How to Hang Curtains Over Vertical Blinds?

What You’ll Need Before You Start

Tools and Materials Checklist

For Drilled Installations:

• Curtain rod (1 to 1.5-inch diameter)

• Mounting brackets

• Screws and wall anchors

• Measuring tape and pencil

• Drill and bits

• Level

• Screwdriver

• Curtain rings or hooks

For No-Drill Installations:

• NoNo brackets (clamp onto existing blind headrail)

• Kwik-Hang brackets (tap into trim, no screws needed)

• Tension rods (expand inside window frame)

• Magnetic rods or adhesive hooks (best for light curtains)

Always choose hardware based on your curtain weight, wall type, and whether you’re renting or owning.

Choosing the Right Curtain Rod

Pick a sturdy rod at least 1 to 1.5 inches thick to prevent sagging. If your curtains are heavy, add a center support bracket. 

Make sure the rod allows 3 to 4 inches of clearance from the wall so your curtains can hang freely without catching on the blinds.

How to Measure Correctly (Step 1)

Accurate measurements make all the difference between a polished, designer look and something that just feels off.

1. Measure Height:
   Start about 4 to 6 inches above the top of your vertical blinds. This gives your windows more height and ensures the rod sits high enough for the curtains to clear the headrail.

2. Measure Width:
   Extend your rod 8 to 12 inches beyond each side of the window. This allows the curtains to frame the window beautifully and prevents blocking light when opened.

3. Measure Length:
   Decide whether you want floor-length for drama, sill-length for practicality, or a puddled look for added luxury.
   Design Tip:
   Mounting rods higher and wider always makes windows look larger and ceilings taller – it’s a small change that has a big visual impact.

Main Methods to Hang Curtains Over Vertical Blinds

There are a few ways to get the job done depending on your setup and whether drilling is an option. 

Here are the most effective methods:

1. Using Valance Clips or Drapery Hooks (No Drill)

How It Works: 

Remove the vertical blind slats and use drapery hooks to attach curtains directly to the clips where slats once hung.

Pros:

• No drilling or new hardware needed.

• Keeps the sliding function of blinds.

• Perfect for renters.

Cons:

• Only works with certain clip-style blinds.

• Supports light-to-medium-weight curtains only.

Steps:

1. Remove blind slats carefully and keep them for future use.

2. Attach drapery hooks to the back of your curtains.

3. Insert the hooks into the existing blind clips.

4. Slide open and closed just like blinds.

This creates a seamless, fabric-based version of your blinds – soft, elegant, and reversible when you move out.

2. Usin a Tension Rod (No Drill)

How It Works: 

A spring-loaded rod fits snugly inside the window frame, positioned just above the blinds.

Pros:

• No drilling or damage.

• Easy, quick setup.

• Works well for sheer or light curtains.

Cons:

• Not suitable for heavy drapes.

• May lose grip on slick or shallow frames.

Steps:

1. Measure the width inside the window frame.

2. Adjust the tension rod to fit tightly.

3. Thread curtains onto the rod and place it above the blinds.

4. Test for sturdiness.

If your curtains are lightweight, this method takes minutes and avoids any wall damage.

3. Installing a Separate Rod Above the Blinds (Drilled)

How It Works: 

Mount a separate rod several inches above the blinds for full support and flexibility.

Pros:

• Supports heavier fabrics.

• Looks professional and permanent.

• Allows complete coverage or full exposure when opened.

Cons:

• Requires drilling and anchors.

• Slightly more labor-intensive.

Steps:

1. Measure and mark 4–6 inches above the blind headrail.

2. Extend marks 8–12 inches beyond the window on each side.

3. Use a level to align brackets.

4. Drill and secure brackets firmly into studs or wall anchors.

5. Mount the rod and hang curtains.

Pro tip: If your walls are thin or you’re worried about stability, consider ceiling-mounting the rod instead. It adds drama and frees up wall space.

Step-by-Step Guide: Hanging Curtains Over Vertical Blinds

1. Measure and Mark Placement: Use a pencil and level to mark where your brackets or no-drill system will sit.

2. Install Brackets or Hardware: Follow manufacturer instructions carefully. For tension or NoNo brackets, test placement before hanging.

3. Mount the Rod: Slide it through curtain rings or pockets, then secure it on brackets.

4. Hang Curtains: Space panels evenly and double-check that they open freely.

5. Adjust and Style: Smooth folds, balance the panels, and test both curtains and blinds together to ensure nothing snags.

Your curtains should hang freely without tugging on the blinds, and both should move independently.

Common Mistakes to Avoid (& How to Fix Them)

1. Mounting the Rod Too Low

If your rod sits just above the headrail, the window can look short and cramped. Instead, mount it 4 to 6 inches higher for a taller, more elegant appearance.

2. Choosing a Rod That’s Too Narrow

Curtains need space to breathe. Extend your rod 8 to 12 inches beyond the blinds so the fabric can hang naturally.

 3. Hanging Curtains That Are Too Narrow or Too Light

Panels should be 1.5 to 2 times the width of your window for fullness. Heavier fabrics hang better than paper-thin sheers.

4. Ignoring Clearance Between Blinds and Curtains

Leave 3–4 inches of clearance so blinds operate smoothly without rubbing against the curtains.

5. Attaching Curtains to the Blind Headrail

This can damage the blinds over time. Always use separate supports for the curtain rod.

6. Uneven Mounting

Use a level before drilling – even a small tilt will make curtains hang crookedly.

Fixing Common Problems After Installation

Rod Sagging or Pulling on Blinds

• Add a center support bracket for long rods.

• Upgrade to a thicker or reinforced rod.

• Tighten loose screws or anchors.

• Never hang curtains directly on blind components.

Uneven or Bunched Curtains

• Space curtain hooks or rings evenly.

• Adjust hem length to avoid pooling or uneven folds.

• Smooth fabric manually or add small curtain weights for stability.

Design Tips for a Polished Look

Once the practical work is done, you can focus on style:

• Layering: Try pairing sheer panels with heavier drapes for depth and flexibility.

• Color & Texture: Match curtains to furniture tones or go bold with contrast.

• Decorative Rods: Choose finials that echo your room’s personality – coastal, modern, or classic.

• Smart Options: For ultimate convenience, opt for motorized systems compatible with Alexa or Google Home.

• Florida Tip: Pick UV-resistant and fade-proof fabrics to keep your colors vibrant under strong sunlight.