If your curtains could use a little personality but you’re not looking to spend big, rope tiebacks are the perfect touch. They’re rustic, simple, and surprisingly stylish. Plus, they’re easy to make — no fancy tools or skills needed. Here’s how to turn a few feet of rope into something that makes your space feel finished.
What You’ll Need
- A length of rope (cotton, jute, or whatever fits your style)
- Scissors
- Measuring tape
- Hot glue gun or strong craft glue
- Optional: small hooks, metal rings, or decorative ends (like wooden beads or knots)
Step 1: Measure and Cut
Pull your curtain to one side and use your measuring tape to determine the length of the tieback. A good rule of thumb is about two-thirds the width of the curtain panel. Once you’ve got the length, cut two pieces of rope — one for each side.
Step 2: Seal the Ends
Rope tends to fray, so take a moment to seal the ends. You can dab on a bit of glue or, if it’s synthetic rope, carefully melt the tips with a lighter. If you prefer a cleaner look, wrap the ends tightly with twine or thread.
Step 3: Add Some Style
This is where you can get creative. You could:
- Knot the ends for a simple, natural look.
- Glue on metal rings or hooks so they’re easy to hang on small wall hooks.
- Thread on wooden beads for a touch of warmth and texture.
Whatever you choose, make it match your room’s vibe — coastal, farmhouse, boho, or clean and modern.
Step 4: Hang Them Up
Attach small hooks or nails to the wall beside each window frame, or use existing hardware if available. Loop or clip your rope tiebacks around the curtains, adjust until they sit just right, and step back to admire your work.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
If the rope feels too stiff, lightly steam it or work it between your hands until it softens. You can also stain or paint it for a more finished look — white for breezy coastal style, dark brown for a classic touch, or bright colors for fun contrast.
That’s it — simple, affordable, and done in under an hour. Rope curtain tiebacks are one of those small details that quietly pull a room together. You don’t need to be a crafter or designer to make them look good. Just a bit of rope, a few minutes, and your own sense of style.