Care must be taken when handling authentic vintage curtains.  After all, you have gone out of your way to find the real deal and not reproduction.  In some cases these fabrics are almost one hundred years old or more.

Because the method for manufacturing window treatments has changed over the years, these items can be a challenge to hang.  The hardware that is readily available for modern curtains and drapes may not fit your vintage curtains.

Another issue to consider when hanging vintage curtains is the actual window they will cover.  Thanks to the improvements in window manufacturing, todays homes have a multitude of window shapes and sizes.  If you choose to decorate with vintage items make sure they will cover the intended window.

Older homes can present a different set of challenges when it comes to hanging curtains.  It is common for the windows in older homes to go out of square.  In addition, the floors may not be level.  Take this into consideration when deciding if you want floor length drapes, and which type of window mounts to use.

Inside Mount vs. Outside Mount

There are benefits to both types of mounting styles.  In some cases you may even want to use both styles on a single window.  For example, you may choose to hand sheers with an inside mount rod, and then cover the window with curtains hung on an outside mounted rod.  Many older homes (as well as new homes) have beautiful window moulding.  If this is the case for your home, and the window is not terribly out of square, then an inside mount may be your best choice.  There are some drawbacks to this method, which are overcome with the outside mount style.

An outside mount curtain rod allows the drapes or curtains to completely cover the window.  This fools the eye into thinking the window is bigger than it actually is. You can take this a step further and add even more inches to the outside dimensions to make the overall look seem fuller or grander.  If light coming through the window is an issue, an outside mount is the answer.  It blocks light out better than inside mounted curtains.  This type is obviously more popular with bedroom window treatments.

Curtain Rod Choices

The curtain rod type is an important consideration when decorating with vintage curtains.  Make sure the hardware you use will accommodate the pocket size of the curtains.  Another consideration is the style of rod.  If you are going retro with your window treatments, don’t use an ultra-modern rod; it will look out of place.  In addition, many classic styles will need a traverse rod.  If the panels you want to hang are pleated or pinch pleated, there is a good chance you will need this type of rod.

Don’t be intimidated by the old styles.  The overall design look you will achieve when using vintage curtains will be worth the effort.