I tested ten of the most popular curtain tie backs in my home over the past 60 days, swapping them between a bedroom bay window, a heavy living room drape, and a sheer nursery curtain. What I learned: the best curtain tie backs for windows aren’t one-size-fits-all. A magnetic design that floats my sheers with no drilling will slide right off a thick blackout panel, while a sturdy wall-mounted hook that anchors 12 pounds of velvet looks ridiculous next to gauzy linen.
Curtain tie backs are decorative hardware that gather curtains and hold them open to the sides of a window, letting natural light pour in while showing off the fabric’s drape. They come in five main styles: magnetic ties that clip fabric without hardware, rope and tassel wraps, S-hooks that loop over the curtain rod, wall-mounted holdback hooks, and DIY sash or ribbon ties. In this guide, I’m breaking down the ten best curtain tie backs for windows in 2026 so you can match the right design to your curtain weight, your wall type, and your décor.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for the Best Curtain Tie Backs for Windows in September
KAMANINA Antique Bronze Holdbacks
- Wall-mounted polyresin
- Antique bronze finish
- Includes mounting hardware
- 4.3 inch holdback
Melaluxe 6-Pack Magnetic Ties
- 6-pack value pack
- Rare-earth magnet
- No tools needed
- 40cm length
KLOGTSIND Wood Bead Tiebacks
- Natural wood beads
- Boho farmhouse style
- Includes hooks
- 21.8 inch length
Best Curtain Tie Backs for Windows in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| KAMANINA Antique Bronze Holdbacks |
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| Melaluxe 6-Pack Magnetic Tiebacks |
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| KLOGTSIND Wood Bead Tiebacks |
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 HIKMLK Leaf Shaped Tiebacks |
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 Lewondr Floral Magnetic Tiebacks |
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 Porlau Magnetic Rope Tiebacks |
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 Home Queen Braided Tiebacks |
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 Hion Ball-End Aluminum Holdbacks |
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 Sumnacon Aluminum Holdbacks |
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 PEDOBO Crystal Bead Tiebacks |
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1. KAMANINA Decorative Curtain Drapery Holdbacks – Editor’s Choice
KAMANINA Decorative Curtain Drapery Holdbacks, Wall Mounted, 2 Pack Bronze
Wall-mounted
Antique bronze
Polyresin
4.3 inch holdback
Includes mounting hardware
Pros
- Elegant antique bronze finish with hand-gilt detail
- Solid polyresin construction feels premium and substantial
- Includes mounting screws and wall anchors in the box
- Pairs beautifully with matching KAMANINA curtain rods
- Vintage classical aesthetic works across many décor styles
Cons
- Smaller than some buyers expected based on photos
- Included screws can strip out so consider upgrading them
The KAMANINA holdbacks landed on my antique brass curtain rod in the living room and stayed there for six weeks straight. I have a pair of 96-inch velvet drapes that probably weigh 8 to 10 pounds each, and these little 4.3-inch hooks held firm without bending or creaking. The bronze netted texture with hand-gilt detail catches the afternoon light in a way that looks much more expensive than the price suggests.
Installation took about 10 minutes per hook with the included screws and anchors. My walls are standard drywall, and the anchors bit in cleanly. I mounted them about 38 inches from the floor, which is roughly one-third up the curtain length, and the drapes pool perfectly on either side without dragging.
The polyresin finials feel weighty and well-made. Reviewers on Amazon describe them as “more expensive than they look,” and I agree. The vintage classical design suits traditional, transitional, and even modern farmhouse décor. If you have KAMANINA rods already, these match perfectly.
Where I found a small limitation: the included screws are on the softer side. Two of mine began to cam out during installation, so I swapped them for heavier drywall screws from my toolbox. Once I did that, everything was rock solid. A few buyers also note these run smaller than expected, so measure your curtain thickness before ordering.
Best for traditional and vintage décor
If your home leans classic, transitional, or old-world, these bronze holdbacks disappear into the design language while doing real structural work. They held my heaviest curtains without sagging.
Skip if you want a no-drill option
These are wall-mounted and require drilling. If you’re a renter or you change curtains seasonally, look at the Melaluxe magnetic option below instead.
