I've spent more time than I'd like to admit staring at droopy curtains that just hang there doing nothing. If that sounds familiar, curtain tie backs are what you need.
In this article, I'm covering 21 curtain tie back ideas from simple twine to upcycled jewelry.
I've tested and tried many of these myself, so I know what works and what just looks good in photos.
You'll find options for every style: farmhouse, boho, modern, coastal, and more.
I'll also share styling tips at the end to help you get the most out of whichever idea you pick.
Let's get into it.
What Are Curtain Tie Backs and Why Use Them?
Curtain tie backs hold your curtains open to let in light and frame your windows. They can be hooks, fabric loops, rope, or anything that keeps the fabric in place.
People use them to make a room feel more open and put-together without spending much. A small detail like this changes how a whole wall looks.
21 Curtain Tie Back Ideas to Lift Your Window Decor
Here's Curtain Tie Back Ideas to Lift Your Window Decor.
1. Twine Curtain Tie Backs for a Simple Farmhouse Look
Twine is cheap and easy to find. Wrap a few strands together, tie them around your curtain, and you've got a clean farmhouse look.
It works especially well with linen or cotton curtains in neutral tones.
2. Braided Rope Tie Backs for Coastal-Inspired Spaces
Thick braided rope gives off a relaxed, beachy feel. I like using natural jute rope for this. Tie it in a simple knot or loop it through a wall hook.
It looks intentional without being overdone.
3. Tassel Curtain Tie Backs for Classic Style
Tassels are one of the most popular tie back options for good reason. They come in dozens of colors and sizes.
You can buy them at any home goods store or make your own with yarn. They work well on heavier curtains.
4. Leather Cord Tie Backs for Rustic Spaces
A thin strip of leather wrapped around curtain fabric looks clean and earthy. It suits darker curtains in living rooms or home offices.
You can punch a hole in the end and use a small brass hook to hold it in place.
5. Repurposed Belt Tie Backs for a Vintage Touch
Old leather belts make great tie backs. Just wrap the belt around the curtain and buckle it. This is one of my favorite DIY ideas because it costs nothing and looks like something you'd see in a shop.
6. Decorative Chain Tie Backs for Modern Interiors
Metal chain tie backs give a sharp, modern finish. Use matte black or brushed nickel chains for a sleek effect. They hold heavy curtains well and don't stretch over time like fabric options.
7. Gold Chain Curtain Tie Backs for Glamorous Styling
Gold chain tie backs are a step up from standard options. Drape a medium-weight gold chain across the curtain and hook each end to the wall. It draws the eye without being too much.
8. Beaded Tie Backs for a Boho-Chic Look
Beaded tie backs made from wood, shell, or glass beads give a relaxed, layered feel. I've made these by stringing beads onto wire and shaping them into loops.
They're easy to customize based on your color palette.
9. Necklace Curtain Tie Backs Using Upcycled Jewelry
Old necklaces you no longer wear can work perfectly as tie backs. Long chain necklaces work best. Just hook them around the curtain and let them hang naturally.
This is a great way to reuse jewelry that's been sitting in a drawer.
10. Bracelet and Cuff Tie Backs for Creative DIY Decor
Wide metal cuffs or stiff bracelets can slip around a section of curtain fabric and hold it in place. It's a quirky idea, but it works. Best suited for lighter fabric panels.
11. Glass Doorknob Holdbacks for Timeless Appeal
Glass doorknob holdbacks are wall-mounted. You screw them into the wall and wrap the curtain around them. They come in many styles — clear, frosted, colored. They look like they've always been there.
12. Magnetic Curtain Tie Backs for a Sleek, Modern Finish
Magnetic tie backs use two strong magnets to grip the curtain from both sides. No hooks, no knots. They're easy to adjust and work well in kids' rooms or anywhere you want a clean, minimal look.
13. Crystal and Geode Holdbacks for Luxurious Interiors
Geode or crystal holdbacks are wall-mounted pieces with a raw, natural look. They work in spaces that mix natural textures with refined finishes.
