Window dressings play a crucial role in elevating the ambience of a home. The perfect fit is essential in creating a luxurious and sophisticated look with your curtains. Undersized curtains will not display a premium fabric to its fullest potential, while curtains that fall short can appear outdated. Whether your curtains are designed to provide complete privacy and coziness during the night or to delicately diffuse light throughout the day, or simply serve as decorative accents to frame your window, the right fit is crucial in elevating the overall aesthetic of your space.
Curtains are available in standard lengths, of course, but our guide applies to made-to-measure curtains. Consider this a curtain measurement tool to bookmark. If you need some tips on how to accurately measure for curtains like a professional, then read on.
Measuring Curtains Size for Standard-Sized Windows
The most important thing to consider when measuring curtains for standard window sizes is the width of your window. The wider the cloth, the more drapery your curtain needs to be to hang properly.
The length measurement is important because it tells you how far your curtain needs to extend past your windowsill and out into space. If you want a longer drape beyond your windowsill, add four inches per foot on either side of where you measure from each side.
The width measurement is also important because it tells you how much fabric will hang off each side of your curtains and over your windowsill and across the floor behind them.
Measuring Curtains for Non-standard Sized Windows
While it may be daunting to accurately measure your non-standard-sized windows for your window treatments, a discerning eye is all you need. One way to go about it is to measure the width of the curtain fabric and then cut it to fit the window. This is probably the most common method, but it can be tricky to get right if you're not used to dealing with fabric. You also must remember that your measurements will need adjusting when you make up your pattern later, so it's best to make them accurately from the start.
Curtains Measurement for Sliding Glass Doors
The first step in measuring curtains for sliding glass doors is to measure the width of your frame. Measure the inside of your door frame at one end, then mark it on all sides with a pen or pencil.
Next, measure from one side of the curtain to another on both sides of the frame. This will give you an idea of how much fabric you'll need for each side. For example, if you're planning to have three panels, you'll need to buy enough fabric for three panels plus some extra for seams and hemming.
Measuring Length for Ceiling Mounted Curtains
If you are looking to hang ceiling curtains, there are a few things that need to be considered. First, the type of curtain rod used. One of the most common types of rods is a swivel rod. The other type of rod is known as an extension rod, and these come in two varieties: one with a swivel end and one without.
The next step is to decide how wide your window will be when it's hung up with your new curtain rod. This will help determine how long your curtain will be so that it will fit properly on your window.
Measurement for Floor Length Curtains
When it comes to how the curtains should hit the floor, there are three styles to choose from. Hover, the most common way to hang floor-length curtains since it looks clean and elegant, and it makes opening and closing them easy. Break, designers refer to curtain panels having a one-inch break which means that instead of hovering above the ground, you'll need to add one inch to your curtain length measurement. This look has a high-end designer feel yet doesn't feel stuffy or too formal. And finally, Puddle, the puddle look allows for a more relaxed, romantic and softer feel and refers to up to six inches of fabric being on the floor and creating an actual "puddle".
Measuring for Custom-Made Curtains
Made-to-measure curtains are designed by a professional who understands the guidelines of the curtain fabric. We highly recommend investing in custom curtains over standard length curtains for any room. Custom-made curtains offer far more value than their standard counterparts, including a perfectly tailored length to fit your space, even if your floor is uneven.
With the help of a designer, you can select a print or pattern that complements the size of your curtains and enhances the overall look of your room. Window treatments can be a significant investment for your home, and you want to make sure to get it right.
FAQs on Curtains Measurement
1. What is the best way to measure curtains?
The hallmark of accurately measuring curtains lies in precision, which is why we recommend using a steel tape measure over a fabric counterpart that may stretch and compromise the accuracy of your measurements.
2. How do I calculate how many curtains I need?
You can calculate how many curtains you need by dividing the length of your windows and doors by half. For example, if you have 10ft windows and 6ft doors, then you will need 2.5m curtains.
3. How do interior designers measure curtains?
When measuring for curtains with an interior designer's touch, accuracy is of utmost importance. Always take multiple measurements of the length to account for any variations in the flooring level.
4. What order are the measurements for curtains?
First, all curtain panels must be hung in one direction. Then, by supplying only two measurements (one for each side), we can find the length of the panel. Finally, we add up all the numbers to find how long it will be.
5. Do curtains have to touch the floor?
Floor-length curtains are an elegant choice for the living room, while curtains that gracefully drape onto the floor are the perfect addition to a formal dining room or bedroom. However, it is important to note that curtains that puddle on the floor may prove difficult to open and close and are best suited for simply dressing windows rather than providing privacy. They also require a bit of extra maintenance to keep them looking their best.
