How to Measure for Curtains - Step by Step Guide

Measuring for curtains is a simple task, but only if you know how. Our step-by-step guide will show you how to get all the right measurements correctly. We've also included tips, advice, and things to consider when measuring. curtains. For example, how much "gather" you want.

How to Measure for Curtains: Tips: You need to select and adjust your rail or pole (or curtain wire for nets), before taking measurements for your curtains length. (You may not always be able to fit your rail or post to the exact height you want (for example, when trying to drill through a concrete lintel). When measuring curtains, always use a steel tape to take your measurements. (fabric or plastic tape measures tend to stretch over time and may give a false reading). Every measurement you take, write it down. Step 1: Measure for a new curtain rod or track

(Please skip this step if there is a post or track you intend to use.)

First we need to measure the inside width of the window recess. (Measurement A)

Next, decide how far your curtains will extend past the wall, on each side of the window. This should normally be around 20cm (8 inches) on each side and allows the curtains to open wider, allowing more daylight to enter the room. (Measurement B)

Now add A + B + B. This will give us the length of track or post needed (C), excluding endgames.

Step 2: Measure the width of the curtains

(If you skipped step 1, measure your track/mast (excluding final), this will give you the measurement (C).)

When measuring the width of the curtains, it is important to take into account the "gathering".

To have curtains with a medium gather when closed, we take our track/pole measurement (C), multiply it by 1.5 and then divide by 2. The result is the required width of each curtain.

For curtains with full/normal gathers when closed, measurement C would be the required width of each curtain.

If you want a thick gather, multiply measurement C by 2.5 then divide by 2. Again, the result is the required width of each curtain.

Ok, we have now established the width of our curtains. Here is how we calculate the length.

Step 3: Measure the drapes drop/length

Before we can measure curtain length, we need to decide whether our curtains will fall over the ledge, under the ledge, or on the floor.

– Sill length curtains usually end 1/2 inch (1.25 cm) above the sill.

– Curtains that fall below the sill usually end 15cm (6 inches) below. This, of course, can be adjusted to your personal preference.

– For floor length curtains, you must leave a 1 inch (2.5 cm) gap to avoid dragging.

(Click on the image to enlarge)

Now, with your rail/post installed 15-20cm (6-8 inches) above the window recess, measure from the top edge of the rail/post to the finished length you have chosen.

For flap curtains and all types of pleated curtains, write down your measurement. edge of the curtain). Step 4: Important!

Sit back and relax with your favorite drink!

Well… maybe you could put away your stepladder and duct tape first… I leave the choice to you.

Measure for ready made curtains

When measuring curtains and intending to purchase ready-made curtains, there are a few things to consider.

Ready-made curtains are only available in certain sizes. You may need to shorten them, which will increase the overall cost. The sizes listed on the package are approximate measurements, NOT exact. The quality of the fabric can often be rather poor. .Especially when buying at deeply discounted prices.

Here is a list of the most common sizes available. The first number given is always the width. So 117 x 137 cm curtains would be 117 cm wide and 137 cm long. of buying ready-made curtains, the sizes given are approximate.

Measure for custom curtains

Measure yourself to get custom curtains..?– Did you know that some of the smaller independent curtain makers will make curtains from the fabric you supply..?– It can be much more cost effective. You can choose the exact fabric you want, at a price that's right for you. Department stores (I won't name them but you can probably think of a few.) ask you to choose from their selection of fabrics. It's not always a bad thing, but you can't hunt for the best price and you're limited to what they have in stock.

To help you determine the amount of fabric needed for custom made curtains, we have created a 'Curtain Fabric Calculator'. A useful little gadget that can use your measurements to calculate the amount of fabric needed to make your curtains.

Comments welcome!

If you found our 'Measurement for Curtains' guide helpful, or if you think of anything we missed, please let us know. We appreciate your feedback!