Amethyst and quartz options are the most popular.
14. Floral Curtain Tie Backs for Spring-Inspired Decor
Fabric or dried flowers attached to a rope or wire make great seasonal tie backs. I like using preserved eucalyptus or dried lavender for a soft, natural look.
You can swap them out with the seasons.
15. Shell and Rope Tie Backs for Coastal Summer Vibes
Shells threaded onto rope or jute give a beachy, summer feel. Collect shells from a trip or buy them in bulk. Tie them into loops with a few knots to add texture.
Great for bathrooms and reading nooks.
16. Pinecone and Twig Tie Backs for Cozy Fall Decor
For fall, gather small pinecones and bind them together with wire or twine. Pair with a stick or twig for an earthy, seasonal look. These are fun to make with kids too.
17. Holiday-Themed Curtain Tie Backs for Winter Styling
Small ornaments, bells, or ribbon loops work well as holiday tie backs. You can swap these in just for December and store them away after.
They add a festive touch to any room without going overboard.
18. Fabric Tie Backs for Soft and Coordinated Window Treatments
Cut a strip of fabric that matches or contrasts your curtains. Fold it, sew the edges, and tie it around the panel.
This is one of the most budget-friendly options and it looks pulled together.
19. Teacup Curtain Holdbacks for Cottagecore Style
Teacup curtain holdbacks in a cottagecore-inspired room
Mount a teacup or small mug to the wall using a bracket. Loop the curtain around it. It sounds unusual, but it photographs beautifully and fits cottage or vintage-style rooms perfectly.
20. Crown and Character Tie Backs for Kids' Rooms
Novelty tie backs shaped like crowns, stars, animals, or cartoon characters are made for kids' rooms. They're usually plastic or resin.
Kids love them, and they're easy to find online or at craft stores.
21. Layered Multiple Tie Backs for a Designer Look
Instead of one tie back, use two or three at different heights. This creates a layered, draped effect that looks intentional and collected.
Mix materials like rope with metal rings for an interesting layered finish.
Styling Tips to Make Curtain Tie Backs Stand Out
Here are a few things I've learned from styling curtains in different rooms:
- Place the tie back at about two-thirds of the curtain height for the most flattering drape.
- Match your tie back material to other textures in the room: rope with wood furniture, metal with modern fixtures.
- For sheer curtains, go with lighter tie backs like fabric strips or thin chains.
- Heavy velvet or blackout curtains need sturdy options like metal holdbacks or leather cord.
- Seasonal swaps are easy: keep a few sets and change them out to freshen the room without redecorating.
- If your wall color is neutral, use a tie back with a pop of color to create contrast.
- Don't overthink the placement, try a few positions before you commit to drilling a hook.
Conclusion
Curtain tie backs are one of those small details that make a real difference in how a room feels.
I started paying attention to them after realizing my curtains looked flat and uninviting no matter how nice the fabric was.
Once I added tie backs, the whole window area came to life.
You don't need to spend a lot. A strip of leather, an old necklace, or a piece of rope can do the job.
The 21 curtain tie back ideas in this post cover every style and budget. Try one and see what fits your space best.
Which curtain tie back idea are you most excited to try first?
Frequently Asked Questions
What material works best for curtain tie backs?
It depends on your curtain weight. Rope and metal work for heavier fabrics, while fabric strips and chains suit lighter panels.
Can I make curtain tie backs at home?
Yes, many options like twine, fabric strips, and upcycled jewelry are easy DIY projects that cost very little.
How high should I place a curtain tie back on the wall?
Place it at about two-thirds of the curtain's total length from the top for the most balanced look.
Are magnetic curtain tie backs strong enough?
Most magnetic tie backs work well for light to medium curtains. For heavy drapes, opt for wall-mounted holdbacks instead.
How do I keep curtain tie backs from slipping?
Use a wall hook or holdback bracket to anchor the tie back in place so the curtain stays put throughout the day.
