Grommet curtains (sometimes called eyelet curtains) are the panels with a row of metal-ringed holes across the top that the rod slides directly through. They’re one of the most popular curtain headers for a reason: they glide easily, hang in clean, evenly spaced folds, and have a crisp, modern look with zero extra hardware.
Here’s everything you need to choose and hang them.
What grommet curtains are
The “grommet” is the reinforced ring set into the top of the panel. The curtain rod threads straight through those rings, so the fabric falls into uniform, accordion-like folds. No rings to clip, no hooks, no pleat tape — you just slide the rod through and you’re done.
The pros and cons
Pros
- Glide smoothly — easy to open and close daily
- Clean, modern folds that look tidy with little effort
- No extra hardware (rings or hooks) to buy
- Contemporary look that suits most rooms
Cons
- Less formal than pinch-pleat or goblet headers
- The rod shows between folds (choose a rod you like)
- Grommet size must match your rod (more on that below)
- Not the absolute best for full blackout (a little light can sneak through the top ring gaps)
For how this compares to pleat, rod-pocket, and tab-top headers, see our different types of curtains guide.
What rod size do grommet curtains need?
This is the one spec people miss: the rod diameter must be smaller than the inside diameter of the grommet, or the rings won’t slide.
- Most grommet panels have a 1.5–1.6 inch inner ring and are made for rods up to about 1 ⅜ inch diameter.
- Always check the grommet’s inner diameter on the product page and pick a rod (including the finials’ fit) that slides through easily.
- Finials must be removable so you can thread the rod through the grommets.
How to hang grommet curtains
- Mount the rod high and wide — above the frame and past each side (see our hanging guide).
- Remove a finial, slide the rod through all the grommets, then replace the finial.
- Arrange the folds so the front grommets all face the window for a uniform “wave.”
- For a tidy look, train the folds by gently creasing them front-to-back and tying loosely for a day or two.
How to add grommets to existing curtains
Want to convert plain panels? You can add grommets yourself with a grommet kit:
- Buy a snap-together grommet kit (no special tools needed for most).
- Add a strip of grommet/header tape across the top for stiffness.
- Mark even spacing — an even number of grommets (so both edges face the wall), typically 6–8 inches apart.
- Trace and cut each hole, then snap the two grommet halves together through the fabric.
Work slowly and measure twice — even spacing is what makes them hang evenly.
Frequently asked questions
What are grommet curtains?
Curtains with metal-ringed holes (grommets/eyelets) across the top that the rod slides through, creating clean, evenly spaced folds and a smooth glide with no extra hardware.
What size rod do I need for grommet curtains?
A rod with a diameter smaller than the grommet’s inner ring — most grommets fit rods up to about 1 ⅜ inches. Always check the grommet’s inner diameter on the product page.
Are grommet curtains good for blackout?
They’re good for everyday light control, but a little light can slip through the gaps at the top rings. For full blackout, pair them with a blackout lining or choose a different header.
How do you put grommets in curtains?
Use a snap-together grommet kit: add header tape for stiffness, mark even spacing (an even number of grommets), trace and cut each hole, then snap the grommet halves together through the fabric.
Get the clean, modern grommet look
Grommet curtains are easy to live with and easy to love — just match them to the right rod.
👉 Shop our drapery collection, or book a free consultation and we’ll help you pick the right header and rod for your windows.