How to Dress Palladian Windows

Measure the entire window grouping's width. Purchase a decorative rod that is 8 to 12 inches wider than the window grouping. Curtains look best when they span just beyond the window casing, according to ''Complete Home Decorating.'' If brackets are not included with the rod, purchase brackets that match or complement it.

Mark the space for the first bracket. The brackets should be mounted to the wall just above the head casing and four to six inches outside the side casings. Drill a hole for the screws supplied with the brackets. Screw the first bracket to the wall. Use a carpenter's level to find the spot for the second bracket and mount it to the wall. The brackets should be placed to allow the curtain rod to run parallel to the top window casing. If the window is very wide, an additional support bracket may be needed at the rod's center point.

Determine curtain length required by measuring the window height from the floor to the point where the rod will be mounted. If you want the curtains to puddle on the floor, add several inches to the width.

Attach four curtain or drapery panels to the decorative rod by sliding the rod into the rod pockets or by using clip rings that fit over the rod. Gently gather the panels so they fall at either side of the window grouping and between each window.