How to Measure for Curtains – A Buyer’s Guide
While curtains are relatively easy to install, you will need to measure your windows before you buy as curtains come in a wide variety of sizes. The standard method of measurement for any window frame is to allow for three inches beyond each side, three inches below the bottom and six inches above the top; however, you can change the look of the room simply by hanging drapery as far below or as high above the window frame as you like.
Unless a deep sill or radiator in the way, floor-length curtains are preferable. You can find ready-made panels in lengths from 63 to 144 inches. If necessary, you can hem them a bit. Drapes that just hit the floor or sill give a clean structured look. Panels that extend onto the floor by 1-3 inches have a more stylish look; they appear more relaxed but still have that tailored feel. In formal rooms these extended length curtains can look romantic, but you will need to refluff them after vacuuming or after your dog or cat naps on them.
Learn how to measure for curtains in this video tutorial:
The following guidelines will help you measure for regularly sized window curtains:
Height: Determine the placement of your curtain rod. While six inches above the window frame is standard, you can raise your ceiling’s visual height and create a more dramatic look by placing the curtain rod higher. It’s advisable, however, not to go higher than eight inches above the frame as it might look awkward. Placing the rod lower can be just as attractive.
Width: To calculate the horizontal curtain coverage and curtain rod width you’ll need, measure the window from side to side, including the frame, and add 3-6 inches on each side. Multiplying this measurement by two will give you the standard fullness. For a more dramatic look, multiply by three or more. Drapes that hang beyond the sides of the window will make the window appear larger, completely hide the frame, and won’t block light from the window when drawn open. If your curtains will just be framing the window, and you don’t intend to shut them, you can multiply by just 1.5.
Length: To calculate the length of the curtains you’ll need, if you want the standard look, measure from six inches above the window frame down to the lowest point where you want your curtains to hang. The curtain rod should be at least three inches above the window, but it can be higher than six inches above the window if you want. You can skip this step if you are only going to hang a valance.
If you will be hanging cafe or floor-length curtains instead of regularly sized curtains, follow these tips:
Cafe curtains: These curtains come in pairs with two rods and work well in bathrooms and kitchens where long drapes aren’t practical. The upper rod is positioned inside the window frame and typically hold the valance, while the low rod is positioned at the height of a glazing bar or halfway down the window. To determine the length of the larger curtain panel, measure from the lower rod placement down to the bottom of the edge of the window opening. To determine the curtain fullness, measure the window from side to side and multiply by two.
Floor-length curtains: Floor-length curtains come in standard sizes. Since they should gently brush the floor without hiding it from view, you may need to adjust the installation of your curtain rod to accommodate the curtain’s extra length.
