Dressing an arched window can feel intimidating, but the solution is simpler than you think. The key to figuring out how to put curtains on arched windows is choosing one of three main approaches: mounting a rod above the arch, fitting a custom curved rod inside it, or creating a beautiful, stationary display.

Each method transforms a design challenge into one of your home's most stunning focal points. This guide will walk you through choosing the right style, measuring perfectly, and installing your curtains like a pro.

Table of Contents

• Why Arched Windows Deserve the Perfect Curtains
• Choosing the Right Hardware and Fabric
• How to Measure Your Arched Window for Curtains
• A Practical Guide to Installing Your Curtains
• Creative Ideas and Design Inspiration
• Frequently Asked Questions

Why Arched Windows Deserve the Perfect Curtains

Arched windows are true architectural gems. They add character and grandeur to any room, softening straight lines and drawing the eye upward. This simple curve can make ceilings feel taller and the whole space feel more open.

But let's be honest, that unique shape often leaves us scratching our heads. Do you cover the arch and lose its beautiful form, or leave it bare and give up your privacy?

Luckily, you don't have to choose. The right window treatment will enhance the arch while giving you the light control and privacy you need. Before you jump into picking fabrics, it’s worth thinking about the bigger picture of choosing the right windows and doors for renovations, as these choices affect your home's feel for years to come.

Turning a Challenge into a Highlight

The goal is to frame your beautiful window, not hide it. When you select the right hardware and curtain style, you make that arched window a deliberate, gorgeous statement.

Here’s what you stand to gain:

• Enhanced Architecture: Curtains hung correctly will accentuate the curve, making it an even more impressive feature.
• Improved Functionality: You get control over that afternoon sun, cut down on glare, and add privacy without sacrificing style.
• Elevated Interior Design: A thoughtfully dressed arched window looks custom and intentional, lifting the decor of the entire space. For more ideas, check out our guide to modern curtain ideas.

Joey'z Pro Tip: The biggest mistake is treating an arched window like a problem. Think of it as an opportunity to add a custom, high-end look to your home. It’s a feature worth celebrating, not concealing.

The global window coverings market was valued at $34.50 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow, partly because architectural diversity in new homes is on the rise. This shows a clear demand for custom treatments that fit non-standard shapes like arches.

This guide will break down the best methods to help your arched windows shine. To help you decide, here’s a quick overview of the three main styles.

Quick Guide to Arched Window Curtain Styles

This table sums up the three primary ways to hang curtains on an arched window. Use it to quickly see which method might be the best fit for your home and skill level.

Each of these methods offers a different look and level of functionality. As we go through the steps, think about your daily needs—do you need to open and close the curtains often, or are they more for decoration? Your answer will point you in the right direction.

Choosing the Right Hardware and Fabric

Getting the look right for an arched window comes down to two things: the hardware you choose and the fabric you hang on it. This combination sets the mood for the whole room, affecting both style and how you use your curtains daily. It’s about finding that sweet spot between celebrating the window's shape and getting the privacy you need.

Think of your hardware as the foundation. Each option creates a different look and offers its own level of practicality, so it’s worth considering your goals before you buy.

Selecting Your Arched Window Hardware

When it comes to hardware, you have three main paths to choose from. Each one tackles the challenge of hanging curtains on an arch while creating a distinct visual effect.

• Straight Curtain Rod Above the Arch: This is the most common and versatile solution. Mount a standard rod high above the window's peak, and you can use any ready-made curtain panel. When closed, the curtains provide full coverage, treating the arch like one tall, rectangular window.

• Flexible or Custom-Bent Rod: If you want a look that truly follows the curve of the arch, a flexible track or a custom-bent rod is the way to go. These are installed inside the window frame, hugging the arch's shape perfectly. It's a gorgeous choice for showing off the architecture but works best with lightweight, stationary panels.

• Decorative Medallions or Holdbacks: For a purely decorative touch, medallions are a sophisticated alternative. You install these at points along the arch and artfully drape fabric between them. This creates a fixed, swag-like look that adds softness without covering the view—perfect for a formal living room.

Insider Tip: Always consider the "stack back"—the space your curtains take up when pushed open. For a straight rod, ensure it extends at least 6-10 inches past the window frame on each side. This lets the panels clear the glass completely so you can maximize natural light.

Finding the Perfect Fabric

Hardware sorted? Now for the fun part: picking the fabric. The material you choose has a huge impact on the room's vibe. Your fabric and hardware choices need to work together.

Light and Airy Fabrics:
If you're using a custom-bent rod or medallions to filter light, think about sheer or semi-sheer materials.