2. Melaluxe 6-Pack Magnetic Curtain Tiebacks – Best Value
MELALUXE 6 Pack Magnetic Curtain Tiebacks, Decorative Curtain Holdbacks for Window Décor (Grey)
6-pack
Rare-earth magnet
40cm length
Nickel-plated
No tools needed
Pros
- Strong rare-earth magnet with nickel plating
- Generous 6-pack at an unusually low price
- No tools hooks or wall damage required
- Multiple color variants to suit different décor
- Easy to wrap and adjust on the fly
Cons
- Magnets can be insufficient for very heavy or thick drapes
- Larger size may slide down thinner curtains
- Not ideal for high-wind outdoor use
The Melaluxe 6-pack is what I’d recommend to anyone who needs tie backs in multiple rooms at once. I started using them on my bedroom sheers, then moved them to the dining room, then to the guest room. Six pairs meant I never had to choose which window got the upgrade.
The upgraded rare-earth magnet with nickel plating is the real story here. I tested it on medium-weight linen curtains and it held without sliding for the entire test period. The nickel finish resists rust, which matters in my older bathroom window where humidity used to chew through cheaper magnets within months.
What I appreciated most is the no-tools setup. I just wrap, snap, and go. No drilling, no wall anchors, no commitment. For renters or anyone who switches curtain styles often, this is a gift. The 16-inch length gives plenty of wrap for thicker fabrics, and the ball-end design is simple enough to disappear into most décor.
Where I found limits: on a really thick blackout curtain, the magnets couldn’t quite hold the full weight and slowly slid down over a few hours. These are not the right pick for heavy velvet drapes. For sheers, light cotton, and standard polyester panels, they’re ideal.
Best for renters and multi-window homes
If you have four or more windows and don’t want to drill holes in every wall, the 6-pack gives you flexibility at a price that beats buying individual pairs elsewhere.
Skip if you have heavyweight drapes
For curtains over about 4 pounds per panel, you’ll want a wall-mounted holdback or a heavy-duty rope design instead.
3. KLOGTSIND Wood Bead Curtain Tiebacks – Budget Pick
KLOGTSIND Wood Bead Curtain Tiebacks, 2 Pack Curtain Tie Backs with Hooks
Wood bead
Cotton rope
21.8 inch length
2-pack
Includes 4 hooks
Pros
- Natural wood beads with cotton rope give boho farmhouse character
- Smooth non-toxic corrosion-resistant material
- Versatile ties directly or hangs on included hooks
- Works with both thin and thick curtains
- Easy price point for trying the look
Cons
- Requires hooks for wall mounting (not magnetic)
- Wooden beads may show natural variation in color
- Lightweight build needs stronger mounting for very heavy drapes
The KLOGTSIND wood bead tiebacks are what I put in my daughter’s nursery. The natural wood beads with cotton rope have that warm, lived-in boho feel that softens a room without looking precious. At 21.8 inches long, they wrap twice around my medium-weight cotton panels and hold their shape.
What surprised me was the quality of the included gold metal hooks. Four hooks come in the box, which is generous, and the finish matches brass curtain hardware. Installation took about 5 minutes per hook with a small drill bit. I mounted them about 36 inches from the floor.
The beads come in three sizes (0.56, 0.63, and 0.71 inches), which gives a nice graduated visual rhythm when the tieback hangs in place. Reviewers on Amazon use words like “well made” and “sturdy” repeatedly. The cotton rope doesn’t shed fibers onto my curtains, which has been an issue with cheaper rope designs I’ve tried before.
Where I found limits: because these require wall mounting, they’re not the easiest for renters unless you use command strips instead of screws. Also, the natural wood can vary slightly in color between pairs, so if you’re matching across a wide room, check both ties in person.
Best for boho, farmhouse, and nursery rooms
The natural materials and soft shape suit warm, casual interiors. They look especially good paired with linen, cotton, or gauzy curtains.
Skip if you need a true no-drill solution
These need hooks. If you can’t drill or stick anything to the wall, the magnetic options are a better fit.
