An oval window above a front door can make for a striking architectural detail, letting light flood into an entryway while creating visual interest. But dressing these uniquely shaped windows with properly fitted curtains can be tricky. Oval windows require a custom approach to ensure your curtains complement both the shape of the window and the surrounding space. The good news is there are simple solutions for hanging and styling oval door curtains, no matter your decor style or skill level.
In this post, we’ll explore effortless ideas for selecting, hanging, and decorating oval window curtains to craft an inviting entryway. With a few key steps, you can easily create beautiful bespoke oval door treatments to uplift your home’s entrance.
Getting Started with Oval Window Curtains
Before picking up rods or fabric, you’ll first want to assess the specifics of your oval window so you can choose suitable curtains. This planning will ensure your oval door curtains fit properly and function as needed.
Assessing Your Oval Window
First, carefully measure the height, width, and depth of your oval window opening. Note the placement in relation to surrounding walls, doors, or other architectural details. This will allow you to calculate the ideal curtain dimensions and visual balance.
Consider if you’d like the curtains to cover the entire window opening, or hang above or below the oval frame. How much light do you want to filter in through the fabric? Sheer curtains will allow light to permeate, while blackout drapes block exterior light.
Mark down any additional considerations like ample doorway clearance or existing hardware limitations so your oval window treatments complement the full entryway.
Selecting the Best Curtain Style
With measurements in hand, it’s time to explore oval curtain styles suited to your space. Key choices include:
- Rodded curtains or rodless styles with magnets or Velcro
- Waterfall panels that puddle attractively on the floor
- Cafe curtains covering the lower half of the window
- Soft ruffled or elegant gathered looks
The right fabric can elevate your oval window curtains. Lightfiltering sheers, cozy linen, rich velvet, or vivid patterns all evoke different aesthetics. Cool hues help small spaces recede, while warm tones make a welcoming first impression.
Choosing Rods and Hardware
Oval door curtains need specially adapted rods and hardware that conform to the curved window shape. Flexible bendable curtain rods that can be adjusted to fit the exact oval dimensions are ideal.
Measure across the top of your window to determine the minimum rod length needed. Add at least an extra 8-12 inches on each side for a secure mounting. Oval brackets allow rods to cleanly meet the wall at right angles.
If your oval window is surrounded by trim, consider mounting brackets on the trim face rather than above it. Clips that tightly grip the fabric panel edges are essential for a crisp gathered oval shape.
Hanging Your Oval Curtains
Once you’ve selected suitable oval window curtains, it’s time to expertly hang them to maximize visual appeal. We’ll review tricks for both rectangular panels and custom oval-shaped curtains.
Working with Rectangular Panels
For simple rectangular curtains, carefully bend and adjust the flexible rod to align with the oval frame. Clips spaced 3-5 inches apart neatly grip the straight panel edges. Gather and fold any excess fabric attractively at the oval center point.
To discourage drooping side edges, sew weights into the bottom hem. For a smooth professional appearance, ensure diagonal folds meet precisely at the oval’s narrowest points.
Going Custom with Oval Hemlines
For a truly bespoke look, customize panels to match the window’s shape. To calculate dimensions, trace the oval opening onto paper. Mark the widest points, and measure the distance between them. Add double the rod pocket depth to determine ideal finished width. For most windows, finished length should equate the window height.
Cut the fabric panel to size. Turn under the raw edges twice, pressing with an iron between turns. Topstitch around the panel to create a rod pocket. Gather and pleat the upper oval edge neatly to slide onto the curtain rod.
Rod Installation How-To
Once your oval window curtains are constructed, it’s time to mount the hardware. Mark the bracket locations first with a pencil, equally spacing them 8-10 inches from each end. Follow manufacturer’s instructions to securely screw brackets into place.
Carefully flex the rod to match the oval shape and insert both ends into the end brackets simultaneously. The adjustable center support helps the rod retain its custom curved shape between brackets. Clip your curtain panels attractively onto the curved rod.
Finishing Touches for Oval Window Curtains
Final decorative touches elevate the look of your oval door curtains and unify them with the surrounding space. Tailor and tweak your window treatments to perfection.
Ruffles, Trims and Embellishments
Soften the visual lines of your oval window and play with proportion by adding ruffled accents. Gathering tape helps create flouncy curtain edges and valances. Crystal clear sequins sewn onto drapery swags and tiebacks add a touch of glamour.
Any embellishments should fall approximately one third to halfway down the total window length. Ensure their depth provides pleasing visual weight without overwhelming the window itself.
Perfecting the Drape
Once hung, gently adjust the folds and gathers of your oval curtains to artfully drape over the window curve. Avoid rigid harsh horizontal creases. Soft asymmetrical drapery and dynamic cascading vertical folds keep the look elegant and organic.
Check curtain clip placement as well. Space clips closer together near the top, gradually increasing the distance between clips moving downward. This encourages beautiful draping instead of stiff panels.
Window Treatments and Accessories
Frame your oval window curtains with coordinating swags, jabots, or cascading valances. Tie back drapes with tasseled holdbacks in a fabric that complements the curtains. Exchange valances and swags seasonally for variety and visual interest.
Layer panels in graduating lengths across the windowscape to build intrigue. Sheer inner layers provide privacy and light filtration while defining the oval shape. Outer layers can incorporate trim, tassels, and varied textures.
Achieving an Inviting Entryway
Your entryway should immediately welcome guests and reflect your design sensibilities. Oval window curtains present the perfect opportunity to craft a stylish first impression.
Decorating a Cohesive Entry Space
Tie together your front door, walls, flooring, and new oval window treatment for holistic harmony. Paint the front door in the dominant hue of your drapes or valance. Hang coordinating artwork flanking the window. Area rugs can incorporate curtain colors and patterns.
Use lighting to spotlight and draw attention to the oval focal point. Sconces illuminating the window softly from above and statement pendants hanging nearby make a striking statement.
Styling Your Oval Window Curtains
Showcase your new bespoke oval curtains with optimal folding, draping and layers. Tie back drapes to both sides if space allows to keep the window unobstructed. For waterfall panels, neatly fold and bind excess fabric.”S” fold side hems attractively to play with light and shadow.
Incorporate varied textures with limitations, woven woods, and layered panels. Reflect your personal style – try a bold graphic valance in a minimalist home or lace jabots for romantic flair. Thoughtfully style your custom oval window treatments to craft an entryway that’s warm, elegant and uniquely you.
With the right combination of planning, quality curtains, and decorative accents, oval door windows can easily be dressed to impress. Following our straightforward tips, you can confidently tackle hanging and styling oval window curtains to create a welcoming entry focal point.
Experiment with different looks – from breezy sheers to opulent drapery – to make your entryway reflect your interior design tastes. A custom bendable curtain rod kit and clips that hug the oval shape make even novice DIYers look like pros. And final embellishments like ruffles, cascading swags, and warm lighting transform the space.
Oval window curtains present the perfect chance to add visual interest, display your personal style, and wow guests in the entry room. Simple yet clever solutions tailored to the unique shape help even unusual architectural details feel inviting. With this quick but comprehensive guide, you can easily unlock the full potential of your oval door window!