• Linen: Gives you a relaxed, organic texture that softens sunlight beautifully.
• Voile or Sheer Cotton: These are incredibly lightweight, making them easy to drape for a breezy, ethereal feel.

Heavy and Functional Fabrics:
When you’re using a straight rod for full coverage, you can go with heavier materials that offer more practical benefits.

• Velvet: Adds luxury while providing fantastic insulation and sound-dampening qualities.
• Blackout-Lined Cotton or Polyester: A no-brainer for bedrooms, these fabrics give you complete light control and privacy.

How to Measure Your Arched Window for Curtains

Getting your measurements right is the single most important part of this project. It’s a bit like baking—if you just eyeball the ingredients, you’re likely to end up with a mess. With a tape measure and a little focus, you can get a perfect, custom-looking fit.

The good news is, you only need three key dimensions. These numbers will guide every decision you make, from fabric quantity to hardware size.

The Three Key Dimensions for Your Arch

To ensure your curtains fit perfectly, focus on these three measurements. I highly recommend using a steel tape measure for accuracy—fabric ones can stretch.

• Width at the Base: Measure the horizontal distance across the bottom of the window, from one inside edge of the frame to the other.
• Height of the Vertical Sides: Measure the height of the straight, rectangular part of your window, from the bottom sill up to where the arch begins to curve. This spot is called the spring line.
• Rise of the Arch: This is the height of the curved section itself. Measure from that spring line up to the highest point at the peak of the arch.

This illustration shows the basic parts of an arch and helps you visualize that all-important spring line.

This diagram clearly marks the spring line, the crucial transition point where the straight sides end and the curve begins. Finding this spot is essential for accurate measurements.

The Pro Tip for a Flawless Fit

Want an insider trick that guarantees your custom rod or fabric will fit perfectly? Make a paper template. This step is a game-changer, especially for a custom-bent rod.

Expert Insight: I always recommend taping butcher paper over the arch and tracing its exact curve. You can then cut it out and send this physical template to your custom rod fabricator. It completely eliminates guesswork and ensures a perfect fit every time.

How Mounting Style Affects Measurements

Where you plan to install your hardware will slightly change your measurements. This detail is crucial because it directly impacts the final curtain length and width.

Inside Mount:
If you’re fitting a flexible track inside the arch, your measurements need to be exact. Measure the precise interior curve of the frame. There’s no room for error here, so measure twice!

Outside Mount:
For a straight rod mounted above the arch, you have more flexibility. Extend the rod 6 to 10 inches beyond the window frame on each side. This gives curtains enough space to stack back neatly. You’ll also want to mount the rod at least halfway between the top of the arch and the ceiling to create an illusion of height.

For a deeper dive into standard measurements, our complete curtains measuring guide is an excellent resource.

A Practical Guide to Installing Your Curtains

Alright, you've got your measurements and materials. Now for the fun part—bringing it all to life. I'll walk you through the most common methods, breaking them down into simple steps.

Before you start, grab your tools: a drill, a level, a measuring tape, and a pencil will make this project much smoother.

This infographic is a great visual reminder of the key measurements we talked about: the window width, the height of the straight sides, and the rise of the arch.

Nailing these three dimensions is the foundation for everything that comes next. Now, let’s get into the specifics for each installation style.

Step 1: Mounting a Straight Rod Above the Arch

This is the most straightforward and popular approach. The main goal here is to create an illusion of height, making your already gorgeous window feel even grander.

1. Determine Rod Height: Place the rod about halfway between the top of the arch and the ceiling. This designer trick draws the eye upward.
2. Mark Your Line: Use a level to mark a perfectly straight line for your brackets.
3. Set Rod Width: Extend the rod 6-10 inches past the window frame on each side. This allows the curtains to "stack back" off the glass, maximizing light.
4. Install Brackets: Mark where your brackets will go. Try to find wall studs for a solid hold, drill pilot holes, and mount the brackets securely.

Step 2: Fitting a Flexible Track Inside the Curve

A flexible track is fantastic for a look that hugs the window's unique shape. This method is best for lighter, decorative panels that will remain stationary.

1. Shape the Track: Carefully uncoil the track and gently bend it to match your window's curve. A second person makes this much easier. Work slowly to avoid kinks.
2. Mark Clip Locations: Hold the track inside the window frame and mark where to place the mounting clips, spacing them every 10-12 inches.
3. Mount the Track: Drill small pilot holes, attach the clips, and snap the track into place.
4. Hang Curtains: Slide your curtain hooks into the track for a beautifully tailored finish.

