored Angled Curtains

The most exact option, tailored angled curtains, are cut and sewn to match the exact window specifications. With hems and headers finished to accommodate scarce hardware placements, these offer full coverage and uniform hanging.

Straight Rod Pocket Curtains

For simple angled windows, straight curtains with top and bottom hems suited to the height of your window can suffice. Allow ample additional width to accommodate the angle and create fullness.

Tier Curtains and Arched Treatments

Tier, waterfall and rippled curtains create lovely treatments for arched windows. Layering tailored swags upon straight panels enhances covered while introducing added softness.

Custom Angled Valances

Mounted high upon the window frame and cascading downward at an angle, custom valances complement the window's shape. Combine with straight panels beneath for a polished frame effect.

Curved Rods to Fit Angled Corners

Curved traverse rods that mount closely into the frame opening offer another customized solution. Straight curtains can then draw smoothly across the bend.

Fabrics and Styles

Choosing suitable fabrics and styles is equally important in outfitting angled windows. Follow these guidelines when selecting materials and designs:

Recommended Fabrics

Consider sheers or light-diffusing fabrics. These allow light to filter through while obscuring views. Linen or textured materials help hide curvature lines, as do small patterned prints.

Pattern and Texture Considerations

Substantial patterns and heavily textured fabrics emphasize uneven lines and disproportionate scaling on steep angles. Instead, opt for:

• Solid colors
• Subtle textures like seersuckers
• Tone-on-tone or small prints

Top Styles and Looks

Tailored, pleated and rippled headers lend beautiful styles. Grommets fitted along the top hem provide flexibility in pulling curtain panels neatly across off-set windows. For privacy, consider layering sheers with complementary blackout panels.

Layering Window Treatments

Mix various curtain lengths and facings to soften angular lines:

• Floor length sheers
• Crisscrossing cafe styles
• Tiered swags
• Contrasting valances

Achieve Privacy in Odd Spaces

Blackout lining added to light-diffusing sheers blocks outside visibility while allowing healthy natural light inside. Strategic placement of multiple layered panels can also obscure angled exposure.

Installation of Angled Window Curtains

Proper installation ensures curtains hang beautifully within angled windows year after year. Follow these tips when mounting hardware and arranging panels:

Prepare for Installing on Angled Frames

Have the following supplies on hand:

• Screwdriver
• Measuring tape
• Pencil
• Level
• Step stool

Use a step stool for safe access to sloped ceilings or second story windows. Pencil mark bracket locations before drilling to avoid mistakes.

Specialized Curtain Hardware

Custom brackets, elongated rods and flexible traverses bend to fit the frame:

• Extendable arms reach odd spots
• Jointed rods form angles
• Bendy spring rods conform to shape

Hanging Techniques for Off-Center Windows

Center ceiling brackets anchor the hardware, while adjustable side mounts conform to the window. Stagger panel lengths to distribute weight evenly across imbalanced spans.

Tips to Keep Curtains Uniform on Slopes

• Overlap uneven edges
• Secure uneven hemlines with weights or clips
• Use s-hooks to connect sides

Creative Solutions for Partial Glass Coverage

Consider architectural accents like framed molding, rail systems or wall decor to fill unused areas.

Where to Buy Angled Window Curtains

Finding retailers experienced in specialty angled windows ensures access to quality materials, skilled craftsmanship and customized options. We recommend exploring:

Custom Designers and Workrooms

Local interior design studios and custom curtain workrooms have pattern makers that can sew treatments to your exact specifications. They also offer wide selections of beautiful, quality fabrics.

Big Box Stores with Custom Programs

Some home improvement retailers like Home Depot or Lowes can customize curtains or refer you to regional craftspeople specializing in specialty window designs.

Online Retailers with Specialty Options

National retailers like SelectBlinds, Blindster and WindowCurtains offer angled curtain kits, building your panels to size and shape. Watch for promotions and sales around the holidays.

Benefits of Custom Making Your Own

For crafty homeowners with sewing skills, custom making DIY angled curtains allows complete control over fabrics, construction quality and costs.

Costs and Budgeting

Prices for custom angled curtains vary greatly depending on size, fabrics and styling. Generally expect to invest more for the specialty materials and labor compared to standard vertical window treatments. Here are some cost considerations:

Factors Impacting Price

• Window size
• Fabric types and patterns chosen
• Layered versus single panels
• Additional lining
• Embellishments like trims or motifs

Average Pricing Estimates

Expect to budget about:

• $100 - $300 per window for DIY custom-made
• $300 - $600 per window for semi-custom
• $600 - $1,500+ per window for expertly bespoke designs

DIY Savings vs Custom Order

Custom-making angled curtains at home costs an average 50-75% less than workroom-sewn. But reasonable middle ground exists with retailers offering customization services.

Quality Comparisons Across Suppliers

Typically local interior designers offer the highest quality workmanship and fabrics, with big box stores meeting basic standards. Online retailers convenience appeals to many clients on a budget.

Design Inspiration

Angled windows invite opportunities to introduce captivating styles that accentuate architectural details. Take inspiration from these stunning spaces:

Modern Style Angled Window Curtains

Forward-thinking contemporary spaces pair sleek lines with lavish fabrics in unexpected ways. Oversized panels make dynamic statements, while backlighting creates moody focal points.

Eclectic and Creative Curtain Ideas

Artistic free-spirited interiors layer sumptuous textures and divide open concept floorplans. Bohemian living rooms mix delicate sheers with cozy knits and chic geometrics.

Formal Treatments for Arched Windows

Sophisticated arched layouts elegantly frame views with tailored symmetry. Crisp pleats, gentle swags and matching angled valances promote refined continuity.

Complement Architectural Details

Attractive cornice trim, matching sloped walls and warm lighting properly spotlight unique beveled windows. Integrated wood blinds sync with flooring and built-ins.

FAQs

Discover answers to common questions about curtains for angled windows:

Do standard curtains work on angled windows?

Sometimes for subtle angles. But most require customization for ideal fit, fullness and uniform hanging alignment.

What hardware works best?

Extendable or bendable traverse rods allow precision mounting close to uneven window frames. Custom brackets secure them in place.

Can I install them myself?

Basic DIY skills can accomplish simple small window treatments. But complex arched or hard-to-access windows benefit from professional installation.

How do I measure uneven windows?

Note the shortest, tallest and middle widths and heights. Capture depth inconsistencies across sills and tops to convey off-centered slopes.

With considerable style options now available, it's easier than ever to properly outfit your uniquely angled windows with custom curtains tailored to match their architectural contours.

Careful measurements, selecting suitable fabrics and hardware, layering complementary designs, and finding an experienced workroom ensures treatments not only enhance but transform your beautiful angled windows.

We hope these essential tips give you confidence to finally tackle your awkward window covering needs. Reach out anytime for personalized guidance in elevating your space with window fashions customized to delight!