Hanging Camper Curtains: A Step-By-Step Guide

Hanging curtains in your camper van is a great way to ensure privacy and comfort during your travels. There are several methods you can use to hang camper curtains, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. In this article, we will explore different approaches, from using tension rods and adhesive hooks to sewing magnets or Velcro into your curtains. We will also discuss the importance of fabric choice, including weight, colour, and pattern. By the end, you should have a clear idea of the best approach for your camper curtains, ensuring a good night's sleep wherever your travels take you.

Choosing the right fabric

Fabric Weight and Thickness

The weight and thickness of the fabric play a crucial role in the overall functionality of your camper curtains. Opting for a fabric that is too thin may result in sunlight shining through, compromising your privacy. On the other hand, an overly thick fabric can lead to excessive heat buildup inside your vehicle. The recommended thickness is 0.015 inches or slightly above, providing an optimal balance between light blockage and ventilation.

Colour and Light Blocking

When it comes to colour, darker shades are generally preferable for camper curtains. Colours like black, brown, dark blue, dark green, and dark purple excel at blocking sunlight and maintaining privacy. Lighter colours, such as yellow or sky blue, tend to allow more light to pass through and can become transparent over time. If you're aiming for blackout curtains, consider attaching a blackout curtain liner to your chosen fabric or purchasing premade blackout curtains and cutting them to size.

Fabric Type and Pattern

The type of fabric you choose should have tight fibres to prevent light seepage and ensure durability. Consider fabrics like Polyester fleece, which offers insulation and has non-fraying edges, eliminating the need for hemming. If you opt for a patterned fabric, ensure that the pattern is level when cutting and that the pieces align symmetrically or continuously when hung in the windows.

Fabric Amount

It is advisable to purchase more fabric than you need to account for hems and potential errors. For example, if your window measures 50 inches by 70 inches, aim for a fabric piece that is at least 55 inches by 75 inches. This extra fabric will allow for a neat finish and provide flexibility during the cutting and sewing process.

Using velcro

Step 1: Gather Materials

You will need a van, velcro with stick hooks and sew loops, sewable material for the curtains, a sewing machine, fabric scissors, pins, and a helper.

Step 2: Measure and Cut the Fabric

Hold the fabric up to the windows and use your helper to support the pieces while you mark the edges. You can use the contours of the body panels to define the edge of the curtains. Cut the fabric to size, allowing for a hem.

Step 3: Create the Hem

Mark an offset from the edge line for the hem. For example, if you want a 20mm hem, mark an offset of 40mm. Fold over the hem and use pins to hold the layers of cloth together. Iron the hem to create a crisp edge.

Step 4: Attach the Velcro

Calculate the number of velcro strips needed for each window, allowing for a few extra strips. Pin the hook strips in the corners of the curtains, offsetting them slightly from the corners so they don't interfere with the window sills. Sew the strips onto the curtains, reinforcing the stitches to ensure a strong hold.

Step 5: Mount the Curtains

Use the stick-on hook strips to attach the curtains to the van. Stick them to the corners of the windows, pulling the fabric taut and working your way around the window.

Step 6: Enjoy Your Curtains!

Your camper curtains are now ready to use! This method provides privacy and a clean look without the need for a rail system. You can also make a small drawstring bag to store the curtains when they're not in use.

Tips and Considerations:

• It is recommended to use sew-on velcro for a stronger bond that can withstand washing.
• If using adhesive velcro, opt for industrial-strength velcro and ensure you have a lightweight fabric.
• Regular adhesive-backed velcro may not withstand high temperatures and can peel off over time.
• Keep in mind the function of your curtains (e.g. blackout, climate control) when choosing your fabric.
• If your windows tilt outward, consider a way to hold the curtains away from the glass to prevent condensation and mould.
• If you don't want to sew, consider using fabric fuse tape for creating hems.

Using magnets

To hang camper curtains with magnets, you can sew magnets into the seams of the curtains. Small neodymium magnets are preferred as they are strong yet hardly visible and will not damage the fabric. The number of magnets needed will depend on the format and material of the curtain, as well as the distance between the magnets and the surface. For heavier fabrics or wider curtains, you may need to adjust the number or strength of the magnets.

When sewing magnets into the seams, it is important to fasten them securely with a few stitches to prevent them from moving around. Alternatively, you can use sew-in magnets that can be directly attached to the fabric without the need for stitching.