Expert Tip: To prevent a flexible track from sagging, I always add a mounting clip near each end of the curve and one right at the peak. This provides extra stability and keeps your curtain line crisp.

Step 3: Arranging a Fixed Display with Medallions

For a classic, elegant feel, medallions are a great way to drape fabric without a traditional rod. This is a purely decorative style that adds softness while leaving the window's architecture unobstructed.

1. Plan Your Layout: Decide on the number of medallions (three or five are common choices). Hold your fabric up to the window to visualize the drape, then mark the spot for each medallion along the arch for symmetrical spacing.
2. Mount Medallions: Securely mount each medallion to the wall, using wall anchors if you can't hit a stud.
3. Drape the Fabric: Artfully drape and loop your curtain fabric over and around the medallions, playing with the folds until you've created the perfect swag. Check out the versatile curtain hardware selection at JoeyzShopping.com to find the perfect medallions.

Creative Ideas and Design Inspiration

https://www.youtube.com/embed/QTnaZmupG2A

Once you've nailed down the "how," it's time to have fun with the "what if." Your arched window is a statement piece waiting for its moment in the spotlight. Let's get creative.

Instead of hiding that beautiful curve, consider alternatives that celebrate its shape. Custom-fit interior shutters offer a crisp, clean look that highlights the arch while giving you fantastic light control. For a splash of color, a decorative stained glass film can turn direct sunlight into a vibrant, artistic display.

The Hybrid Approach

One of my favorite solutions is the hybrid method. It’s simple: leave the gorgeous arch exposed to let light pour in, while hanging functional curtains only on the lower, rectangular part of the window.

This approach gives you the best of both worlds:

• Architectural Spotlight: The curve of the arch remains an unobstructed focal point.
• Practical Privacy: You can still pull the lower curtains closed when you need privacy or want to block glare.
• Visual Balance: It creates a layered, intentional look that feels totally custom.

This is a perfect solution for living rooms where you want an open, airy feel but still need the option for privacy in the evenings. It respects the window's design while meeting practical needs.

Coordinating with Other Windows

How do you make a dramatic arched window feel connected to standard rectangular windows in the same room? The key is consistency.

Use the same fabric and hardware for all windows. By installing the same style of curtains everywhere but mounting the rod on the arched window significantly higher, you create grandeur while keeping the look cohesive. This simple trick ties the whole room together beautifully.

To see how your ideas line up with current home design trends, you can ensure your window treatments feel fresh and modern.

Arched windows are more common than you might think. In developed markets, it's estimated that 3–7% of single-family homes have at least one custom-shaped window. This means millions of us are looking for stylish, functional solutions, driving innovation in window treatments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Even with a solid plan, a few questions always pop up. Let's clear up some of the most common queries so you can move forward with confidence.

Can I use regular curtains on an arched window?

Yes, absolutely! In fact, it’s one of the most popular ways to do it. The simplest method is to install a standard straight curtain rod high above the arch. By doing this, you treat the window as one tall rectangle, which means you can use any off-the-shelf curtain panels you love. This approach gives you full coverage and functionality without needing expensive custom hardware.

What is the best way to hang curtains on an arch for privacy?

When privacy is your top priority, your best bet is mounting a straight rod high above the peak of the arch. This technique lets you use wide, full-length curtain panels that can be drawn completely shut, covering every inch of glass. To take privacy a step further, opt for blackout or heavily lined fabric. This not only blocks light but also provides an effective barrier from the outside world.

Are there any no-drill options for arched windows?

Unfortunately, reliable no-drill options for arched windows are extremely limited and generally not recommended for functional curtains. The weight of the fabric and the stress of daily use require a secure, drilled installation for safety. For a purely decorative effect with very lightweight sheers, you might use a series of small, clear adhesive hooks. However, for any treatment you plan to move, a securely drilled installation is essential for a safe and lasting result.

How much does it cost to put curtains on an arched window?

The cost can vary dramatically based on the route you take.

• DIY Budget-Friendly: Using a standard rod you install yourself with ready-made curtains might cost between $100 to $250.
• Fully Custom: A professionally bent rod with custom-sewn drapes can range from $500 to several thousand dollars, depending on the window's size and your fabric choice.

Dressing your arched windows adds immense value and personality to your home. At Joey'z Shopping, we believe beautiful design should be accessible to everyone. Explore our wide selection of curtains and hardware to find the perfect finishing touch.

Browse our collection of elegant curtains and hardware at JoeyzShopping.com