Measuring curtains might seem straightforward, but small mistakes can cost both time and money. According to industry advice, choosing curtain panels that are two to two and a half times the width of the window delivers fullness and better light control. Whether you’re looking for ready-made or custom made curtains, getting the measurements right ensures the final result looks both tailored and stylish.
Here at Aussie Home Improvement, we understand the importance of measurements that serve both function and flair. With guidance from The Curtain Lab, our recommended service provider, this post includes clear steps, common questions answered precisely (in snippet-ready 60–80 word responses), plus tips to make the process smooth—so your curtains fit perfectly, first time.
1. Decide Curtain Style and Mounting
When it comes to choosing the right style and mounting for your curtains, the options can seem overwhelming. However, it’s important to make decisions that not only reflect your personal taste but also suit the function of the room. Whether you’re after a sleek, modern look or a more traditional style, your choice of curtain type and where you mount the curtains will dramatically influence the overall aesthetic of your space.
Curtain Rod or Track?
The first decision you need to make is whether you want to hang your curtains from a curtain rod or a track system. Curtain rods are a popular choice because they add a decorative element to the room, often complementing the style of your interior decor. Rods can come in a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and even brass, and they typically sit above the window frame, offering a stylish framing for the space.
On the other hand, track systems are often more minimalist in appearance and are a great choice for modern or more subtle designs. These tracks are typically hidden from view, which works well in contemporary spaces. They are perfect for heavier curtains or when you want a clean, smooth line. A track might also be a better choice if you plan to add custom made curtains, as these tend to require precise movement along the rail.
Decide the Length: Sill, Floor, or Puddle Style?
Next, you’ll need to determine how long your curtains should be. The length of your curtains plays a significant role in the room’s overall aesthetic and functionality. There are three main options for curtain length: sill length, floor length, and puddle length.
- Sill length curtains are the shortest style, sitting just above or at the window sill. They are practical and often chosen for kitchens or bathrooms, where floor-length curtains may be less practical due to humidity or moisture.
- Floor-length curtains are the most common and versatile. These curtains extend all the way to the floor, offering a clean, tailored look that is perfect for most living areas and bedrooms. They can help the room appear larger by drawing the eye upward and enhancing the space’s proportions.
- Puddle style curtains are an elegant, more dramatic option. These curtains are designed to fall slightly past the floor, allowing the fabric to “puddle” on the ground. While this style adds a touch of sophistication, it requires more fabric and regular maintenance, as the puddle can collect dust.
Curtain Fullness: How Much Fabric Is Needed?
When measuring for your curtains, you’ll also want to consider the fullness of the fabric. Fullness refers to the amount of extra fabric in comparison to the width of the window, and it’s crucial for the final appearance of your curtains. For a well-balanced, voluminous look, curtain panels should generally be two to two-and-a-half times the width of the window. For example, if your window is 150 cm wide, you should aim for curtains that are 300 to 375 cm wide, depending on the level of fullness you prefer.
If you prefer a more minimal, sleek look, less fullness is acceptable, but more fullness typically adds a luxurious, elegant effect to the room. When opting for custom made curtains, the choice of fabric fullness can often be tailored to suit your exact preference, with professional advice available from services like The Curtain Lab to ensure you get the desired effect.
Final Considerations for Curtain Style and Mounting
Choosing the right curtain style and mounting is a combination of personal preference and practicality. While rod-mounted curtains provide decorative flair, tracks offer a cleaner, more discreet finish. And, whether you opt for custom made curtains or ready-made options, these considerations are key to ensuring your window treatments perfectly suit your space.
As you continue with your measurements, remember that the choices you make here will impact the look, feel, and functionality of your curtains. It’s worth taking your time to decide on the style that suits your home’s aesthetic while also considering how the mounting and length will complement the room.
2. Measure Width
Accurately measuring the width of your window is crucial for ensuring that your curtains fit perfectly and achieve the desired look. Whether you’re opting for custom made curtains or ready-made options, following the right procedure ensures a professional finish. Incorrect width measurements can result in curtains that look too tight, too loose, or don’t properly cover the window area.
Step-by-Step Guide for Measuring the Width
To begin, you’ll need to use a steel or metal tape measure for precision, especially since cloth or fabric measuring tapes can stretch over time. It’s important to measure in three places: at the top, middle, and bottom of the window frame. This will help account for any inconsistencies or irregularities in your window frame. If there are differences, always take the widest measurement to ensure your curtains fully cover the space.