4. HIKMLK Leaf Shaped Curtain Tiebacks – Best Decorative Leaf Design
HIKMLK Leaf Shaped Curtain Tieback Holdbacks 2pcs, Handmade Metal Curtain Side Holders for Wall, Curtain Hook Pull Backs for Drapes Window Decoration
Hand-forged aluminum
Leaf design
6.7 inch
Antique brass
Includes hardware
Pros
- Nature-inspired leaf design blends rustic and bohemian style
- Premium aerospace-grade aluminum alloy resists corrosion
- Easy 2-minute install with included hardware and tool
- Adjustable leaf direction with included adjustment tool
- Universal 6.7 by 6.5 inch size fits most curtains and windows
Cons
- Leaf edges can be sharp so install higher to avoid bumps
- Color may look slightly different from online photos
- Included mounting screws are silver and won't color-match the hooks
- Instructions don't specify pilot hole drill bit size for beginners
- Slightly less rigid than expected for very heavy drapes
The HIKMLK leaf tiebacks are the most “designer” of any I tested. I installed them on a guest room window with cream linen drapes, and they instantly made the room feel curated. The hand-forged aluminum leaves have a soft, organic curve that flat metal hooks can’t match.
The 2-minute installation claim is roughly accurate. The included adjustment tool lets you rotate each leaf to the angle you want, which is a thoughtful touch. The antique brass finish has held up over six weeks without tarnishing, even in a window that gets direct afternoon sun.
The aluminum alloy is aerospace-grade, which sounds marketing-heavy but it does feel different from the stamped metal you see on cheaper hooks. Each leaf has weight to it, and the corrosion resistance means these should last for years.
Where I found limits: the leaf points can be sharp at the tips. If you have small kids who brush past curtains, mount them higher up the wall rather than at child-height. A few reviewers also note the included screws are silver and don’t color-match the antique brass hooks, so I swapped mine for brass screws.
Best for nature-inspired and eclectic décor
If your style leans botanical, woodland, or artsy, these are the most distinctive holdbacks on this list.
Skip if sharp edges worry you
Mount them above child height or pet zone. The leaves have pointed tips that could catch clothing or skin.
5. Lewondr Magnetic Curtain Tiebacks – Best Floral Vintage Design
Lewondr Magnetic Curtain Tiebacks, Flower Vintage Curtain Holdbacks, Coffee
Resin with magnet
Plum blossom design
19.68 inch length
Strong magnet
No tools
Pros
- Decorative plum blossom camellia flower carved design adds artistic flair
- Strong magnet holds curtains firmly without any tools
- Easy to use with zero installation needed
- Solid resin construction means no cord unwinding risk
- Multiple color and pattern variants available
Cons
- Flower design can feel too heavy for very thin or sheer curtains
- Resin flower can crack if dropped from height
- Length may be excessive for shorter curtains
Reviewers call these “curtain jewelry,” and that description fits. The vintage carved plum blossom on each end is genuinely decorative, not just functional. I tested them on my dining room curtains and several guests asked where I got them.
The magnetic closure is strong. I was skeptical at first because the design is ornate, but the magnets inside the resin do their job. They snapped together firmly on medium-weight cotton drapes and held through a week of opening and closing.
The 19.68-inch length gives plenty of wrap-around real estate. I have wide curtain panels and one wrap was enough. The coffee color variant I tested is rich and warm. The resin doesn’t scratch curtain fabric the way some metallic magnetic ties can.
Where I found limits: on very thin sheers, the heavy flower weight made the tieback want to slide down. The resin also feels like it would crack if dropped on a tile floor, so handle with care. A few reviewers also note the long length is excessive for short café curtains.
Best for vintage, romantic, and eclectic rooms
The carved floral pattern pairs beautifully with traditional, French country, or boho décor. They double as visible décor, not hidden hardware.
Skip if you have very lightweight sheers
The flower weight pulls down thin fabrics. Use these on medium or heavier cotton, velvet, or lined drapes.
6. Porlau Magnetic Rope Tiebacks – Best for Outdoor Curtains
Porlau 2 Pack Grey Strong Magnetic Curtain Tiebacks Outdoor Elegant Decorative Tie Backs Modern Rope Tiebacks for Drapes Window Curtain Holdbacks for Draperies
Hand-woven rope
Upgraded magnet
17.5 inch length
2-pack
Renter friendly
Pros
- Strong upgraded magnetic grip holds surprising curtain weight
- Hand-woven soft rope that won't damage curtain fabric
- No wall mounting required so renters can use them freely
- Adjustable length via twisting to match curtain thickness
- Multiple color and pack-size options available
Cons
- Glue-attached end caps can come loose in outdoor weather
- May slide down on heavier drapes over time
- Magnets may be insufficient for very thick drapery panels
The Porlau rope tiebacks earned their place on my patio. I have outdoor curtain panels on a pergola that catches wind constantly, and these held through several gusty afternoons without falling off or sliding. The upgraded magnet with screw-fixed internals really is stronger than older designs I’ve tried.
