How to Measure for Curtains
Selecting the correct curtain size is crucial for achieving the desired functionality and aesthetic appeal in any commercial or residential setting. Proper measurements ensure that curtains not only fit the intended space but also meet the operational requirements, whether for privacy, light control, or enhancing the room's decor. This guide provides a straightforward approach to measuring curtains, ensuring that businesses can make informed decisions when purchasing.
How to Measure for Curtains
What You Will Need
Steel Tape Measure
Step Ladder (if necessary)
Pencil
Helpful Hints Before Measuring Windows for Curtains
Use a steel tape measure for accuracy.
Record dimensions as width by height (W x H).
Measure to the nearest 1/8 inch, avoid rounding.
Measure each window individually, even if they appear similar.
Step 1: Determine Curtain Rod Placement
No doubt increasing the distance between the curtain rod and the window can make the room appear larger. For 8-foot ceilings, position the curtain rod close to the ceiling or slightly below any crown molding. With taller ceilings, install the rod 12 to 14 inches above the window. To enhance the perception of window size, mount the rod about 6 inches above the window, extending it roughly 6 inches on either side, totaling 12 inches of extension. This approach influences the drape's length and style, creating a more spacious appearance when closed and revealing more windows when open.
Step 2: Determine the Curtain's Desired Width
Select the width that each curtain panel should cover. Opt for either decorative side panels or full-coverage panels for more privacy. Custom drapes are crafted with 200% to 300% fullness, meaning a 24” wide order results in a drape made from at least 48” of fabric, pleated to achieve the final width, enhancing texture and fullness.
For side panels, which are more decorative and provide less privacy, measure the desired coverage width directly. For full coverage, calculate the total width needed by adding 12 inches to the window's width to account for an extended drape on either side, then divide by the number of panels to determine the width of each. For example, a 48” window would require two panels, each at least 30” wide, to ensure complete coverage.
Step 3: Determine the Curtain's Desired Length
The length of the curtains depends on how you want them to interact with the floor, with several options available:
Kiss: For curtains that just touch the floor, measure the distance from the rod to the floor exactly.
Float: For a floating effect, with curtains hovering slightly above the floor, subtract 3/8 to 1/2 inch from the floor-to-rod measurement.
Puddle: For a more formal look with fabric puddling on the floor, add 6 to 16 inches to the length measurement.
Break Puddle: For a slight puddle where curtains touch and slightly break on the floor, add 1/2 to 1 inch to the length. This offers a balance between formality and practicality.
Step 4: Select the Curtain's Heading Style
The heading style of your curtains affects both their appearance and the way they hang. Consider these styles and how they impact measurement:
Grommets
Measure from the top of the grommet to where you want the curtain to end near the floor.
Tabs
Measure from the top of the tab to the desired endpoint above the floor.
Rod Pocket
No additional length is needed beyond the desired drop from the rod to the floor.
Pleated Curtains
Measure from the bottom of the ring or hook on the rod to the desired length at the floor.
FAQs
1、How wide should curtains be for a window?
Curtains should be 2 to 2.5 times the width of the window for proper fullness. This ensures they will look ample and drape correctly when closed.
2、Should curtain width be per panel or pair?
The width measurement should be per panel. Each curtain in a pair should have its width measured individually to ensure they cover the window adequately when drawn together.
3、Is it better for curtains to be too long or too short?
It is generally better for curtains to be too long rather than too short. Long curtains can be hemmed or adjusted to achieve the perfect length, whereas short curtains cannot be lengthened and may not provide adequate coverage or the desired aesthetic.
4、How do I choose the right curtain length for my space?
Consider the desired effect: 'kiss' for a neat look with curtains just touching the floor, 'float' to have them slightly above the floor, 'puddle' for a more dramatic, formal look with excess fabric on the floor, or 'break puddle' for a slight gather at the floor.
5、What does 'fullness' mean in curtain measurements?
Fullness refers to the extra fabric used to create gathers or pleats in the curtain, giving it volume. Typically, curtains are made 200% to 300% fuller than the actual window width to achieve a rich, draped appearance.
6、Can I use the same size curtains for every window in my room?
It's best to measure each window individually, even if they seem similar. Slight differences in window sizes can affect how curtains fit and look, so accurate, separate measurements are crucial.
7、Why is the type of curtain header important in measuring for curtains?
The curtain header affects how the curtain hangs and its overall length. For example, grommet headers require measuring from the top of the grommet, while pleated curtains are measured from the bottom of the ring or hook.
8、How does mounting the curtain rod affect curtain length?
The placement of the rod can significantly impact the curtain length. Mounting the rod higher than the window can make the ceiling appear taller and the space larger, which requires longer curtains to reach the floor.
