Step-by-step Guide to Measuring for Curtains
Materials Needed
• Tape measure
• Pen and paper
• Ladder (if necessary)
Step 1: Measure Your Window Width
For a Pole:
Measure the entire width of the pole, from the outer edge of one end to the outer edge of the other end.
Exclude the finials (decorative end pieces) from your measurement.
For a Track:
Measure the total width of the track, from end to end.
Step 2: Choose Your Curtain Heading
Suitable for both tracks or poles.
Suitable for poles only.
Suitable for wave tracks only.
Suitable for metal poles only.
Step 3: Measure Your Finished Curtain Length
Where to start this measurement depends on the curtain heading style you have chosen:
Pencil Pleat:
Track: Measure from the top of the track down to where you would like your curtains to finish.
Pole: Measure from the underside of the pole (ignoring the rings) down to where you would like your curtains to finish.
Double Pinch Pleat:
Pole: Measure from the underside of the pole (ignoring the rings) down to where you would like your curtains to finish.
Wave:
Track: Measure from the bottom of the track down to where you would like your curtains to finish.
Eyelet:
Pole: Measure from the top of the pole down to where you would like your curtains to finish.
Note: For eyelet curtains, a metal pole with a maximum diameter of 29mm is recommended.
Step 4: Decide Where Your Curtains Will Finish
There are several options for curtain lengths:
Window Sill:
Measure down to just touching the sill, this is a great option when you are mounting the track inside the window recess, also great for windows with a radiator underneath.
Below the Window Sill:
Measure 15-20 cm (6-8 inches) below the sill, but 5 cm (2 inches) above a radiator if there is one.
To the Floor:
Measure down to just touch the floor, we would recommend that curtains on a hard floor such as tiles or wood should just hover slightly.
‘Breaking’ on the Floor:
Add 1.5 cm (0.5 inches) to the floor length measurement to create a slight kink at the bottom of the curtains.
‘Pooling’ on the Floor:
Add 2.5 cm (1 inch) or more to the floor length measurement, depending on the desired effect. Please note that pooled curtains will require adequate dressing every time they are used to create a stylish finish.
Note: If your chosen flooring is not yet installed, this will affect the finished length of your curtains. We recommend that both the pole or track, and finished floor are in situ prior to ordering curtains.
Recording Your Measurements
Double-check all measurements for accuracy, and note them down ready to place an order from your chosen fabrics product page.
By following these steps, you will obtain accurate measurements for your bespoke curtains, don’t forget to check these measurement and our calculations with your maker prior to orders fabrics. If you have any questions or require further assistance, please contact our customer service team.