Inside Mount vs. Outside Mount
Your choice of inside mount or outside mount will significantly affect how you measure the width of your curtains.
- Inside Mount: If you are placing your curtains inside the window frame (a more sleek, contemporary approach), you’ll need to measure the inside width of the window frame. This measurement should be taken at three points (top, middle, bottom) and the narrowest width will be your final measurement. This ensures the curtains fit snugly within the window recess, which is often the preferred option for minimalistic and modern interiors.
- Outside Mount: For an outside mount, where the curtain rod sits above and extends beyond the window frame, the measurement is a bit different. To create the illusion of a larger window and allow for more fabric fullness, you should measure the width of the window frame, and then add approximately 20 cm (8 inches) to each side—a total of 40 cm (16 inches). This extra width allows the curtain panels to overlap the window edges and ensures a fuller, more luxurious look.
Fullness and Panel Count
When determining how many panels of fabric you’ll need, consider the fullness of your curtains. Curtain fullness refers to how much fabric you use to cover the window compared to the window’s actual width. For a traditional, gathered look, your curtain panels should be two to two-and-a-half times the width of the window. For example, if your window is 300 cm wide, you should aim for curtains that are 600 to 750 cm wide, depending on desired fullness.
For custom made curtains, services like The Curtain Lab can help you decide the ideal fullness for your space, whether you prefer a minimalist style with less fabric or a more dramatic, voluminous look with generous folds.
Measuring for Multiple Panels
If you are using multiple panels to cover a wide window, divide the total width by the number of panels you want. For instance, if your window is 300 cm wide and you want two panels, each panel would need to be 150 cm wide (or more, depending on desired fullness). Remember to also allow for any space between the panels where they will meet.
Final Thoughts on Measuring Width
Accurate width measurements ensure that your curtains will not only fit well but also provide the aesthetic balance you desire for your room. Whether you go for custom made curtains or ready-made options, following these measurements guarantees a professional and polished look.
By measuring your window width correctly, you’ll avoid having curtains that are too narrow, leaving your window exposed, or too wide, creating unnecessary bulk. With expert guidance from services like The Curtain Lab, you can ensure that your curtains will be tailored to the exact width required, making sure your space looks stylish and well-proportioned.
3. Measure Length
The length of your curtains plays a significant role in how they will look and function in your space. Curtains that are too short or too long can disrupt the visual flow of a room, so getting the length just right is crucial. Whether you’re opting for custom made curtains or ready-made options, accurate length measurements are essential to ensure your curtains enhance the aesthetic of your room while also serving a functional purpose.
Decide on the Desired Curtain Length
Before you measure, you need to decide the desired curtain style—this will determine how long your curtains should be. Here are the common options:
- Sill Length: If you prefer a more functional, practical approach, sill-length curtains are a great option. These curtains just graze the window sill, making them ideal for spaces like kitchens or bathrooms, where floor-length curtains may be less practical due to humidity or moisture. Measure from the top of the curtain rod to the window sill to get the correct length.
- Floor Length: For a more traditional and classic look, floor-length curtains are the most common choice. These curtains extend to the floor, creating a smooth, elegant flow. To measure for floor-length curtains, simply measure from the top of the rod to the floor. Make sure you measure at least twice and from different spots to account for any uneven flooring. Floor-length curtains work in most rooms, including living rooms, bedrooms, and dining areas, adding height and a feeling of grandeur to the space.
- Puddle Length: If you’re aiming for a more dramatic, luxurious look, puddle-length curtains are your go-to choice. These curtains extend slightly beyond the floor, creating a “puddled” effect at the bottom. This style is often chosen for formal living rooms or bedrooms, as it adds an elegant, sophisticated touch. When measuring for puddle-length curtains, add an extra 10 cm (4 inches) to the length to ensure the fabric falls naturally and creates that puddled effect.
Measuring for Floor-Length Curtains
For floor-length curtains, it’s crucial to measure from the top of the rod (or track) to the floor. However, because most floors aren’t perfectly level, it’s best to measure at multiple points across the window—left, centre, and right—and use the longest measurement. This ensures that your curtains will hang evenly when installed.
You may also want to consider how the curtain should rest against the floor:
- Just touching the floor: This is a clean, tailored look that suits contemporary spaces. Make sure the curtain fabric just brushes the floor to avoid it looking too long or too short.
