Oh Wow, Thanks Jan, That is exactly what I was looking for. I hate the little skinny poles and that's all I was finding. Also the rod you pointed me toward is much longer which is better to hold it tight than only an inch or two beyond what is needed. I will certainly order the black one you showed me. I agree the black would look the best. Oh, I'm also in WI and bored with the snow now. Donna

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).

Wood closet dowling. I think it might come in a 2"diameter, and up to 10'-12' in length. It's sold by the foot at Home Depot or Lowe's. I've used it several times for heavier draperies which were lined ans quite wide, and it worked like a charm. It's much cheaper than an extra large store bought rod. You will also need to buy brackets for the ends as well as one in the middle. I use wood ones which are sold in the drapery hardware department. You can also paint or stain your rods/brackets, moreso the brackets since they will show.

HI, I know i am late commenting on this one, but we are spreading the word about a new bay curtain pole that doesn't have brackets at the corner so you can have eyelet curtains which i think would be perfect for what you are looking for. The pole can hold utp 30kg and is amazing. Your eyelet curtain poles can go around the corners without being obstructed by brackets, this means that you can have a pair of curtains working around the window and then drawing back out of the way. This pole is only suitable for 3 sided bay window. Eyelet Bay Curtain Pole You can purchase the eyelet bay curtain pole below. Please see the video below and the image