When choosing curtains for your home, it's easy to focus on the fabric, colour and style while overlooking the hardware that holds everything together. But curtain rods, finials and brackets can have just as much impact on the finished look of a window. Each has a specific purpose and can be selected to suit your window, curtains and interior style.
The curtain rod is the main horizontal piece that supports your curtains. It comes in different diameters, lengths and timber options, allowing you to choose a style that complements both your curtains and the surrounding space.
At Auburn Woodturning, our timber curtain rods are available in four diameters:
29mm
35mm
43mm
50mm
Lengths can also be customised to suit your requirements, with rods available up to 3000mm long.
When selecting a curtain rod, consider:
Curtain Weight: Consider the combined weight of your curtains and any linings. Heavier curtains and longer rods may require a larger diameter and additional support brackets to minimise sagging.
Diameter: Choose a size that complements the proportions of your window and the style of your curtains.
Length: The rod should extend beyond the window frame to allow curtains to open fully without blocking too much of the glass.
Timber: We offer Pine and Vic Ash, each providing a different natural timber appearance.
Finish: Our timber rods are supplied unfinished, allowing you to stain, paint or seal them to complement your interior.
Measuring for Curtain Rods
Accurate measurements are essential when selecting a curtain rod.
As a general guideline, add around 15 to 25 centimetres to the window width on each side when determining your curtain rod length. This allows the curtains to extend beyond the window frame when open, helping maximise natural light and creating a fuller, more elegant appearance.
Remember to account for the additional length taken up by the bracket and finials, and any other obstacles, such as window frames, architraves or nearby walls when determining the overall width of your curtain setup.
Brackets are the supports that hold your curtain rod in place. They are typically installed above or beside the window frame and are available in different designs to suit various curtain rod sizes and installation requirements.
The number of brackets required will depend on the length of the rod and the weight of the curtains. Longer rods or heavier curtains may require additional support to prevent sagging.
Bracket Placement
Once you have your window width and height measurements, you can determine where to position your brackets. For standard curtain rod installations, place the brackets approximately 10 to 15 centimetres from each side of the window frame. Make sure both brackets are level to keep the rod straight and properly supported.
Before installation, also check that the brackets are compatible with your chosen rod diameter and allow enough clearance for your curtains to hang freely.
Curtain Rod Finials
Finials are the decorative pieces fitted to either end of a curtain rod. While they help finish and complete the rod, they also provide an opportunity to introduce a little personality into your interior.
Available in a variety of shapes and designs, finials can make a subtle statement or become a decorative feature in their own right.
When choosing finials, consider the overall style of your room. Simple, understated designs work well in contemporary spaces, while more detailed shapes can complement traditional or classic interiors.
For a coordinated look, choose finials that complement your curtain rod in both material and finish.