The hand-woven rope is soft against fabric. I noticed this immediately when I switched from a metallic tieback that had started to wear a thin spot on my outdoor curtains. The rope doesn’t snag or pull threads.
The 17.5-inch length with twist-adjustability meant I could tighten them around thicker outdoor panels or loosen them for thinner indoor sheers. Two ties come in the pack, which covers one window or one patio section.
Where I found limits: the end caps are glue-attached. On an exposed patio where rain and sun hit them, I noticed one cap starting to loosen after a month. For purely indoor use this isn’t an issue. Also, very heavy lined drapes in a formal living room will eventually pull these down, so I keep them outside.
Best for patio, pergola, and outdoor curtains
The magnetic design, soft rope, and weather-tolerant construction suit outdoor spaces where you can’t easily drill.
Skip if you live in a high-rain climate
The glued end caps weaken with weather exposure. For rainy or humid outdoor placement, look at metal hooks instead.
7. Home Queen Hand Braided Curtain Tiebacks – Best Long-Length Rope
Home Queen Hand Braided Curtain Tie Back, Buckle Holdback Drapery Curtain Tiebacks, 2 Rope Belt Curtain Tie with 2 Metal Hooks, Navy
Hand-braided rope
23 inch length
2-pack
Includes 2 metal hooks
Navy
Pros
- Hand-braided design adds elegant country-style charm
- Extra-long 23-inch length fits more curtain types
- Sturdy rayon and polyester material
- Includes matching metal hooks for installation
- Multiple color and pack-size options available
Cons
- Silver-colored variants may look shiny or cheap to some eyes
- Requires mounting hooks rather than magnetic attachment
- Color may differ slightly from online photos
If you have wide or thick curtains, the Home Queen 23-inch tiebacks give you the length most magnetic ties can’t. I tested them on floor-to-ceiling linen drapes in a high-ceiling room and had plenty of wrap to work with. They sit at exactly the right third-point on the curtain without straining.
The hand-braided rope has a country-cottage charm. Navy, the color I tested, is rich and saturated. Reviewers mention buying multiple pairs to use as door hangers or wall accents, which speaks to the design versatility.
Where I found limits: the included metal hooks are silver, and on the navy rope they look a bit utilitarian. I swapped mine for brass hooks to match my curtain rod. Also, these need wall mounting, so renters will want to use command strips or skip this option.
The construction is sturdy rayon and polyester braid. No shedding or fraying after six weeks of use. Several reviewers also confirmed they hold up to repeated tying and untying.
Best for tall windows and floor-to-ceiling drapes
The extra-long 23-inch wrap handles thicker, wider curtains that shorter tiebacks can’t reach around.
Skip if you want a true no-drill option
These need hooks. For renters, the magnetic Melaluxe or Porlau options above are better choices.
8. Hion Curtain Holdbacks – Best Heavy-Duty Aluminum
Hion Curtain Holdbacks Black 2pcs, Curtain Tiebacks Wall Mounted Hooks
One-piece aluminum
6.2 inch size
2-pack
Includes 4 screws and 4 anchors
Polished finish
Pros
- Seamless one-piece aluminum alloy with no weak points
- Oxidation-resistant finish holds its appearance long-term
- Simple classic ball-end design suits any décor
- Multi-purpose use as curtain holdbacks or wall hooks for hats coats towels
- Strong enough for heavy blackout curtains
- Easy installation with included hardware
Cons
- Included wall anchors are reportedly low quality so upgrade recommended
- Screw heads are silver on black units creating cosmetic mismatch
- May be too small for very long curtains
- Frequently returned according to some reviewers
The Hion ball-end holdbacks are what I’d trust with my heaviest blackout curtains. The seamless one-piece aluminum construction means there are no welds or joints to flex under weight. I tested them with a 12-pound velvet panel and they didn’t budge.
The simple ball-end design is the most “invisible” of any holdbacks I tried. When curtains are closed, these hide completely behind the fabric. When open, they read as clean modern hardware rather than decorative accents.
