Three Tips for using Double Drapery Rods

The challenges of exposed hardware and deep enough returns are just a few of the things to consider when working with double drapery rods.

Check out today's tips to keep as you consider your many double drapery rod options!

Double Rod with Rings

There are many choices for double drapery hardware. This double rod bracket cups the rods and the drapery can be mounted using rings.

The projection from the wall of a double drapery rod requires that you account for the longer returns - you're standard 3.5-4.5" return won't cut it here, and each panel will need to be measured for the appropriate return if you don't want to see through the side of the drapes.

Make sure the distance between the first and second layer is substantial enough for the drapery panels to clear each other.

No one wants to open the drapes only to have the inner sheers follow along with the outer layer. If they are far enough apart, this will provide independent movement of the inner and outer drapery panels.

Combination Bracket

Many clients and designers don’t like the look of rings, and this can be solved at least in part by a combination bracket. While you will not completely eliminate the rings, this option will at least minimize how many are needed.

With a combination bracket, you will have the inner sheer on a decorative traversing rod and the outer drapery on rings.

Something to keep in mind when using a combination bracket is that you will be limited to just three brackets if you are using closed rings, so this is best used in shorter expansions.

An alternative solution could be to utilize a c-ring for larger expanses so that the rings are able to clear the brackets when in use.

Double Traversing Wall Bracket

These are great for having two layers of traversing drapery panels. The top of the rod hooks on to the bottom of these brackets.

Typically, you will mount the sheer panel on the back for light filtration, and the outer drapes will be the blackout layer.

This double bracket system is great for bedrooms, or any other room where you want light blocking capabilities.

While not a true "Vegas blackout" option, this does offer really good coverage.

The Old School Way of Layering Drapery Panels

Layered drapery panels for the talented Holley Pokora Interior Design

And before there were so many double drapery rods systems, we made our own! We still use this system for layering drapery panels in projects today.

This project features a sheer panel in the back, and stationary drapery panels in the front mounted on a decorative resin rod.

The sheer panel is mounted on a non-decorative track in the back, so care is taken to make sure it isn't visible.

Don't get overwhelmed by all the double drapery rod hardware options available! Your window treatment specialist should be well-versed in all the available systems and can recommend the appropriate double hardware for your needs and window situations.