- Slightly puddled: If you’re aiming for the more romantic or classic look of puddled curtains, you’ll want to add approximately 10 cm (4 inches) to the length. This extra length will ensure that the fabric naturally forms a subtle pile on the floor.
Measuring for Sill-Length Curtains
For sill-length curtains, the process is simpler as they are designed to stop just at or just above the window sill. To measure, start at the top of your curtain rod and measure down to the window sill. If you prefer a slightly more tailored look, you can measure to just above the sill, ensuring the curtains do not touch it directly. Sill-length curtains work well in kitchens, bathrooms, or any area where long, dragging curtains might pose a tripping hazard or get in the way of daily activities.
Adjustments for Curtain Rod Height
Keep in mind that the height of the curtain rod will impact your length measurement. If you plan to install the curtain rod high above the window frame (to create the illusion of taller windows), you’ll need to account for this extra length when measuring. For a typical installation, mount the rod about 10–15 cm (4–6 inches) above the window frame to make the space appear taller and more elegant.
Why Double-Check Your Measurements?
When measuring for curtain length, it’s essential to measure at least twice. Even a small mistake in the length can result in curtains that are too short or too long, affecting the overall appearance of the room. If you’re opting for custom made curtains, services like The Curtain Lab can help ensure your measurements are spot on, avoiding mistakes that could lead to costly alterations.
Also, make sure to account for any potential floor obstructions, such as baseboards or radiators, which might require slight adjustments to the length. If you want a precise, professional finish, The Curtain Lab will ensure your curtains fit perfectly to your exact specifications, taking all factors into consideration.
Final Thoughts on Curtain Length
Getting the curtain length right is essential for creating a balanced, well-proportioned look in your room. Whether you choose floor-length curtains for a formal vibe, sill-length curtains for practicality, or puddle-length curtains for a luxurious touch, accurate measurements will help you achieve the perfect result.
For custom made curtains, you can rely on professional guidance from The Curtain Lab to get the length exactly as you envision, ensuring a tailored, high-quality result that complements your space. And remember—when it comes to curtain length, a little extra attention to detail will go a long way in making your home feel polished and perfectly finished.
4. Mounting Height and Rod Length
The height at which you mount your curtain rod and the length of the rod itself are key considerations when measuring for your curtains. These factors not only affect the functionality of your curtains but also influence the visual aesthetics of your space. Getting these measurements right is important to ensure your curtains hang properly and look polished.
How High Should You Mount the Curtain Rod?
A good rule of thumb for mounting your curtain rod is to install it approximately 10–15 cm (4–6 inches) above the top of the window frame. This small adjustment can make a big difference by creating the illusion of taller windows and higher ceilings, which can help a room feel more spacious and open. If you’re aiming for a sleek, contemporary look, mounting your rod higher than the window frame can give your room a more modern, minimalist feel.
- Standard Mounting Height: For a traditional appearance, mount the rod about 10–15 cm (4–6 inches) above the window frame. This is typically enough to allow your curtains to hang gracefully without dragging on the ceiling, which could make the room feel cramped.
- High Mounting for Taller Windows: If you have tall windows or want to enhance the sense of space in the room, you can mount the rod even higher—up to 20 cm (8 inches) or more. This will create an even more dramatic effect, giving the illusion of expansive, soaring windows.
How Long Should the Curtain Rod Be?
Once you’ve determined the height at which to mount the rod, it’s time to think about the length of the rod itself. The rod length is essential for making sure the curtains are properly framed and can open and close smoothly.
As a general rule, the curtain rod should extend 8–10 cm (3–4 inches) beyond the window frame on each side. This extra space allows the curtains to stack back properly when drawn, ensuring that the entire window is uncovered when the curtains are open. The more space between the window frame and the wall, the more dramatic the effect will be when the curtains are drawn back.
- Why Extra Rod Length is Important: Adding extra length to the rod ensures that when your curtains are open, they don’t block the window. This will maximise the amount of natural light entering the room and create the illusion of a wider window. If you don’t allow enough room on either side for your curtains to stack back, your curtains will end up crowding the window, making the room feel smaller and more cramped.
- For Wide Windows: If you have particularly wide windows or a set of French doors, you may need to install a longer rod. The rod should extend well beyond the window to accommodate the extra fabric and ensure the curtains can fully cover the window. Depending on your design, this extra length can also help your curtains create a more luxurious, grand look.