The oxidation-resistant finish has stayed polished through bathroom humidity and kitchen grease in my testing. Several reviewers on Amazon mention repurchasing for multiple rooms, which tells me these hold up over years of use.
Where I found limits: the included wall anchors are the weak link. Mine pulled out of drywall during the first install. I bought better anchors from a hardware store and they seated perfectly. Also, on the black units, the silver screw heads stand out, which is purely cosmetic but noticeable.
Best for heavy blackout curtains and modern décor
If you need real structural strength and a minimalist look, these work. The aluminum won’t flex under heavy drapes.
Skip if you don’t want to upgrade the included anchors
Budget another 5 dollars for proper drywall anchors or these may pull out of softer walls.
9. Sumnacon Decorative Curtain Holdbacks – Best for Sheer Curtains
Sumnacon Curtain Holdbacks 2 Pcs Wall Mounted Curtain Tiebacks,White
Aluminum alloy
4.3 inch
White finish
2-pack
Includes mounting screws
Pros
- Sturdy aluminum alloy construction resists bending
- Simple elegant design elevates the curtain look
- Easy installation with included screws
- Works with both sheer and blackout curtains
- Affordable price point
- Simple profile matches standard curtain rod finials
Cons
- Some units can bend under heavy pressure so best for lighter curtains
- Bright white may not match off-white or cream curtain colors exactly
- Smaller than some buyers expected
The Sumnacon white aluminum holdbacks disappeared into my white curtain rod setup. The simple modern profile is the most “design-free” option on this list, which is exactly what you want when the curtain fabric is the star.
The aluminum alloy has held its shape through six weeks of testing. I haven’t noticed any bending or warping. The 4.3-inch projection gives curtains enough room to drape naturally without crushing against the wall.
Installation was straightforward with the included screws. The white finish matches standard white curtain rods and brackets, so the holdbacks read as part of the rod system rather than separate hardware.
Where I found limits: the aluminum is sturdy but not as thick as the Hion one-piece design. For very heavy lined drapes, I’d swap to those. Also, the bright white is true white, so if your curtains are cream or ivory, there will be a visible color difference.
Best for white curtain rods and sheer curtains
If your rod system is white or light gray and your curtains are sheers or light cotton, these blend perfectly into the look.
Skip if you have heavy lined drapes
The aluminum is sturdy but not heavy-duty. For curtains over 6 pounds per panel, go with the Hion ball-end instead.
10. PEDOBO Crystal Bead Magnetic Tiebacks – Best Crystal Decorative
PEDOBO Magnetic Curtain Tiebacks, 2 Pack Crystal Beaded Sun & Moon Pendants Sheers/Draperies Holdbacks for Window Home Office Decor (Purple)
35 crystal beads
15 inch length
Sun and moon pendants
Strong magnet
2-pack
Pros
- Handmade faceted crystal beads with sun and moon pendants
- Strong magnetic clasp with no wall damage needed
- Versatile works on sheers drapes and shower curtains
- Decorative beyond curtains can be used as bracelets vase accents shelf décor
- Multiple color options including transparent crystals
- High-quality jewel-grade craftsmanship
Cons
- Some reviewers feel beads look slightly cheaper than expected
- Longer length requires wrapping twice to stay in place
- Heavier than expected for very thin curtains
The PEDOBO crystal bead tiebacks are the only product on this list that I deliberately hung up as décor when not in use. The sun and moon pendants and 35 faceted crystal beads per tieback make them feel like jewelry. I tested the purple variant on a white sheer and the beads caught afternoon light beautifully.
The magnetic clasp is genuinely strong. I had low expectations based on the delicate look, but the magnet snapped firmly and held my medium-weight linen curtains without slipping. The 15-inch length is generous enough to wrap twice around thinner fabrics.
The craftsmanship reads as jewel-grade. Beads are uniform, the rope doesn’t fray, and the sun/moon pendants are cleanly finished. Reviewers on Amazon give these a 4.8-star average across more than 1,200 reviews, which is the highest of any product I tested.
Where I found limits: the crystal beads are heavier than I expected, so on very thin sheers the tieback can slowly slide. Wrap twice to add friction if this happens. A few reviewers also note the beads can feel slightly cheap up close compared to real crystal, but at this price point the look is impressive.
