How to Hang Curtain Lights for Any Occasion

Curtain lights – also called fairy lights – add an ethereal, dreamlike quality to any space. Whether you use them as everyday decor or for a special occasion, hanging string lights over tulle or sheer curtains makes an unforgettable impression.

In this blog, we’ll show you how to hang up curtain lights for any occasion.

How to Make a DIY Curtain Lights Backdrop

Here’s what you’ll need to create a curtain lights backdrop:

• A roll of white tulle fabric or sheer curtains
• String lights
• Curtain rod
• Curtain rod brackets
• Clear shipping tape

Note: The length of the string lights needed will depend on the length and width of your curtains and your desired lighting effect.

Step 1: Choose Your Space

Before you begin, you’ll want to find the perfect spot for your curtain lights backdrop.

If you want to use your curtains as a backdrop for photos, consider hanging them in a clutter-free place. Excessive decorations or messiness can become a distraction in photos.

Choose a space with wall plug access if your lights require one. Add curtain lights to a window, door or bed frame for the easiest installation.

Step 2: Install Curtain Rod Brackets and a Curtain Rod

The best way to hang your curtain lights backdrop is on a curtain rod. Therefore, you’ll also need to install curtain rod brackets – but don’t panic! It’s really quite easy.

This step seems daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Hang your curtains in seconds with Kwik Hang’s no-damage, easy-to-install curtain rod brackets! Just place the bracket on a door, window or other wood frame, tap it in with a hammer and you’re done.

Once you’ve installed your brackets, you’ll need a curtain rod to support your lights and curtains. Place the curtain rod of your choice into the brackets, and you’re ready to start hanging your lights!

Step 3: Hang Lights

String your lights over the curtain rod and use small pieces of clear shipping tape to hold the lights in place. Start the end of the light string on the floor, ensuring access to a wall plug if needed.

Drape the lights over the rod and bring them back to the floor, repeating the process until you reach the end of the string of lights. Space the lights out evenly along the rod.

Remember that you can always vary the height and draping of your lights depending on the look you want.

Pro tip: If a wall plug isn’t close by and you have to use an extension cord, make sure the cord doesn’t create a tripping hazard.

Step 4: Hang the Tulle or Curtains

Now it’s time to hang your tulle. Cut the tulle to your desired length and drape it over the curtain rod. Repeat this process until you achieve the look you want. The more tulle you use, the more blurred the lights will be. We recommend using at least four layers of tulle.

If you’re worried about the tulle staying secure, attach zip ties around the tulle and curtain rod or place clear packaging tape at the ends of the tulle against the curtain rod.

Alternatively, you can use ready-made sheer or white curtains instead of tulle if privacy is an issue.

Curtain Lights for Special Occasions

Curtain lights are suitable for a variety of uses and occasions. Here are a few creative ways to use curtain light backdrops here, there and everywhere.

Weddings

Create an unforgettable wedding altar by layering a curtain lights backdrop with gauzy drapes and flowers.Or, create a celebratory photo booth using a curtain lights backdrop adorned with twinkle lights and flowers or vines.

Baby Showers

Use pink or blue curtain lights for a baby shower or gender reveal party.

Outdoors

Outdoor patios and gazebos look cozy year-round with curtain light draperies.

Read more: 10 Patio Door Curtain Ideas You’ll Love

Instagram Posts

Dress up your social media presence by adding:

• Twinkling or color-changing lights
• Vines or floral garlands over the top of your curtain light backdrop for a boho flair

Home Decor

Hanging curtain lights on a window or wall adds an unmistakably hygge vibe. Increase the coziness by scattering blankets, pillows and candles around the room.

Holiday Photos and Decor

Holiday light combinations are endless!

• Use red and green lights or red berries and mistletoe for Christmas
• Use blue and white lights for Hanukkah
• Use purple, orange and green lights for Halloween
• Use red, white and blue lights for the 4th of July

Birthdays

Embellish your curtain backdrop with small balloons to create a celebratory spirit.

Kwik-Hang Curtain Rod Brackets Make Decor Dreams Come True

Ready to get started on your DIY curtain lights backdrop project? It couldn’t be easier with Kwik-Hang curtain rod brackets.

Kwik-Hang brackets won’t damage your walls, making them ideal for renters, students, frequent movers or anyone who hates patching holes (read: everyone). They’re safe and sturdy, and you’ll be able to hang your curtains (and curtain light backdrop) right the first time.

Try Kwik Hang’s no-damage, easy-to-install curtain rod brackets and curtain rods today!