Do you like the look of curtains billowing in and out across your windows? Well, there’s a great way to create this effect while still keeping your curtains looking neat and tidy. With just a few simple steps on how to keep curtains from flaring out at the bottom and tools, you can learn how to keep those curtains from flaring out at the bottom!
Not only does curving or gathering them give them an interesting silhouette, but it emphasizes shapes within other furniture pieces in your room as well. Read on for tips on creating this beautiful window design feature quickly and effectively!
Understanding the Flaring Effect
Curtain flaring occurs when air enters or escapes through tiny gaps in the window panes. This airflow then causes your curtains to billow out at the bottom, which can be frustrating if you prefer a more streamlined look.
To create that sleek and polished aesthetic, it’s essential to understand why this happens and how you can prevent it. The primary culprit for curtain flaring is the air pressure difference between the inside and outside of your windows. When heated air rises, it needs to escape somewhere, and if you’re not careful, those curtains will do just that!
Thankfully there are some very simple ways to keep curtains from flaring out at the bottom.
10 Simple Step-by-step Guidelines on How to Keep Curtains From Flaring Out at the Bottom
Step 1: Check the Curtain Fabric
Not all fabrics are created equal when it comes to curtains. Choosing a fabric with good weight and density will help keep them in check. Consider heavier materials like velvet, suede or wool. If you’re set on using a lighter fabric, simply add a lining to your curtains for extra weight and structure. But avoid sheer fabrics, as they are notorious for flaring out at the bottom. Always ensure that the fabric is slightly wider than your window so that it hangs with a slight curve, preventing any billowing.
Step 2: Install a Valance
A valance is simply an additional piece of fabric or board placed at the top of your curtains. It helps to hold them in place and gives them a cleaner, more tailored look. Not only does this add an extra element of design, but it also helps to block out any airflow from the top of your window. You can easily purchase a valance or make one yourself using the same fabric as your curtains. It’s a great way to add a personal touch to your window design!
Step 3: Use Curtain Weights
Curtain weights are small attachments that you sew onto the bottom hem of your curtains. They come in various shapes and sizes, and their purpose is to hold down your curtains and prevent them from flaring out. You can also make your own curtain weights by sewing small coins or washers into the hem. But be sure to evenly distribute them along the entire bottom hem for a balanced effect. You can also opt for magnetic curtain weights, which easily attach to the inside of your curtains.
Step 4: Adjust the Curtain Rod Placement
If your curtains are not hanging at the correct angle, they will be more prone to flaring out at the bottom. Ensure that your curtain rod is placed high enough and extends past the width of your window to create a slight outward curve. This will help to keep your curtains in place and prevent any billowing.
Step 5: Use Curtain Tiebacks
Curtain tiebacks are a great way to add a touch of elegance to your window treatments while also keeping them from flaring out at the bottom. Simply gather the curtains in the middle and secure them with a decorative tieback. This will create a beautiful swag effect and keep your curtains looking neat and tidy.
Step 6: Try Magnetic Curtain Clips
Magnetic curtain clips are another handy tool for keeping your curtains from flaring out. Simply attach them to the bottom hem of your curtains and secure them to the metal rod or rings. They provide enough weight to hold down your curtains while still allowing them to move slightly for a billowy effect.
Step 7: Use Curtain Rings with Clips
Curtain rings with clips are another great option for adding weight to your curtains. They attach directly to the curtain fabric and can easily be slid along the rod to adjust the fullness and prevent any flaring at the bottom. It’s a quick and easy solution that doesn’t require any sewing! But be sure to choose rings with clips that are the right size for your rod and curtain thickness.
Step 8: Invest in a Curtain Tension Rod
Curtain tension rods are great for smaller windows and can be easily adjusted to fit the width of your window. Placing one at the top and bottom of your curtains creates a taut line that holds them in place and prevents any flaring. This is a great option if you’re renting and can’t make any permanent changes to your window treatments. You can also use a tension rod in conjunction with other methods, such as curtain weights or clips.
Step 9: Install Window Film
If you have an older window with gaps that are hard to seal, consider installing a window film. This will prevent any air from entering or escaping through the panes and keep your curtains from flaring out at the bottom. However, if your window has an insect screen, you may need to remove it as the film works best when in direct contact with the glass. It’s also important to carefully follow the instructions for installation to ensure that it is properly sealed and effective.
Step 10: Use Adhesive Tape
If all else fails, try using some adhesive tape to secure your curtains in place. Simply attach small pieces of tape between the curtain fabric and the wall or window frame to keep them from billowing out at the bottom. Always make sure the tape is secure but also easy to remove without causing any damage. This is a temporary solution that can work well, especially for lightweight curtains.
Following these simple steps on how to keep curtains from flaring out at the bottom and using the right tools, you can easily achieve a sleek and sophisticated look for your curtains without any flaring at the bottom. So go ahead and enjoy those beautiful billowing curtains without worrying about them getting out of control! Keep in mind that finding the perfect balance between weight, fabric, and placement is key to preventing this pesky problem. Experiment with different techniques until you find what works best for your specific windows and curtains.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How Do I Choose the Right Curtain Fabric to Prevent Flaring at the Bottom?
A1: Choose a heavier fabric such as velvet, suede or wool, or add a lining for extra weight and structure. Avoid sheer fabrics which are notorious for flaring out at the bottom.
Q2: Can I Use Curtain Weights on All Types of Curtains?
A2: Yes, curtain weights can be used on all types of curtains as long as there is enough space in the hem to insert them. If you have sheer curtains, consider using magnetic weights for an easier solution.
Q3: How Do I Know if My Curtain Rod is Placed Correctly?
A3: Measure the width of your window and add at least 4-6 inches on each side. This will give you enough space for the curtains to hang in a slight outward curve, preventing any flaring at the bottom. If you are using curtain rings, make sure they are evenly spaced and not too far apart.
Q4: Are Curtain Tiebacks Only for Decorative Purposes?
A4: No, curtain tiebacks also serve the practical purpose of keeping curtains from flaring out at the bottom. They gather and hold the fabric in place, preventing any billowing. It is recommended to use tiebacks for heavier curtains.
Conclusion
To recap, we’ve reviewed how to keep curtains from flaring out at the bottom by tucking extra fabric underneath the hem, stitching pins along the curtain lining, making sure clips hold tightly to the edge of the window panel, and using a steam iron or steamer to press out the wrinkles. Not only will these steps keep your curtains looking neat and tidy, but they will also help to protect your furniture belongings and maintain an overall cozy atmosphere in your home.
We hope you feel more confident now that you know how to keep your curtains from flaring out at the bottom! If you have any other suggestions or techniques that work well for you—share them with us. Let’s join together as a community of homemaker experts and make sure our homes are always looking exactly as we envision it! Go ahead and give it a try today—you won’t regret it!
You can check it out Hang Curtains on Windows With Crown Molding