If your camper has metal interior panelling, the magnets will attach directly to the surface. However, if the walls are made of a non-magnetic material, you can attach a steel plate to the wall using glue, screws, or rivets, and then attach the magnets in the curtains to the plate.

For an even simpler solution, you can use magnetic tape. Attach the tape to the wall, and the magnets in the curtain will stick to it. This provides more flexibility with the curtain as you are not limited to specific spots where magnets are placed.

When hanging camper curtains with magnets, it is important to consider the weight of the fabric and ensure that the magnets are strong enough to hold the curtains in place. Additionally, always remember to remove the magnetised curtains and store them safely before moving your camper to prevent them from falling and causing damage.

Using hooks

Hanging camper curtains with hooks is a straightforward process, but it does require some careful planning and precision. Here is a detailed guide on how to do it:

Planning and Preparation:

Before you begin, lay your curtain on a flat surface, such as a table or the floor, close to the window where you'll be hanging them. This will make it easier to work on the curtains without having to carry them through the house. Count the number of drapery hooks and ring clips you have and divide them equally among the number of curtains you need to hang. It is recommended to have 7-10 hooks per curtain to support the weight of the fabric adequately.

Inserting the Hooks:

Locate the top of the curtain, which is usually the pleated or double-folded area. Measure about 1/2 an inch (or 1.3 cm) down from the top of the curtain, and mark this spot with a pencil. This is where the top of the hook will go. Take one of the drapery hooks and carefully insert the sharp side into the curtain seam on the back of the curtain, pushing it up so that it is fully inserted and hidden within the fabric. Repeat this process for each seam, ensuring that the hooks are evenly spaced. Check the front of the curtain to make sure no hooks are peeking through. If necessary, adjust the fabric so that you are only piercing the back of the curtain.

Installing the Curtain Rod and Hanging the Curtains:

Secure your chosen curtain rod above the window or according to your preferred height. Install the ring clips onto the curtain rod by sliding them on. You can then attach the drapery hooks to the ring clips before lifting the curtain, making the process easier. Hold the curtain up to the curtain rod, lifting it from the top to avoid ruffling. Loop each drapery hook through the corresponding link on the curtain rod, starting from one end and working your way in. Ensure that all hooks are securely fastened before releasing the curtains.

Final Adjustments and Testing:

Slowly release the curtains and allow the hooks to adjust to the weight of the fabric. Check once more to ensure that every hook is properly attached and that the curtains are hanging evenly. Finally, test your curtains by sliding them back and forth to ensure they move smoothly along the rod.

Hanging curtains with a rod

Choose the Right Curtain Rod:

Firstly, you need to select an appropriate curtain rod for your camper curtains. Consider the weight and length of your curtains to choose a rod that can support them effectively. Tension rods are a good option for hanging curtains without drilling holes in the walls. If you have lightweight curtains, you can also use command hooks to hang the rod, but make sure to clean the wall with alcohol before attaching the hooks.

Measure and Mark the Window:

Decide on the placement of your curtains, whether you prefer an outside mount or an inside mount. For taller-looking windows, measure and mark 4 to 6 inches above the window frame. Use a steel measuring tape to find the centre of your window and then measure out to each side, marking the desired width for your curtains. Don't forget to subtract a few inches for brackets and finials.

Install the Curtain Hardware:

Position your wall brackets over the marks you made and use a pencil to mark the screw holes. Drill guide holes, install plastic wall anchors for support, and then screw the brackets into the walls using a drill or screwdriver. Make sure the brackets are securely attached and can bear the weight of the curtains and rod.

Prepare the Curtains:

Choose a fabric that suits your preferences and the purpose of the curtains. If you want to block out light, opt for thicker fabrics. Cut the fabric to the desired dimensions, leaving some extra length for hemming and for the rod pocket. Hem all the edges to prevent fraying, and create a rod pocket at the top by folding and sewing or using iron-on fusible webbing.

Hang the Curtains:

Slide the curtains onto the rod, ensuring that the rod goes through the rod pocket at the top of the curtains. Attach any finials or other accessories to the ends of the rod. Carefully lift the rod and place it onto the mounted brackets, securing it in place. Adjust the curtains so that they fan out nicely and hang properly.

By following these steps, you will be able to hang camper curtains with a rod, adding privacy and customisation to your space.

Frequently asked questions