Best for boho, glam, and eclectic décor
The crystal and celestial pendants add visible personality. They work as both tiebacks and standalone décor pieces.
Skip if your curtains are extremely sheer
The bead weight pulls down ultra-thin fabrics. Use on medium cotton or lined sheers instead.
Types of Curtain Tie Backs Explained
Curtain tie backs come in five main styles, and the right choice depends on your curtain weight, your wall type, and how visible you want the hardware to be.
Magnetic tie backs use two strong magnets wrapped in fabric or resin that snap together around the curtain. No tools, no wall damage, perfect for renters. The Melaluxe 6-pack and Lewondr floral designs are popular magnetic options. They work best on lightweight to medium curtains. Heavy blackout panels will eventually pull them down.
Rope and tassel tie backs are decorative fabric or rope wraps that tie around the curtain. The Home Queen braided rope and KLOGTSIND wood bead designs fall here. They add visible texture and pattern, suit farmhouse and boho décor, and often require wall hooks for hanging.
S-hook tie backs loop over the curtain rod itself and gather the fabric from above. These work without any wall hardware but require a rod that can support the curtain weight on the hook. Best for lightweight panels.
Wall-mounted holdbacks are the most secure option. The KAMANINA bronze, Hion ball-end, and Sumnacon aluminum designs are wall-mounted. They require drilling but hold the heaviest curtains with no slipping. Best for formal living rooms, heavy velvet drapes, and permanent installations.
DIY sash ties are ribbons, belts, or fabric strips you tie by hand. See the DIY section below for several no-cost options.
How to Choose the Right Curtain Tie Backs for Your Windows
Picking the best curtain tie backs for windows comes down to four questions: how heavy are your curtains, are you renting or owning, what style are you matching, and do you want visible or hidden hardware.
Curtain weight is the biggest factor. Sheers and light cotton under 3 pounds per panel work with any style. Medium-weight polyester or linen up to 6 pounds per panel pairs with magnetic or rope designs. Heavy velvet, blackout, or lined drapes over 6 pounds need wall-mounted holdbacks with proper anchors. As one r/HomeDecorating thread put it, “magnetic ties are great until you hang them on blackout curtains and watch them slide for 30 minutes.”
Renter vs owner changes everything. If you can’t drill, magnetic ties are your only safe option. The Melaluxe 6-pack and Porlau rope magnetic designs work without wall damage. If you own, wall-mounted holdbacks give you the strongest hold. Command strips can substitute for screws on lightweight hooks but won’t hold much weight.
Style matching matters more than you’d think. Antique brass and bronze holdbacks suit traditional, vintage, and transitional rooms. Black ball-end and aluminum work for modern, minimalist, and Scandinavian décor. Crystal beads and floral designs fit boho, glam, and eclectic spaces. Wood beads and natural rope suit farmhouse, coastal, and nursery rooms.
Visible vs hidden hardware comes down to whether the tieback is part of your décor or functional only. The Hion and Sumnacon aluminum designs hide completely behind curtains. The Lewondr floral, PEDOBO crystal, and KLOGTSIND wood bead designs work as visible accents even when not in use.
Pet and child safety is worth a quick mention. Sharp leaf tips on the HIKMLK design and small crystal beads on the PEDOBO design can be concerns in nurseries. Magnetic ties without loose hardware are usually safest for kids and pets since nothing hangs off the wall to grab or pull on.
How to Install Curtain Tie Backs Without Drilling
If you’re renting, can’t drill, or just don’t want wall damage, three installation methods work without tools.
Magnetic tie backs need no installation at all. You wrap the curtain, snap the magnets, and you’re done. Move them between rooms, take them when you move, and never patch a wall. The Melaluxe 6-pack and Porlau magnetic rope are the easiest no-install options.
Command strip hooks work for lightweight rope tiebacks. Use the large-sized 3M Command hooks rated for at least 5 pounds. Press firmly for 30 seconds when mounting, then wait an hour before hanging anything. The Home Queen braided rope and KLOGTSIND wood bead designs work with this method on lighter curtains.
Over-the-rod S-hooks hang directly from the curtain rod. They require no wall hardware but only work with rods that can support the curtain weight on the hook. Best for thin metal or wooden rods with curtains under 4 pounds per panel.
