We are known for our vast array of custom bracket configurations. We have special order forms for most of them because we know that every window treatment creates some sort of challenge. Knowing the ways around the obstacles is our specialty. Having our own metal artists and an on-site blacksmith gives us a definite advantage when it comes to specialty brackets.
These are my top ten simple bracket hacks. There are many more that I will share in future posts.
1) Make it Adjustable
Brackets with different clearances are frequently needed to keep a treatment even across a window. For bay windows and bowed windows, adjustable brackets are the best option because they hide a multitude of sins. However, mounting the center bracket on the window molding can create a difference that is easily taken care of by an adjustable bracket. Eliminate the stress of making sure each bracket is the exact clearance needed for each area. And sometimes, you just don’t know the exact clearance you need to make sure your drapery does not interfere with a treatment mounted behind the drapery. Play it safe…
Special tip: for bay windows and bowed windows, adjustable brackets are the best option.
2) Make it Metal.
Our wood rods have a bracket to bracket maximum of 72″. It is so common for builder’s to leave only a few inches for brackets above a window. Sometimes the problem is ceiling molding, or another window above the lower one. Either way, there is still no space. If you have a wood rod and cannot make the bracket fit where you need it, change out the bulky wood bracket for a metal one. We can usually finish it to match the wood – many of our finishes are available on wood and metal hardware anyway.
3) Go Horizontal.
For any rod type, if you need a center bracket and there is no room above the window, make the back plate horizontal. The wide plate is partially hidden by the rod itself so it tends to be inconspicuous. We use these a lot with French Poles but they can be made for any rod configuration, even Ruffino Track.
4) Hang it UP!
If there is no wall space for your bracket, ceiling mount your rod with a custom ceiling mount bracket. You specify the drop, which is the distance between the ceiling and the bottom of the rod. This is great for outdoors or really any place you want to hang a treatment without benefit of the side wall. It also works well to suspend rods from the bottom of a cornice. Ruffino track can be flush mounted to the ceiling as well.
5) Change the Profile.
In cases where you need the rod as close to the ceiling as possible, use a bracket with the saddle arm at the top of the mounting plate. Our standard brackets all have a mounting hole above the top of the rod. When this is not possible, we can make you a bracket you can slide as far up as you like. All of the mounting holes are below. You can even modify it to raise the rod above the bracket!
6) Trim it Down.
Our Artigiani brackets have a gorgeous shaped back plate and a very distinctive saddle design. We can easily trim the back plate to make it fit the space you have without losing the charm of the Artigiani bracket. You can use the Artigiani brackets on the outside ends and use the trimmed down version for your support brackets.
7) Bulk it Up.
Sometimes it takes a bigger plate on the back of the bracket to support the weight of your treatment. This is wise if you are using heavy fabric and you are unsure about the mounting surface. Adding a wider plate to the bracket gives you more chance of hitting a stud with at least part of your installation screws. Note the additional gusset to support the saddle. We recommend a gusset for clearances of more than 6-1/2″.
 8) Eliminate the Back Plate.
When you need to mount a bracket to the top of a recessed area like the inside of the window opening, just eliminate the back plate altogether. This comes in handy for center supports when spanning an area with both upper and lower windows.
9) Add a Medallion!
If you have no room for a finial but want a decorative end to your drapery, have a medallion or finial mounted on the bracket. The post on the bracket holds the medallion in place and also allows the rings to pass behind the face of the medallion.
10) Corner it!
When you need to have your drapery draw all of the way into a corner, our custom corner bracket gives you stability and a smooth look. All of the angles are custom made to your specifications. You can even choose your style of backplate!