Video: How to Hang & Dress Curtains

Watch our quick guide, then follow the written steps below.

Tools & Materials You’ll Need

• Curtain pole or track, securely fitted (browse poles & tracks)
• Pinch pleat or pencil pleat curtains (shop curtains)
• Header hooks (one per pleat)
• Rings or gliders to match your pole/track
• Measuring tape and a pencil
• Step ladder
• Protective surface for laying curtains

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1) Hang Your Curtains (Hooking into Track or Pole)

   Starting at one end, insert each curtain hook into a ring or glider. Ensure every pleat is hooked so the fabric is fully supported. If your curtain is made from multiple widths, place the narrower width at the outer edge so any seams are hidden in pleats.

2. 2) Prepare a Clean Workspace

   Before hanging, lay your curtains flat on a clean surface with the back of the header tape facing up. This makes it easy to insert hooks at a consistent height.

3. 3) Insert the Hooks

   Insert each hook deep into the pleat, as close to the top edge as possible. Measure from the top to ensure each hook is at the same height. This keeps the curtain level once hung.

   Pro tip: Curtains often settle slightly over a few days. Position hooks a few millimetres lower to allow for natural drop.

4. 4) Dress the Curtains

   With the curtains hung, draw them closed. Starting at one side, arrange the pleats neatly by hand, pushing fabric into the folds so each pleat sits evenly.

   Once shaped, loosely tie three soft fabric strips around each curtain (top, middle, bottom). Leave for 2–3 days so the pleats set into place. Remove ties and enjoy the finished look.

5. 5) Set the Pleats Long-Term

   After a few days, the folds will fall naturally. For stubborn creases, gently steam the fabric (check care instructions first). Always make sure pleats are stacked neatly to one side when curtains are open — this helps maintain their shape.

Different Fabrics, Same Process

The hanging and dressing process is the same whether you’re using blackout curtains or heavy acoustic curtains:

• Blackout curtains are stiffer and block light fully, helping creases drop out quickly.
• Acoustic curtains are heavier (often 500g/m²+), so ensure your track is strong enough to support them.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping pleats when adding hooks — causes sagging
• Placing hooks at uneven heights — makes curtains hang crooked
• Hiding the pole or track with the header — prevents a clean drape
• Not hiding seams in pleats — seams should be tucked inside folds to stay invisible