There are many different types of drapery hardware to choose from. Not unlike choosing drapes it is important to choose drapery hardware that complements your drapes and hardware that suits the location of the curtain. There is a collection of straight drapery rods for regular windows. There is also special hardware for specially styled windows. For example, if you have two windows located close together in the corner of a room, choose corner drapery hardware. This hardware allows you to hang only one curtain rod to support your two sets of drapes for the room corner window treatment. There is also special drapery hardware for bow shaped windows, for bay windows and for arch windows.
Drapery hardware is not only used to hang drapes but can find other uses around the home. Ceiling mount drapery hardware can be used to make a canopy for your bed. This special hardware is mounted from the ceiling above and around the bed. This creates an exotic and romantic canopy; a makeover for a simple bed. Decorative drapery hardware mounted on a wall can also be used to display quilts or ornamental wall hangings.
There are many makers of drapery hardware; Kirsch, Empress, and Kaleidoscope to name a few. Kirsch is one of the best known drapery makers. There are many different types of Kirsch drapery hardware accessories. Kirsch makes traverse rods, standard rod, wire rods, sconces, brackets and many other hardware pieces that will help complete your window treatment.
Besides Kirsch's Hardware Collection, another popular drapery hardware manufacturer is Kaleidoscope Drapery and Hardware's; Empire collection. This collection features decorative solid brass drapery poles and rods for an elegant look. When shopping for curtain rods and drapery hardware do your homework and choose a brand that has a proven reliability.
Now that you have sifted through the different styles and types of drapery hardware, it is time to start measuring your window. Measuring for a straight window drapery rod is simple requiring that you only do a couple of measurements. First measure the width of the window, this will be the approximate width of the drapery rod. Make sure you measure a straight line that is parallel with the floor and not the window. The next measurement will take into account the overhang of the window sill. This measurement is used to determine how far your drapes will project from the window. If you opt to use finials make sure you have enough room for the rod and finials to fit on the wall. Measuring for other styles of windows requires special measuring techniques, check with the drapery rod manufacturer for that particular information. When installing your drapery hardware make sure you follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.