How To Measure For New Curtains - Step-By-Step Guide

Adding new curtains to your living space is a chance to change the look and feel of any room! At this exciting stage of your home makeover it’s important to measure for your new curtains, and ensure a perfect fit. If this is the first time you’re measuring for curtains, this process might sound a bit daunting, but it’s actually very simple when following a step-by-step guide.

Measuring For Your Curtains

What You'll Need:

• A tape measure
• A notebook or the notes app on your phone
• A pen / pencil (optional)
• A ladder / step stool (optional)

 

Step 1 - Measuring The Width

A good place to start is measuring the width. Let’s jot down how wide your curtains should be. We recommend starting this process once you have already installed a curtain pole or curtain track.

First, measure the full length of this pole or track to find the right width. Don’t include any finishes or decorative pieces at the ends. Make a note of this measurement.

If your space doesn’t have a pole or track, measure the width of your window and add 15-30cm on each end. If necessary, get someone to help you determine how much space to add. Including a bit of space at the ends will help block out light once your curtains are up. For example, if your window is 120cm wide, you would write down something between 150 -180cm for your pole or track.

Determine The Heading Style

The heading style of your curtain will affect the way you measure length. Before before getting your tape measure ready, decide which type of curtain you’re going for.

Eyelet Curtains

Eyelet curtains come with metal rings embedded along the top of the fabric. If you’ve chosen this style, when measuring your length in the next step, measure from the top of the pole to where you want the curtains to finish. Even though the eyelets sit about 4cm below the top of the curtain, you will still need to measure from the top of the pole. If you have no pole installed, mark out a reference point using the measurement taken in step one.

Step 3 - Measuring The Length

Curtain length can vary much more than width, as it depends on the look you want to achieve. You can choose any type of length from sill length that ends just above the window where daylight can creep through a tiny bit. To puddle length - the grand dramatic style that has your curtains gathered and touching the floor. See the options and the instructions for each below.

Sill Length

Measure from the curtain pole down to 0.5 - 1cm above the window sill

Below Sill

Measure from the pole down to 15cm below where the sill finishes or 2 - 3cm above the radiator (if you have a radiator installed)

Floor length

Measure from the pole down to 1 - 2cm above the floor

Puddle length

Measure from the pole down to 3 - 6cm longer than your standard floor length measurement

Project complete! Now you know how to measure for curtains like a pro. Feel free to browse our homeware collection to add items that will match your new curtains nicely.