Before I share my very unique do-it-yourself curtain tie back, let me go ahead and address the question everyone asks. Are curtain tie backs old fashioned? Well, considering that they date back to the 16th Century, you could definitely say they are classic but far from old-fashioned. In my new dining room that I have been working on for almost two years now, I am paying homage to some of my favorite eras, the 20s, Tudor Times, and the 16th Century Renaissance age. I know, quite the mixture, and I will be doing a big reveal as soon as all of my pieces arrive. However, my latest dining-room project was to create eye-catching curtain tie-backs since I can’t find anything unique in store.
DIY Curtain Tieback
This project kind of began backwards. I was perusing one of my favorite Midtown shops, Paradox at PeCo (their IG) and discovered these beautiful tassel “do-hickeys.” I call them do-hickeys because I knew I needed to have them but had no clue what I would do with them. I thought about hanging them on my door knobs but knew my husband would end up taking them off. Then I thought about incorporating them into my decorative towels in the half-bath but my boys always rub their Cheeto fingers on those. Then the idea came to me, I will make curtain tie-backs for my new dining-room. After all, the dining room is only used on occasions and therefore neither my husband or kids frequent the space enough to mess with my tassels.
After gathering the supplies needed to get the job done, this project was super easy and only took 30 minutes to complete.
Supplies Needed
Paradox at PeCo Tassles (they have tons of different colors and medallions)
Fringe Chiffon Ribbon you can also use a fringed velvet ribbon
Drill and Screws (for securing hooks)
Unique Antique Style Curtain Tiebacks
How To Make Curtain Tie Backs
secure the curtain tieback hook to the wall
First, I secure my curtain tieback hook to the wall. Be sure to take measurements on how far your hook sits from the window frame and floor. You will want to make sure that you secure a hook on the other side of your window in the exact same spot.
Add Ribbon to Pendant
Then, I took a long strand of my ribbon and neatly tied my tassel in the middle. As you can see, I was very particular about the way I tied my knot so that it did not look messy or bunched up.
Tie the Curtains to hook
The last part is all about “eyeballing” it. I pulled the ribbon around my curtains and tied them back on the hook with a bow. If you do not want a bow tieback, you can always sew the ribbon together to make a full loop and then cut off any excess ribbon at the tieback.
These tie backs are are one of a kind and pair so lovely with my dining-room. Stay tuned for the full dining-room reveal FINALLY posting next month. Just waiting on my new chairs and rug.
Curtain Tie Back Ideas
Curtain tie backs may seem like a small design detail, but they can completely change the overall look and feel of a room. Beyond simply holding curtains open, tie backs help frame windows beautifully, allow more natural light into your space, and add an extra layer of texture and personality to your décor. Whether your style leans modern, romantic, coastal, traditional, or eclectic, the right curtain tie back can make your window treatments feel far more intentional and elevated.
Rope Curtain Tie Backs
Rope tie backs are timeless and versatile, making them a favorite for coastal, organic modern, and farmhouse interiors. Thick braided rope instantly adds texture and warmth while still feeling effortless and relaxed. Neutral cotton rope creates a soft casual vibe, while velvet or metallic rope options can feel more elegant and dramatic.
Gold and Brass Curtain Tie Backs
If you want your space to feel more luxurious, gold or brass curtain tie backs are a beautiful option. Sleek metallic hardware instantly makes curtains appear more polished and high-end. Modern geometric designs work especially well in contemporary spaces, while antique brass finishes complement traditional or vintage-inspired rooms.
Fabric / Rattan Style Curtain Tie Backs
Fabric tie backs offer a softer and more romantic look. Matching fabric tie backs create a cohesive, tailored appearance, while contrasting fabrics can add visual interest and dimension. Velvet fabric tie backs feel rich and sophisticated, linen creates a relaxed airy aesthetic, and patterned fabrics can introduce a playful touch to the room.
Beaded Curtain Tie Backs
Beaded curtain tie backs are perfect for adding personality and decorative detail to your space. Crystal beads can create an elegant glam-inspired feel, while wooden beads work beautifully in bohemian or earthy interiors. These styles act almost like jewelry for your curtains and can instantly make window treatments feel more styled and intentional.
Tassel Curtain Tie Backs
Tassel curtain tie backs have a classic, designer-inspired appearance that works especially well in formal living rooms, dining rooms, or bedrooms. Oversized tassels can make a dramatic statement, while smaller tassels add subtle sophistication. Rich colors like emerald, navy, burgundy, or champagne often create the most luxurious effect.
Magnetic Curtain Tie Backs
For a simple and modern solution, magnetic curtain tie backs are incredibly popular. They are easy to install, adjustable, and perfect for renters since they require no wall hooks or hardware. Magnetic tie backs come in countless styles ranging from sleek minimalist designs to decorative pearl or crystal options.
Leather Curtain Tie Backs
Leather tie backs are ideal for modern, masculine, rustic, or Scandinavian-inspired interiors. They add texture and warmth while maintaining a clean, understated aesthetic. Brown leather creates a cozy natural look, while black leather paired with matte hardware feels sleek and contemporary.
