Expert Guide: How to Measure for Curtains

Introduction: Measuring for curtains accurately is crucial for achieving a perfect fit and enhancing the look of your room. At Finishing Touches SA, we provide a simple step-by-step guide to help you measure for curtain poles and tracks, ensuring your curtains fit beautifully.

Measuring the Width:

Why Accurate Width Measurements Matter: Accurately measuring the width for your curtains is essential for several reasons:

1. Ensures Proper Fit: Curtains that are too narrow won’t cover the window adequately, while those that are too wide can look bulky and awkward. Accurate measurements ensure your curtains hang correctly and cover the window perfectly, enhancing both functionality and aesthetics​.
2. Achieves Desired Fullness: The width measurement determines how full your curtains will look when closed. For a luxurious, full appearance, curtains generally need to be 1.5 to 3 times the width of the window. This fullness adds elegance and prevents the curtains from looking flat and sparse​.
3. Maximizes Light Control and Privacy: Curtains that are the correct width will effectively block out light and provide privacy. For blackout curtains, extending the rod 8-10 inches beyond the window frame on each side ensures no light escapes through the edges​​.

How to Measure the Width:

1. Curtain Poles:
   • Measure the length of the pole between the finials (decorative ends).
   • If fitting a new pole, ensure it extends 15-20 cm beyond each side of the window to allow curtains to stack properly.
2. Curtain Rails:
   • Measure the length of the rail. For rails with an overlap in the center, add this overlap to your measurement.

Measuring the Drop:

Step-by-Step Guide to Measuring the Drop:

• The length of your curtains depends on your preference. Common measurements are:
  • Full Length: 1.5 to 3 cm above the floor.
  • Above Radiator: 1 to 3 cm above the radiator.
  • Below Window Sill: Typically around 15 cm below the sill.
  • Floor-Length Consideration: Leave a small gap at the bottom to prevent the curtains from touching the floor and getting marked.

Curtain Styles and Measuring Techniques:

Tab Top & Eyelet Curtains:

• Measure from the top of the curtain pole.

Pencil & Pinch Pleat:

• Measure from the top of the track or the bottom of the curtain rings to the desired length.

Wave Curtains:

• Measure from the bottom of the track to where you would like the curtains to finish, ideally 1-2 cm from the floor for a polished look.

Fullness or Gathering: Different curtain headings require varying amounts of fabric for fullness:

• Pencil Pleat: 1.75 times the width of the pole/track.
• Pinch Pleat: 2.25 times the width.
• Wave Pleat: 2.0 times the width.
• Tab Top and Eyelet: 1.5 times the width.

Example Calculation for Pencil Pleat Curtains: For a track/pole width of 200 cm:

• Required fabric width = 200 cm x 1.75 = 350 cm.
• Each panel width (for a pair of curtains) = 175 cm.

Accurate measurements ensure your curtains fit perfectly and enhance your room’s aesthetic. At Finishing Touches SA, we offer a wide range of custom-made curtains to suit your style. Use our guide to measure accurately and achieve stunning results.

Ready to order your perfect curtains? Visit Finishing Touches SA today for a wide selection of beautiful, custom-made curtains. Transform your space with precision and style!

Here’s a detailed step-by-step illustration showing how to measure for curtains, focusing on measuring the width and drop accurately.

This illustration helps visualize the process, ensuring you measure correctly for a perfect fit