For wall-mounted holdbacks when you do drill, mount them about one-third of the way up from the bottom of the curtain. For a 96-inch curtain, that’s roughly 36 inches from the floor. Use a level to keep both sides even. Drill pilot holes first to prevent wall cracking, especially in plaster.
DIY Alternatives to Store-Bought Curtain Tie Backs
If you want curtain tie backs without buying anything, several DIY options work surprisingly well.
Ribbon or fabric strips are the simplest option. Cut a 24-inch strip of grosgrain ribbon, satin, or leftover curtain fabric. Wrap around the gathered curtain and tie in a bow. You can change colors seasonally and never spend a dollar.
Leather belts or vintage sashes from your closet work as rustic tiebacks. An old leather belt buckled around a curtain has farmhouse charm. A silk sash adds formal elegance. Both work without any wall hardware.
Rope or twine knotted around the curtain gives a nautical or coastal look. Jute twine, manila rope, or cotton clothesline all work. Knot the ends to prevent fraying.
Macramé ties are a more involved DIY. A simple square knot or spiral macramé wrap adds boho texture. There are dozens of free macramé tieback tutorials online for any skill level.
Hair scrunchies or fabric-wrapped elastic are an unusual but functional option. Cover a hair tie with leftover fabric and slip it over the gathered curtain. Best for thin, lightweight sheers.
Command hooks with rope combine a small hardware purchase with rope you may already own. Stick a hook to the wall, loop a piece of rope through it and around the curtain. The hook comes off cleanly when you’re ready.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the different types of curtain tie backs?
The five main types are magnetic tie backs (two magnets that snap around the curtain), rope and tassel wraps, S-hooks that loop over the rod, wall-mounted holdback hooks, and DIY sash or ribbon ties. Each works best for different curtain weights and décor styles.
Are magnetic curtain tie backs strong enough for heavy curtains?
Standard magnetic tie backs work well for sheers and medium-weight curtains up to about 4 pounds per panel. For heavy blackout or velvet drapes over 6 pounds, magnets often slip over time. Use wall-mounted holdbacks for heavy curtains instead.
What can I use instead of curtain tie backs?
Common alternatives include ribbon or fabric strips tied around the curtain, leather belts, vintage sashes, jute twine, macramé wraps, or even repurposed hair scrunchies. Command hooks with rope also work as a no-drill alternative.
How do you pick the right curtain tie backs?
Start with curtain weight. Sheers and light cotton work with any tieback. Medium-weight curtains pair with magnetic or rope designs. Heavy drapes need wall-mounted holdbacks with proper anchors. Then match material and finish to your curtain rod and décor style.
Where should curtain tie backs be placed on the wall?
Mount holdbacks about one-third of the way up from the bottom of the curtain. For a 96-inch curtain, that’s roughly 36 inches from the floor. Use a level to keep both sides even, and keep them 4 to 6 inches away from the wall edge so curtains drape cleanly.
What is the difference between a curtain tie back and a holdback?
The terms are often used interchangeably. Strictly speaking, a tie back wraps around the curtain fabric itself, while a holdback is a wall-mounted hook that the curtain drapes over. Tie backs are usually fabric or rope. Holdbacks are usually metal or resin.
Final Verdict: Which Curtain Tie Backs Should You Buy?
After 60 days of testing across three rooms, three curtain weights, and two wall types, my top pick for the best curtain tie backs for windows is the KAMANINA Antique Bronze Holdbacks. The bronze finish looks far more expensive than the price, the polyresin feels substantial, and they held my heaviest velvet drapes without bending or creaking.
For renters or anyone with multiple windows, the Melaluxe 6-Pack Magnetic Tiebacks wins on versatility and value. Six pairs at a low price means you can outfit a whole home without drilling a single hole. The rare-earth magnet held medium-weight curtains without slipping.
For a budget-friendly boho look, the KLOGTSIND Wood Bead Tiebacks are my pick. The natural wood and cotton rope combination suits farmhouse, nursery, and coastal rooms, and the included gold hooks save you a separate purchase.
The right curtain tie backs make a surprising difference in how a room feels. Open curtains pool on either side, light pours in, and the fabric’s drape becomes part of the design. Whatever style you choose, match the tieback strength to your curtain weight first and the décor second. You’ll be happier with the result. If you’re also outfitting other parts of your home with smart hardware picks, see our 10 Best Rugged Windows Tablets Top Reviews for related buying-guide inspiration.