Floral Curtain Tie Backs
Floral curtain tie backs bring softness and charm into a room and are especially beautiful for spring décor, nurseries, feminine spaces, or cottage-inspired interiors. Faux flowers, dried florals, or delicate greenery can transform basic curtains into a more whimsical focal point.
Minimalist Curtain Tie Backs
Minimalist tie backs focus on simplicity and clean lines. Thin metal loops, understated fabric bands, or invisible acrylic designs work beautifully in modern interiors where you want the curtains to look elegant without overwhelming the room. These styles help maintain a light, airy, uncluttered feel.
DIY Curtain Tie Back Ideas
DIY curtain tie backs are a great way to personalize your space while staying budget-friendly. Some creative ideas include:
- Vintage belts
- Pearl strands
- Macramé cords
- Twisted scarves
- Wooden beads
- Ribbon
- Decorative chains
- Braided yarn or fabric strips
DIY options allow you to customize your curtains to perfectly match your existing décor style while adding a unique and personal touch to your home.
Different Ways To Tie Back Curtains
There are countless ways to tie back curtains, and the method you choose can dramatically change the style and functionality of your window treatments. Some techniques create a polished and formal appearance, while others feel relaxed, airy, and effortless. The right curtain tie back style can help enhance natural light, showcase beautiful fabric, and add extra personality to your space.
The Classic Side Tie Back
The classic side tie back is one of the most traditional and timeless ways to style curtains. In this method, curtains are gathered and secured about one-third of the way up from the bottom using decorative tie backs, hooks, or fabric bands. This creates a balanced and elegant look that works beautifully in living rooms, dining rooms, and bedrooms.
The Center Tie Back
For a softer and more romantic appearance, curtains can be tied back in the center. This style gathers the curtain fabric inward, creating an hourglass shape that feels charming and slightly vintage-inspired. Center tie backs work especially well with sheer curtains or lightweight fabrics.
The Loose Draped Tie Back
A loose draped tie back creates a more casual and effortless aesthetic. Instead of tightly securing the curtain, the fabric is gently gathered and loosely draped to create soft folds and movement. This style pairs beautifully with linen curtains, coastal interiors, and relaxed modern spaces.
The High Tie Back
Positioning curtain tie backs higher on the panel creates a more dramatic and formal appearance. High tie backs allow more natural light into the room while making windows appear taller and more grand. This technique works especially well in elegant spaces with long, flowing curtains.
The Low Tie Back
Low tie backs create a softer, more relaxed look. By securing curtains closer to the lower portion of the panel, the fabric naturally billows at the top and adds volume and texture to the window treatment. This method is often used in cozy, romantic, or traditional interiors.
The Knotted Curtain Style
Instead of using traditional hardware, some homeowners simply knot the curtain fabric itself. This creates a casual, organic appearance that feels modern yet approachable. Loose knots work beautifully with sheer curtains, lightweight linen panels, or bohemian-inspired décor.
The One-Sided Curtain Pull Back
A one-sided pull back involves gathering both curtain panels to one side of the window rather than evenly splitting them apart. This asymmetrical look can feel elegant, dramatic, and slightly editorial, especially in rooms with large windows or scenic outdoor views.
The Layered Curtain Tie Back
For homes with layered window treatments, tie backs can be used strategically to showcase multiple fabrics at once. Sheer curtains can remain loose while heavier outer drapes are tied back, creating depth, softness, and dimension within the space.
The No-Hardware Curtain Tie Back
For a relaxed and renter-friendly option, curtains can be casually tucked behind furniture, looped with ribbon, or secured using magnetic tie backs without permanent wall hooks. This creates a clean and effortless appearance while avoiding installation damage.
The Twisted Fabric Tie Back
Twisting curtain panels before securing them creates extra texture and visual interest. This styling method works particularly well with velvet, silk, or lightweight flowing fabrics and adds a more designer-inspired feel to window treatments.
window treatmentIn need of some new windows? Recently I have been learning all things green and sustainability. In my research on the subject, I came across the topic of energy efficient energy-efficient vinyl windows and doors, with a focus on ENERGY STAR-rated and NAFS-11 tested products. Naturally I climbed down the rabbit hole a little further and discovered ecoline windows which led me to Google “where are ecoline windows manufactured.” Since ecoline windows are made in Ontario, you can easily get them fitted for your home.
Want to share this DIY with your friends and family?
Pin the image below to your favorite DIY board.
Please Note: I always strive to provide accurate and helpful information, but just a quick heads-up—I’m a blogger, not a doctor, lawyer, CPA, or any other kind of certified professional. I’m here to share my experiences and insights, but please make sure to use your own judgment and consult the right professionals when needed.
Also, I accept monetary compensation through affiliate links, advertising, guest posts, and sponsored partnerships on this site, however I am very particular about the products I endorse and only do so when I am truly a fan of the quality and result of the product.
