Getting curtain sizes right has an effect on your room’s appearance, either positively or negatively. They seem like an afterthought since they are too short. Your windows look smaller when too narrow.
Many people grab standard sizes without measuring carefully, and they end up with a less polished look.
Proper sizing makes such an outstanding difference as I’ve seen with styling windows hundreds of times. To make rooms feel larger, hang curtains high and wide. This is a quick designer tip that will leave all of your rooms feeling much more finished.
This guide shows you how you can measure with correctness as well as avoid all mistakes. This guide helps with choosing curtain dimensions suited for your space.
Why Curtain Height Matters
Hanging curtains close to the ceiling rather than right above the window frame makes your walls appear taller. The eye follows the vertical line upward, drawing attention from floor to ceiling.
This becomes especially noticeable in rooms with 8-foot ceilings, where high-hung curtains make the space feel more open and airy.
Many people install curtain rods directly above their window frames. This mistake makes your ceilings look shorter by creating a horizontal line that cuts the wall.
Short curtains create an awkward gap above the floor that looks unfinished. Proper-length curtains should either just kiss the floor or pool slightly for a polished appearance.
Recommended Curtain Length for 8-Foot Ceilings
For 8-foot ceilings, 96-inch curtains are the perfect choice. This length allows you to hang the rod close to the ceiling while ensuring the fabric reaches the floor properly. Many people reach for 84-inch curtains because they seem logical, but this is too short.
When you hang the rod near the ceiling, 84-inch curtains leave several inches of exposed wall above the floor, creating an awkward floating look.
“Kissing” the floor means your curtains just barely touch the ground without dragging, which is the most practical option. The fabric grazes the floor lightly, creating a clean, finished appearance.
Avoid puddling unless you’re going for a formal, luxurious aesthetic. Puddling means curtains pool on the floor with extra fabric, which collects dirt and can be a tripping hazard for most everyday spaces.
Curtain Rod Placement
Proper curtain rod placement maximizes visual height and window exposure. Learn exact measurements for hanging rods that look professionally installed.
How High to Hang the Rod
Place your curtain rod 2 to 3 inches below the ceiling or crown molding. This creates maximum visual height and makes your room feel taller.
The rod should sit 4 to 6 inches above the window frame to ensure the curtain fabric doesn’t block the glass when open.
Rod Width
Extend your curtain rod 6 to 12 inches beyond the window frame on each side.
When you open the curtains, the fabric stacks entirely off the glass, allowing full window exposure and maximum natural light. This also makes your windows appear larger.
Bracket Placement Tips
Space brackets at least 2 to 3 inches from the decorative finials at rod ends for smooth curtain movement.
For standard windows, two brackets work fine. Wider windows may need a center support bracket to prevent sagging under the weight of heavy curtains.
Choosing the Right Curtain Style
Select the perfect curtain style based on your room’s function, aesthetic preference, and whether you need privacy or purely decorative appeal.
Casual vs. Formal Styles
Ripple fold and grommet curtains offer a relaxed, modern look that’s easy to use. Ripple fold creates soft waves using a track system, while grommet curtains have metal rings that slide smoothly along the rod.
Both work perfectly for everyday spaces like family rooms and bedrooms.
Pinch, French, and goblet pleats bring formality and drama to your windows. These tailored styles feature structured folds that create a refined appearance suited for formal dining rooms or master bedrooms. They typically require professional installation and dry cleaning.
Functional vs. Decorative
Full-length curtains provide privacy and insulation. They block views from outside and keep cold or hot air out, potentially reducing energy bills. Choose heavier fabrics like velvet or lined curtains for maximum benefits.
Decorative panels are stationary curtains that frame windows without closing fully. They soften window edges and add color without blocking light. These work well where you don’t need privacy, like upper-floor spaces or rooms with existing blinds.
Tools Needed for Installation
Gather these important tools before starting your curtain installation to ensure smooth, accurate mounting and professional results every time.
Drill and Drill Bits
A drill and appropriate drill bits are essential for creating holes in your wall. Make sure bits are sized correctly for your screws. A cordless drill makes the job easier and faster.
Screws and Drywall Anchors
Screws and drywall anchors secure your curtain rod brackets to the wall. Use wall anchors when not drilling into a stud to prevent the rod from pulling out. Heavy curtains require heavy-duty anchors.
Level, Tape Measure, Stud Finder, Pencil
A level ensures your rod hangs perfectly straight. A tape measure marks the exact placement on both sides. A stud finder locates solid wood for the strongest mounting. A pencil marks drilling spots clearly before making holes.
Step-by-Step Guide to Hanging Curtains
Follow these simple steps to install curtain rods and hang your curtains correctly for a professional, polished look in any room.
Step 1: Mark Rod Height
Measure 2 to 3 inches down from your ceiling and make a pencil mark. Use your level to draw a horizontal line at this height, extending beyond both sides of your window for straight installation.
Step 2: Measure Side Placement for Brackets
Measure 6 to 12 inches beyond each side of your window frame and mark these spots on your line. This extra width allows curtains to stack off the glass when open.
Step 3: Drill Pilot Holes and Install Brackets
Use your stud finder to locate wall studs. Drill directly into studs for the strongest hold, or use drywall anchors if needed. Screw in brackets securely and level.
Step 4: Hang Curtains and Secure Rod
Thread the curtains onto the rod before placing it in brackets. Slide the rod into the bracket slots and secure according to your bracket style. Adjust curtain placement for even distribution.
Pro Tips for a Designer Look
- Always measure your windows and ceiling height before purchasing curtains. Write down measurements and bring them shopping to avoid expensive mistakes.
- Buy longer curtains rather than shorter ones if between sizes. You can easily hem them to fit, but you can’t add length.
- High and wide placement makes even budget curtains appear custom-made. Hanging near the ceiling and extending beyond the window creates a luxurious, professional look.
- Coordinate your rod, finial, and curtain style for a cohesive look. Match metals and choose finials that complement your room’s style for a polished appearance.
Conclusion
Choosing the right curtain sizes for 8-foot ceilings depends upon high rod placement and on 96-inch curtains.
That designer look you’re after is created through these two simple decisions. I used these exact techniques in changing my own living room, and the difference was outstanding.
Careful measurement is important with choosing styles based on decor. Match styles to what the room will do. Are you prepared to have windows that look amazing for you? Try to use these tips today and then see if they do work.
Share all of the results in each of the comments that are below. See our other home decor guides for more style ideas!
Frequently Asked Questions
What length curtains should I buy for 8-foot ceilings?
Buy 96-inch curtains for 8-foot ceilings. This length allows you to hang the rod near the ceiling while ensuring the curtains reach the floor properly.
Can I use 84-inch curtains on 8-foot ceilings?
84-inch curtains are too short for 8-foot ceilings when hung properly. They leave an awkward gap above the floor that looks unfinished and cheapens your room’s appearance.
How high should I hang curtain rods on 8-foot ceilings?
Hang your curtain rod 2 to 3 inches below the ceiling or crown molding. This placement creates maximum visual height and makes your room feel larger.
How far should curtain rods extend past the window?
Extend your curtain rod 6 to 12 inches beyond the window frame on each side. This allows curtains to stack completely off the glass when open, maximizing light.
Should my curtains touch the floor or float above it?
Curtains should just “kiss” the floor by lightly touching it without dragging. Floating curtains look unfinished, while excessive puddling collects dust and creates tripping hazards.
