Choosing the right drapes and curtains is essential to enhance the look of any room. However, for a professional and polished appearance, accurate measurements are key. This detailed guide will walk you through the process of measuring your windows, ensuring that your drapes or curtains fit perfectly.
Tools You’ll Need:
- Measuring tape (preferably metal for accuracy)
- Step stool (if necessary)
- Pen and paper or a notes app
- Calculator (for conversions)
Step 1: Understand Your Curtain Style and Function
Before you begin measuring, you need to decide on the style and function of your curtains or drapes. The measurements will vary depending on how you want the curtains to hang:
- Functional curtains: Used to block out light or add privacy.
- Decorative curtains: Hang on the sides and are mostly decorative.
- Full-length drapes: Typically cover the entire window and extend to the floor.
You will also need to consider the heading style:
- Grommet: Requires additional length for the rings and space above the rod.
- Rod pocket: Often requires less space above the rod but might need adjustments for desired fullness.
Step 2: Measure the Window Width
The width of your window will determine how wide your curtains need to be. To get the right fit:
- Measure the Window Frame: Use the measuring tape to measure from one side of the window frame to the other. This is the window width.
- Tip: Make sure to measure from the outer edges of the window frame, as curtains usually cover the entire frame.
- Determine Curtain Fullness: Curtains should be wider than the window to allow for fullness (folds and pleats). Typically, the width should be 2 to 3 times the width of the window, depending on how full you want the drapes to look.
| Window Width | Curtain Width (2x Fullness) | Curtain Width (3x Fullness) |
| 36 inches | 72 inches | 108 inches |
| 48 inches | 96 inches | 144 inches |
| 60 inches | 120 inches | 180 inches |
Step 3: Measure the Curtain Rod Placement
- Determine Rod Length: The curtain rod should extend beyond the window frame on both sides. Typically, rods extend 4 to 6 inches on each side for a balanced look and to allow the curtains to fully cover the window when closed.
- Decide on the Mounting Height: Curtains are often mounted above the window frame. The higher the rod, the taller and more dramatic the room will appear.
- Tip: As a general rule, mount the rod 4-6 inches above the window frame for standard rooms. For a more formal look, you can mount the rod closer to the ceiling (8-12 inches above).
- For tall, dramatic looks: Install the rod 10-12 inches above the window frame.
- For a standard appearance: Install the rod 4-6 inches above the window.
Step 4: Measure the Length for Drapes or Curtains
Next, decide how long you want your curtains to be. Depending on the style you prefer, curtains can fall in different ways:
- Sill length: Curtains fall just above or to the window sill. Best for kitchen or bathroom windows.
- Apron length: Curtains extend 4-6 inches below the window sill.
- Floor length: Curtains just skim the floor, giving a formal and elongated look.
- Puddle length: Curtains extend beyond the floor by 1-3 inches for a more dramatic, luxurious look.
- Measure from the Rod to the Desired Length:
- For sill length, measure from the rod to 1 inch above the sill.
- For apron length, measure from the rod to 4-6 inches below the sill.
- For floor-length drapes, measure from the rod to the floor.
- For puddle-length drapes, measure from the rod to 1-3 inches past the floor.
- Tip: Remember to account for the heading style. For grommet curtains, start measuring from the top of the grommet opening, not the top of the curtain panel.
- Subtract or Add for Mounting Adjustments:
- If you plan to mount the curtain rod higher than the frame, be sure to add this extra height to your total curtain length.
- If the curtain panel sits below the rod (as with grommet or tab-top curtains), adjust the measurement accordingly.
Step 5: Final Adjustments for Curtain Width and Length
Width:
- Double-check fullness: Depending on your style (pleated, gathered, flat), the width of the fabric will vary.
- For pleated curtains, make sure you’ve accounted for the extra fabric needed for the folds.
Length:
- Consider hemming: It’s often better to buy curtains slightly longer than needed and hem them to the exact length, especially for floor-length drapes.
Step 6: Special Considerations for Bay Windows or Arched Windows
If you are measuring for irregularly shaped windows like bay or arched windows, extra care is required.
- For bay windows: Measure each section of the window separately and add allowances for overlapping curtains.
- For arched windows: Measure the widest and highest points. Consider custom curtains or drapery for the best fit.
Step 7: Recheck Measurements and Record
Finally, double-check all your measurements before purchasing curtains. It’s better to remeasure than to buy curtains that don’t fit properly.
Measurement Table Summary:
| Measurement Type | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Window Width | Measure from one side of the window frame to the other, then multiply by 2 or 3 for desired fullness. |
| Rod Length | Add 4-6 inches on each side of the window frame to determine the rod length. |
| Curtain Length | Measure from the curtain rod to the desired curtain end (above sill, below sill, floor, or puddle). |
| Mounting Height | Add 4-12 inches above the window frame for mounting, depending on how high you want to place the rod. |
Additional Tips:
- Always round up measurements: It’s easier to adjust a curtain that’s slightly too long than one that’s too short.
- Check for obstructions: Make sure to account for any window handles, radiators, or other fixtures that might affect curtain placement.
- Consider curtain weights: If you are using heavy drapes, make sure the rod and supports can handle the weight.
By following these steps carefully, you can ensure that your drapes or curtains will fit your windows perfectly, enhancing the beauty and functionality of your space.