skip to main content

Home Decorating

Double Return Curtain Rods - please help!

7 years ago

I have a question about return or wraparound curtain rods. I want to purchase return rods for my bedroom (not necessarily the ones pictured here) because I'm trying to achieve maximum darkness so I love the idea of getting my curtains as close to the wall as possible. However, the curtains I'm planning to purchase do not come with blackout lining, nor am I interested in sewing a blackout liner to them. So, my next best solution is to use a double rod and buy a separate blackout curtain. However, I'm confused about the effectiveness of this solution, since the blackout curtain would be on the inner rod, closest to the window. Does this defeat the purpose of using a return rod? The regular curtain on the outer rod, would not be able to "wrap" all the way to the window anyhow because of where the inner rod is attached. I hope my question makes sense. I guess what I'm wondering, is that since I'm using both a blackout curtain (closest to the window) and a regular curtain (facing into the room), does a regular double curtain rod do the same thing as this return/wraparound rod (while also giving me more design choices and finials to add to my decor).

Thanks so much in advance!

Featured Answer

blubird

7 years ago

Well.....if you are using a grommet top curtain as the outer wrap-around curtain, you would be able to have that curtain wrap to the wall. If you have a gathered top curtain you would have to cut a slit in it in order for the inner curtain rod to sit where it does. Of course, if you were planning to use rings to hang your curtains, they too could wrap to the wall.

Two problems, though. You would still be getting in more light from the wrapped sides because the blackout curtain won't be wrapped. And opening and closing these curtains on a daily basis is going to be a PITN.

the best solution for both daily opening and best blackout would be the old-fashioned traverse rod with some form of pleated drapery. (IMHO)

Sort by:Oldest

Comments (6)

Karin Leung
Original Author
7 years ago
Thanks for the input. It makes sense and I hadn't thought about the rings or grommets over the inner rod. Personally I prefer the tab top look which is why it didn't occur to me. The other solution I'm considering is perhaps using a single return rod for the blackout curtain. And THEN using a single regular curtain rod with finials just above or in front of the return rod, thus creating a layered effect which hopefully doesn't look ridiculous. I'm not as concerned about opening and closing on a daily basis because the window is not very wide - I can tieback the curtains daily without having to slide the curtains along the curtain rod. Any thoughts?
Related Discussions
online source for double curtain rod
Q
Comments (8)
I've recently gotten quotes for rods for my new house. Antique Drapery Rod Company has an excellent selection, fully functioning traverse rods, double decorative rods, an online consult to help you figure out all of what you need; and I know from experience in the business that their quality is top notch. But be prepared, so are their prices - top notch! Antique Drapery Rod The Finial Company is another one where you'll be able to get whatever you want, and it's high quality stuff. However their website is almost impossible to navigate and get what you want. You need a rep to help you decipher what elements you want, and it's equally as expensive. I'm assuming you want decorative rods so that you don't have to have a valance or a cornice board. If you're going to have a valance you can use a Kirsch Superfine rod, it's heavy enough to handle the length. There are lots of other companies out there, I'm just personally familiar with the above companies and know their quality, so feel fairly safe recommending them.
...See More
Advice for double wood curtain rods
Q
Comments (2)
Usually there is the main front rod and then the back rod has a hook on each end that lays over the bracket that is holding the main rod. I have seen them separate and I have seen what Kippy said.
...See More
In search of extremely low-profile double curtain rod
Q
Comments (6)
If you want to do sheers under a curtain and you don't need them to shut, you can string the curtains and the sheers on a single rod with the sheers in the middle...same look, lower profile. You can do the same with a valance that covers the middle of the rod with panels on either side. Another alternative would be to look into ceiling mount...perhaps the projection would be less of an issue if it's flush to the ceiling.
...See More
HELP! Debating between a single OR double traverse curtain rod
Q
Comments (3)
That would look amazing I thought of that but husband didn’t like the idea of one side of the wall with solar shades (he doesn’t want solar shades for the patio door :)
...See More
blubird
7 years ago
Two curtain rods will work, and now that you describe the window narrow enough to tie back the curtains it should be ok. I do have to mention that you will still get light leakage above the window. Would hanging a blackout shade close to the window, probably outside mount, and then your curtains on a rod work? The shade can be pulled up daily and be out of sight and you can keep your drapes tied back as a style. The shade would probably provide more blackout effect for you.
Karin Leung
Original Author
7 years ago
Oh I hadn't thought of that. That is definitely another good option! So why do you suggest an outside mount instead of inside mount? I guess one thing to mention is that the top of the window sill sits about 2-2.5' from the ceiling, and I would be hanging the curtains high. So when they get tied back during the day, you would see a bit of the wall above the window. Which I'm fine with. I suppose an outside mount could be more visually appealing because I could hang it high enough to hide the wall and give the illusion of taller windows. But, I just wonder if the shade contraption (I don't know much about shades) would protrude from the wall and interfere with the curtain (again, I suppose I could just ensure my curtain rod leaves enough clearance from the wall).
blubird
7 years ago
An outside mount shade, roller or cellular, would provide more coverage against light leakage. Neither project very much to interfere with most curtain rods.
Karin Leung
Original Author
7 years ago
Thanks so much for the information!!!

Related Stories

MOVING Relocating Help: 8 Tips for a Happier Long-Distance Move

By Laura Gaskill

Trash bags, houseplants and a good cry all have their role when it comes to this major life change

HOME OFFICES Quiet, Please! How to Cut Noise Pollution at Home

By Christine Ciarmello

Leaf blowers, trucks or noisy neighbors driving you berserk? These sound-reduction strategies can help you hush things up

BATHROOM MAKEOVERS Room of the Day: See the Bathroom That Helped a House Sell in a Day

By Annie Thornton

Sophisticated but sensitive bathroom upgrades help a century-old house move fast on the market

BATHROOM WORKBOOK Standard Fixture Dimensions and Measurements for a Primary Bath

By Steven Corley Randel, Architect

Create a luxe bathroom that functions well with these key measurements and layout tips

STANDARD MEASUREMENTS The Right Dimensions for Your Porch

By Steven Corley Randel, Architect

Depth, width, proportion and detailing all contribute to the comfort and functionality of this transitional space

SELLING YOUR HOUSE 10 Low-Cost Tweaks to Help Your Home Sell

By Lurdes Abruscato

Put these inexpensive but invaluable fixes on your to-do list before you put your home on the market

WINDOW TREATMENTS Learn the Lingo of Drapery Rods and Accessories

By The Inman Company

Understanding these drapery hardware options is essential to window treatments that hang properly and look polished

HISTORIC HOMES Frank Lloyd Wright's Prairie Triumph Returns

Sixteen years' worth of restoration and reconstruction efforts have brought the Martin House Complex in New York back to glory

SUMMER GARDENING Houzz Call: Please Show Us Your Summer Garden!

By Annie Thornton

Share pictures of your home and yard this summer — we’d love to feature them in an upcoming story

Yes, Please: Parisian Hotel Flair

By Love Your Room LLC

Bring on the Bling to Recreate the City of Romance at Home

Sponsored

More Discussions

Cottage Sunroom/ Gazebo redecorating

17

help, what should we do with our fireplace/tv wall?

10

Interior bedroom door ideas?

15

Island Upgrade Ideas

4

Please recommend good matching upholstered chairs for table

15