Measurement Guide

Introduction

When it comes to dressing up your windows, curtains play a crucial role. To ensure your curtains look perfect and function well, accurate measurement is key. This guide will walk you through the process step by step. 

STEP 1: Measuring the Width

If the curtain pole is already installed

Use a measuring tape to measure the length of the existing curtain pole precisely. Record this measurement as it will serve as an important reference for determining the width of your curtains.

If the curtain pole is not yet installed

Decide on the ideal position for the curtain pole above and to the sides of the window frame.

 

Recommended curtain rod hanging height: It is advisable to install the curtain rod 6 to 10 inches above the window frame. This height not only provides a good aesthetic look but also allows for easy operation of the curtains. If you aim to make the window appear taller visually, you can choose to install the curtain rod closer to the ceiling.

 

Recommended curtain rod width: To guarantee complete coverage of the window and prevent light leakage from the sides, the curtains should be 6 to 15 inches wider on each side than the actual width of the window. This extra width ensures that when the curtains are drawn, no gaps are left for light to seep through.

 


STEP 2: Choosing the Curtain Pleat Multiple

  • 1.5x Fullness: This option is a practical and cost-effective choice. It creates a moderate pleated effect that gives the curtains a simple yet elegant look. It is particularly suitable for those with a small window, a limited budget, or those who prefer a minimalist style. The curtains with 1.5x fullness pull up smoothly and do not appear overly bulky.
  • 2x Fullness: This creates a highly full and luxurious pleated effect, adding a touch of grandeur to the room. It is ideal for larger windows or spaces where a more decorative and opulent look is desired, such as living rooms and master bedrooms. However, it should be noted that this option requires more fabric, which will result in a higher cost.

The fullness ratio also depends on the curtain top style:

  • For styles like Double French Pinch Pleat, Triple French Pinch Pleat, Inverted Box Pleat, Goblet, and 4-IN-1, the fullness is already incorporated into the design of the curtain. Therefore, you do not need to add extra width specifically for the fullness when ordering.
  • For grommet, Back Tab, and rod pocket styles, you must determine the curtain width to purchase based on your desired fullness. For example, if you want a certain fullness ratio for these styles, you need to calculate the appropriate width according to the width of the curtain rod and the desired fullness factor.

 

STEP 3: Determining the Final Width and Length of Your Custom Drapery

Pleated & Goblet & 4-IN-1 Styles

Width: Suppose the rod length is 100 inches and you desire a 200% fullness for folds. For the Double French Pinch Pleat style, you might order 2 panels, each 50 inches wide. This calculation ensures that when the curtains are hung, the desired fullness and coverage are achieved.

 

Length: Measure the length from the rod ring eyelet or track ring eyelet to the floor. This measurement gives the actual length required for the curtains to reach the floor. It is important to measure accurately to avoid any discrepancies in the final look. Additionally, typically, the stacked width after folds accounts for around 20% of the panel width. This factor should be considered when determining the overall width and how the curtains will look when drawn.

Grommet & Back Tab & Rod Pocket Styles

Width: Again, if the rod length is 100 inches and you aim for 200% fullness for folds, for the Back Tab style, you may need to order 2 panels each 100 inches wide. The width calculation for these styles is different from the pleated styles as the fullness needs to be accounted for differently.

 

Length: Measure from the top of the curtain to the bottom. Similar to the other styles, accuracy in measurement is crucial. And the stacked width after folds usually makes up about 20% of the panel width.

Different Aesthetic Effects of Curtain Lengths

Length Measurement Methods for Different Styles

For pleated and flat hook style: Measure from the point where the curtain attaches to the rod (usually the top of the pleat or the flat hook attachment) down to the desired length. If you want a floor - length curtain, measure to the floor. For a sill - length curtain, measure to the window sill. Make sure the measuring tape is straight and perpendicular to the floor for an accurate measurement. (Insert relevant picture here to illustrate the measurement points and process)

 

 

For grommet, back tab and rod pocket: For grommet - top curtains, measure from the center of the top - most grommet down to the desired end point. For back tab curtains, measure from the top of the fabric where the tabs are attached to the desired length. In the case of rod pocket curtains, measure from the top of the rod pocket (where the rod will pass through) to the bottom of the curtain. (Insert relevant picture here to show the specific measurement details for each style)

 

 

Attention

When measuring, it is essential to use a steel tape measure and measure the width and length as close as 1 inch to ensure precision.

 

When choosing the curtain pleat multiple, take into account factors such as the size of the window, decoration style, personal preference, and budget. Different decoration styles often pair better with specific pleat multiples.

 

This guide offers valuable advice and recommendations, but it may not cover all possible scenarios. If you have further questions regarding curtain measurement, feel free to send us an email for assistance.