How to Measure for Curtains

Simple Steps to measure your windows ready to install your curtains

Step 1 – Set up your hardware first

Affix the track or pole before taking your measurements.
Then calculate the required width and length (drop) based on your chosen curtain style.
Always use a steel tape measure for accuracy rather than a soft fabric tape.
The track or pole should extend beyond the window at either side to allow room for the curtains to be drawn back off the window when they are open.
We would usually recommend approx 25cm but this all depends on how much space you have and how far you would like the curtains to be off the window.
Always use a metal tape measure as cloth or plastic ones can stretch.
We can accept measurements in centimetres or inches but please make sure all measurements are either one or the other!

Step 2 – Curtain Width – do not measure the window width

Track – measure the track from end to end. If the track overlaps in the middle, you must include the overlap.
Pole – measure the pole between the finials.
Add fullness multiplier for gathers

Measure the rod length: Measure the pole or track between the decorative end finials (excluding the finials themselves).
Calculate curtain fullness: To create proper folds when closed, multiply your total rod width by the fullness factor:

Standard gather (pencil pleat, grommet, eyelet): Rod width × 1.5 to 2
Full gather (pinch pleat, heavy drape): Rod width × 2 to 2.5Note: If buying pre-made curtain pairs, the combined width of both panels should equal this total calculated width.

Step 3 – Curtain Length – do not measure the window length

Identify your measurement starting point based on hardware:

Eyelet / Grommet curtains: Measure from the very top of the pole down to your desired finish line (add 1.5 inches above the pipe for the fabric header above the rings).
Curtain rings on a pole: Measure from the bottom eye/ring where the hook attaches.
Curtain track: Measure from the top of the track to cover the hardware completely.

Select your finish point:

• Sill length: Finish 0.5 inches (1.5 cm) above the window sill.
• Below sill: Finish 4–6 inches (10–15 cm) below the sill.
• Floor length: Finish 0.5 to 1 inch (1.2–2.5 cm) above the floor so curtains hang cleanly without dragging.

Our friendly and expert team are always on hand to help you create bespoke curtains and blinds, curtain rails, runners, tie-backs and more
Pop into our Furnishings Barn or simply email us with any questions.