Cut Out Corner Curtain Drama With A Bracket That Makes Them Much More Functional

Finding curtain solutions for corner windows can be tricky because standard curtain rods don't accommodate 90-degree angles. This generally means that curtains will partially block some of the scenery and light coming in through the windows, even when they are fully open. And what would be the purpose of a large corner window if not to let in as much daylight and scenic views as you can? Not only does a standard curtain-and-rod setup partially block corner windows, but the bunched-up curtains and abrupt appearance of two rods meeting in a corner can create a chaotic look in a room. Fortunately, there is a way to have curtains for your corner windows without all the drama. This solution involves installing a Vidga corner curtain track set from Ikea. The corner curtain track allows you to slide curtain panels in any direction, including completely away from the room's corner, letting in all the light and beauty. For this trick, you need two Vidga curtain tracks, one Vidga corner piece, some Vidga gliders and hooks, and a screwdriver.

This aesthetically pleasing and curtain styling hack is from Ikea, but similar options are available elsewhere. Although this curtain track is designed specifically for Ikea curtains, it can be modified for curtains from other retailers. You can even hang layers of curtains (think sheer and opaque or decorative) with this system. This track is so functional and easy to install that you might be inspired to use it elsewhere throughout your home as well.

Before installing your corner curtain track, measure your windows. If you are covering a small window, measure 3 to 6 inches past the window on the wall sides. If you need to hang a long rod, measure 6 to 12 inches past the window. This ensures there is enough room on the rod for them to clear the window completely when you want. Decide whether you want to mount the Vidga system to the ceiling or the wall, and you're ready to start. Begin by connecting your two window tracks to the corner piece and installing the system according to the instructions, using a screwdriver to secure the brackets to your ceiling or wall. This project is easier with two people, but if you don't have anyone helping, install the brackets as you assemble the pieces, rather than constructing the unit ahead of time, to make it easier.

When your track system is installed, put up your curtains. If you are hanging non-Ikea curtains on your Vidga track, you will need to make a slight modification with additional hardware, like Ikea's Riktig curtain hook with clips or S-hooks. If you want multiple curtain layers, hang a second set of brackets and tracks to accommodate sheer curtains to go with your new window set. The Ikea curtain track system is only available in white, but it's always possible to spray paint the pieces before installation to better match your home's aesthetic.

This method of hanging curtains on the Vidga track works elsewhere in your home. It could help insulate your home as an easy-to-install door curtain solution. This would also help keep out unwanted light from your door's windows and provide privacy. You could also use it to hang curtain doors for a closet. If you have children who share a room and one likes to stay up and read, but the other is bothered by the light, this system will make everyone happy.

If you want functional corner curtains but don't like the look of a track, there are curtain rods with corner brackets available, such as the Rod Desyne from Home Depot. This works well for small corner windows. Large windows however, require a middle bracket to support a heavy curtain load. As a result, curtains would not slide all the way to the wall, as the middle bracket would block them. You could use C-hooks to help the curtains move over the bracket, but they may still end up getting caught on the middle bracket, making for clunky movement and frustration. A track system completely bypasses this issue.