How to Dress Up Sliding Doors With Curtains

Choose between curtains that open from the middle or curtains that draw to one side. A side draw makes it easier to use the door, while curtains that open from the middle give a balanced look. Decide whether you want to pull your curtains by hand or use a draw traverse rod. Traverse rods are available for both center and side opening.

Measure for the curtains. Measure the width of the sliding door, and add at least 6 inches to the width. Add more if you want the curtains to completely clear the door. Standard sliding door curtains are normally 84 inches or more in length. Choose whether you want your curtains hung at 84 inches from the floor or nearer the ceiling for a dramatic look, and measure accordingly. Curtains come in lengths up to 120 inches.

Select light or heavy curtains in a style, color and material to suit your needs. For example, white or off-white curtains in a semi-sheer fabric allow most of the light to enter. Heavier or lined curtains insulate, block the sun and darken your room for privacy. Select a color that coordinates or contrasts with rugs, upholstery or accents in your room. A color similar to your walls and carpet, for example, will make the curtains almost disappear. A bright color or print will make the sliding door stand out. Also match the formality of your curtain fabric to your room, using silk curtains in a formal room, for example.

Get curtains in the length you have chosen and wide enough to cover your windows from one and one-half to three times. Insufficient fullness gives a skimpy look, while extra fullness adds a look of luxury. If you can't find curtains wide enough, purchase multiple panels until you have the correct width.

Get curtain rods or draw rods and brackets in the type and style that suit your room. Buy heavy rods for heavier curtains. Choose among light or dark colors in a variety of metal or wood-look finishes to coordinate with your walls and curtains. The end pieces, called finials, also come in different styles and colors.

Install your curtain brackets at the correct height and width for your curtains. Measure before you install to get the look you want.

Hang your curtains on the rods. For curtains gathered on the rod, insert the rod into the curtain heading before hanging the rod. For traverse rods, install the rods, then hang the curtains using curtain hooks.