How to Install Curtains Inside a Window Frame

Are you tired of boring windows? Installing curtains inside a window frame can give your home a clean, neat look. This setup also helps showcase pretty window frames while letting more light into your room.

I know how tricky it can be to get this right. Picking the wrong size or using poor tools can lead to frustration and wasted time.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the full process of hanging curtains inside your window frame. You’ll learn to measure correctly, pick the right curtains, and install them without damage.

I’ll even share some tips for renters who can’t drill holes. By the end, you’ll have all the know-how to make your windows look their best.

Installing Inside-Mount Curtains in 5 Simple Steps

Inside-mount curtains give your windows a tidy, finished look. They fit neatly within the frame, showing off nice moldings and making spaces feel bigger. Here’s how to install them properly.

Step 1: Measure Your Window Frame

Getting the right measurements is key to a good fit. Take your metal tape measure and check the width inside your window frame. Measure the top, middle, and bottom of the opening. Write down the smallest number you get, ensuring your curtains fit.

Next, check the height from the top of the frame down to the sill. Measure in three spots: the left side, the center, and the right side. Again, note the smallest number to avoid any fitting issues.

Don’t forget to measure the depth of your window frame. This tells you how much space you have for mounting hardware. Most brackets need at least 2 inches of depth to work well.

For windows that aren’t perfectly square, think about using tension rods. They offer more wiggle room and can adjust to slight frame differences.

Step 2: Choose the Right Curtain Type

The curtains you choose will affect both their appearance and function. Sheer curtains let soft light filter through, creating a breezy feel. They work well in living rooms and dining areas where privacy is desired without blocking the sunshine.

Blackout curtains prevent light from entering and help maintain room temperature. They’re perfect for bedrooms, nurseries, or home theaters, and many people sleep better with them in their rooms.

Decorative curtains focus mainly on style. They come in many patterns and textures to match your decor. If you need more light control, you can pair them with blinds.

For the most options, try using sheer and blackout curtains together. This allows you to change the light levels based on the time of day or your mood.

Step 3: Select a Suitable Mounting Option

How you hang your curtains depends on your needs and situation. Tension rods need no tools or drilling. They work by pressing against the inside of the frame, making them perfect for renters. These rods work best with lighter fabrics since heavy ones might make them sag.

Bracket and rod systems offer more stability. They need drilling but can hold heavier curtains without problems. This option looks more finished and lasts longer in most cases.

Suction cups are another no-drill choice for smooth surfaces. They stick to glass or glossy frames and can be removed without leaving marks, making them suitable for short-term use or changing looks often.

If unsure what will work best, start with a tension rod. If necessary, you can switch to a more fixed option later.

Step 4: Install the Curtain Rod or Track

Setting up a tension rod is simple. Extend it until it’s slightly longer than your window width. Place it inside the frame and release it to create tension. Before hanging curtains, check that it sits level and feels secure.

For bracket systems, mark where screws will go with a pencil. Drill holes and insert wall anchors if needed for better support. Then, attach the brackets firmly before sliding in your rod.

Clean the window frame and the cups with suction cups with alcohol. Let them dry completely, then press firmly to create a strong seal. Attach your rod to the hooks and test the hold before adding curtains.

Always use a level during installation. Crooked curtain rods stand out and can cause uneven draping.

Step 5: Hang and Adjust the Curtains

Once your rod is in place, thread the curtains onto it. Space the fabric evenly across the rod for a balanced look. If your curtains are too long, you might need to hem them. For inside mounts, curtains should hang just to the window sill.

Check that your curtains open and close without catching. The fabric should move freely along the rod without bunching up or getting stuck. Make small adjustments to the rod position if needed.

Take time to smooth out any wrinkles. Steaming or ironing curtains before hanging them makes a big difference in the final look. This step helps them hang more neatly and look more finished.

Understanding Inside-Mount vs. Outside-Mount Curtains

When picking curtains, you first need to decide where to hang them. Two main hanging methods create very different looks for your windows.

Feature	Inside-Mount	Outside-Mount
Look	Sleek and modern, it fits inside the frame.	Bold, dramatic, extends beyond the frame.
Best For	Small spaces, showing window trim.	Making windows look bigger, full coverage.
Light Control	Soft glow, some light leaks.	Blocks more light, great for bedrooms.
Privacy	Moderate gaps at edges.	Maximum privacy, no gaps.
Insulation	Minimal, allows airflow.	Better insulation, energy-efficient

Choosing the Best Curtains for an Inside Mount

The right curtain style can greatly affect your room’s looks and feels. Each type serves different needs while working within the frame.

1. Sheer Curtains: Soft and Light

Sheer curtains filter sunlight without completely blocking it. Made from thin, semi-see-through fabrics like voile or light cotton, they create a soft glow in the room.

These curtains work well in living rooms and dining areas where you want privacy and light. They come in many colors, though white and off-white remain popular for their clean look.

When windows are open, sheers move easily with breezes, adding a gentle, flowing element to the room’s feel. They’re also great in layers with heavier curtains for a more complex window treatment.

2. Blackout Curtains: Total Light Control

Blackout curtains block nearly all light from entering your windows. They use thick fabrics or special linings to block light rays.

These curtains help people who need dark rooms for sleeping, especially shift workers or those with young children. They also add insulation, keeping rooms cooler in summer and warmer in winter.

For inside mounting, look for blackout curtains sized precisely to your window. Many come with brushes or seals along the edges to stop light from leaking around the sides.

3. Roman Shades: Smart and Structured

Roman shades offer a neat, tidy look that works perfectly for inside mounting. These fabric window covers fold in even pleats when raised and lie flat when lowered.

They take up very little depth in your window frame, making them ideal for shallow windows. They stack at the top when raised, leaving most windows clear for light and views.

Roman shades come in countless fabrics, from light-filtering to complete blackout. Their structured look suits modern and classic room styles, making them a flexible choice for any home.

Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

Mistake	Problem	How to Avoid It
Wrong Curtain Size	Buying curtains before measuring leads to incorrect fit (too wide, too narrow, or wrong length).	Always measure first, then shop. Inside-mount curtains should be slightly narrower than the window opening for smooth hanging. Adjust the length to end at or above the sill for a clean look. Consider custom curtains or hemming for a perfect fit.
Incorrect Rod Placement	Placing the rod too deep in the frame can cause curtains to rub against glass or window hardware, making them hard to open/close.	Keep the rod at least an inch away from the glass and window locks/cranks—test movement before final installation. If the window frame is too shallow, opt for outside-mount curtains or use low-profile brackets.
Weak Hanging Solutions	Lightweight tension rods, adhesive hooks, or suction cups may not support heavier curtains, causing rods to fall.	Check the weight rating before purchasing. Standard tension rods hold 5-10 lbs, while stronger ones support up to 20 lbs. Use heavy-duty suction cups or install proper brackets for heavier curtains like blackouts. Small holes from brackets are easy to patch later.

Conclusion

Now you know how to hang curtains inside window frames. This method gives your home a clean, professional look and lets you showcase your beautiful window trims.

Remember to start with careful measurements before buying any supplies. Choose curtains that match your style needs and practical concerns like light control.

Then select the mounting option that works for your skills and living situation.

Proper installation makes all the difference, whether using tension rods as a renter or installing brackets for a more permanent solution.

Ready to start your project? Take your measurements today and transform your windows this weekend. Your rooms will look more cohesive, and you’ll enjoy the added privacy and style boost.