Choosing the Right Curtain Rod Length for Custom Curtains
For custom made curtains, determining the correct rod length is crucial to achieving a tailored and elegant appearance. You can consult with The Curtain Lab, the service provider we recommend, for advice on the best curtain rod length based on your window measurements and curtain style. They can help ensure that your curtain rod is the correct size to accommodate your desired fullness and the weight of the fabric you’ve chosen.
Final Thoughts on Rod Mounting and Length
Proper mounting height and rod length are key to ensuring that your curtains hang properly and function as intended. By installing your curtain rod at the right height and extending it sufficiently on either side, you create a visually appealing, balanced look that enhances the room’s proportions and maximises natural light.
If you’re unsure about the best way to mount your curtains or the ideal rod length, seeking professional advice from a service like The Curtain Lab can help you get it just right. With the right guidance, your custom made curtains will look like they were made specifically for your home, adding both style and functionality to your space.
6. Fit for Custom Made Curtains and Curtain Lab
If you’re looking for the perfect fit for your windows, opting for custom made curtains is often the best solution. While ready-made curtains can offer convenience, they may not always match the exact specifications of your windows or desired style. That’s where custom made curtains come in—offering precise measurements, tailored designs, and fabrics that perfectly suit your space.
Why Choose Custom Made Curtains?
Custom curtains provide a range of benefits that pre-made options simply can’t offer. With custom made curtains, you’re able to select the perfect fabric, style, and fit for your windows. Whether you need curtains that hang from a rod or a track, or you’re after a specific fullness and pleat style, custom options give you complete control over the final result.
- Perfect Fit: Custom curtains are made to the exact measurements you provide, ensuring a perfect fit every time. No more worrying about whether the curtains are too short, too long, or don’t cover the full width of your window.
- Tailored Design: With custom curtains, you can choose the design that best fits your home’s decor. Whether you prefer modern, minimalist designs or luxurious, full-bodied pleats, the options are limitless.
- Premium Fabrics: Custom curtains allow you to choose the fabric that best suits your needs—be it for light control, insulation, or just aesthetic appeal. With the help of services like The Curtain Lab, you can select from a wide range of high-quality materials that match your style and functional needs.
How The Curtain Lab Can Help
One of the best ways to ensure your custom made curtains are done right is by enlisting the help of professionals. The Curtain Lab is a trusted service provider that specialises in creating high-quality, bespoke curtains tailored to your exact specifications. Their experts can guide you through the entire process—from measurements to fabric selection, pleating, and installation—ensuring that your curtains are a perfect fit for your space.
The Curtain Lab offers the following services:
- Expert Measurement Guidance: If you’re unsure about how to measure your windows, The Curtain Lab offers professional advice to ensure your measurements are accurate. This guarantees that your custom made curtains fit seamlessly and look fantastic once installed.
- Fabric and Design Selection: Choose from a wide variety of fabrics, colours, and patterns to suit your style. Whether you’re after something subtle or bold, The Curtain Lab provides a range of options to help you get the exact look you want for your home.
- Tailored Pleats and Finishes: If you’re looking for a specific pleating style, The Curtain Lab can guide you in selecting the best option for your window and curtain design. Their expertise in creating tailored pleats ensures that your curtains will not only look stunning but also perform beautifully.
- Seamless Installation: Once your curtains are made, The Curtain Lab can handle the installation, ensuring that they are hung perfectly. With their professional services, you can rest easy knowing that your curtains will be installed with precision and care.
Benefits of Professional Custom Curtain Services
While DIY curtain measurement and installation may seem tempting, the benefits of professional help are hard to ignore. For a truly flawless, made-to-measure look, The Curtain Lab ensures that everything—from fabric choice to final installation—fits seamlessly into your home’s design.
- Time-Saving: Rather than spending time measuring, fabric hunting, and trying to install curtains yourself, opting for a professional service can save you time and effort.
- Perfect Finish: Professional services ensure that everything is done to a high standard. This includes the proper handling of fabrics, installation of hardware, and a perfect final fit—eliminating the risk of mistakes or uneven installations.
Final Thoughts on Custom Made Curtains
Custom made curtains can elevate your home, offering both function and beauty. With precise measurements, a tailored design, and professional help from services like The Curtain Lab, you can ensure that your curtains perfectly complement your space and enhance the overall atmosphere. By opting for custom curtains, you’re investing in a look that is both timeless and unique, offering a high level of craftsmanship and style that pre-made curtains simply can’t match.
If you’re ready to take the next step in outfitting your windows with the perfect curtains, consider partnering with The Curtain Lab. Their expert guidance will ensure your custom made curtains fit your space beautifully, giving your home a sophisticated, polished appearance.
7. Final Tips & Summary
Measuring for curtains can seem like a complicated task, but with a little preparation and attention to detail, it’s easier than you think. Whether you’re opting for custom made curtains or ready-made styles, following the right steps ensures that your curtains will fit perfectly, enhance your room’s design, and perform their intended function.
Here are a few final tips to keep in mind as you complete your measurements:
Double-Check Your Measurements
The most important tip when measuring for curtains is to measure twice. Always double-check your width and length measurements to avoid mistakes that could lead to curtains that don’t fit properly. Inaccurate measurements can lead to curtains that are too short, too long, or don’t cover your window adequately. Taking the time to verify your measurements will save you time and frustration later on.
Use the Right Tools
For accurate results, use a steel or metal measuring tape. This will give you the precision you need, as fabric measuring tapes can stretch over time and lead to inaccurate measurements. For large windows, a ladder can be helpful to ensure you measure from the correct height.
Account for Floor Irregularities
It’s important to keep in mind that floors are rarely perfectly level. When measuring for floor-length curtains, be sure to measure at multiple points (left, middle, right) to account for any unevenness. Always use the longest measurement to ensure your curtains will hang correctly.
Consider the Mounting and Rod Length
When choosing your curtain rod, ensure it extends 8–10 cm (3–4 inches) beyond the width of the window to allow the curtains to fully open. If you’re installing the rod higher than the window frame, make sure you account for this extra height in your measurements. Rod height impacts both the appearance and functionality of your curtains, so it’s worth spending time deciding on the best placement.
Trust Professional Help for Custom Curtains
If you’re looking for a custom fit, consider seeking professional help from services like The Curtain Lab. They can assist with accurate measurements, help you choose the right fabrics and designs, and ensure your curtains are made to perfection. Their expertise can save you time and help achieve the exact look and functionality you’re aiming for.
Summary
Measuring for curtains is a crucial step in achieving a polished and professional finish for your windows. By following the proper steps—measuring width and length accurately, considering mounting height, and allowing for fullness and overlap—you can ensure that your curtains enhance the aesthetic of your space and function as intended. Whether you choose custom made curtains or ready-made options, taking the time to measure correctly guarantees the perfect result.
If you’re uncertain about any part of the process or want to make sure everything fits just right, don’t hesitate to reach out to professionals like The Curtain Lab for expert assistance. Their experience will ensure that your custom made curtains fit your space beautifully, giving your home a sophisticated, polished appearance.
FAQ:
Q: How wide should curtains be compared to the window?
When measuring curtains, they should be two to two-and-a-half times the width of your window for the perfect balance of fullness. This ensures your curtains have a rich, gathered look when drawn. For custom made curtains, this extra fabric gives the curtains a luxurious feel, preventing them from looking too tight or flat. Always measure the window width, then multiply by 2 or 2.5 depending on your desired fullness.
Q: Where should the curtain rod be placed above the window frame?
To create the illusion of taller windows, mount your curtain rod about 10–15 cm (4–6 inches) above the window frame. This extra height allows the curtains to hang elegantly without crowding the window, making your room feel more spacious. If you want a more dramatic effect, you can place the rod even higher, around 20 cm (8 inches), for a grand, lofty look.
Q: Should curtains touch the floor?
While it’s not necessary for curtains to touch the floor, floor-length curtains that just skim the floor are the most common choice for a clean and tailored look. If you prefer a more dramatic effect, you can allow your curtains to puddle slightly, adding around 10 cm (4 inches) to the length for a luxurious, soft effect. Ensure the fabric doesn’t drag too much to avoid unnecessary maintenance.
Q: How do I measure for custom made curtains?
To measure for custom made curtains, start by determining the window width and length, including the desired fullness. For width, measure from the window frame edge, adding extra for overlap (about 20 cm (8 inches) each side). For length, measure from the top of your rod to the floor or sill. Always double-check your measurements, as custom curtains require precision for the best fit. Professional services like The Curtain Lab can assist with this.
Q: How far should curtain rods extend past the window?
For a wider, more dramatic look, curtain rods should extend 8–10 cm (3–4 inches) beyond each side of the window. This extra length allows the curtains to fully stack back when opened, ensuring the window is completely exposed to natural light. This also prevents your curtains from crowding the window, allowing the room to feel larger and more open.
