How To Measure For Curtains

IMPORTANT – Always use metal tape to take your measurements rather than fabric or plastic tape, which may stretch and result in inaccurate measurements.

We would recommend you get in touch and check the stock levels before placing your order. 

Browse Made To Measure Curtains

MEASURING THE WIDTH

To be sure of the best possible fit, take time to measure carefully. You must measure the width of the curtain rail or pole, not the window itself. The curtain rail or pole should be positioned 15cm above the window and extended 15cm – 20cm on either side so that the curtains can be stacked back off the window.

Measure the total width of the rail or pole (excluding finials). Don’t forget to account for overlap – this is an additional measurement, normally 2.5cm, which allows the hanging curtains to overlap in the middle when they are closed.

If you have a rail with a centre overlap, measure the total width of the rail excluding finials, then measure the overlap and add the two measurements together.

MEASURING THE DROP

Before measuring the drop, decide whether you want your curtains to fit above the sill, below the sill, or to the floor. We suggest that:

  • Curtains that fit above the sill finish 1.25cm above the sill
  • Curtains that fit below the sill finish 15cm below the sill
  • Curtains that fit to the floor finish 1.5cm above the floor

Take your measurements from 3 different points along the track or pole, as sills and floors are rarely completely level, and use the shortest measurement so that the curtains don’t drag on the floor or the sill.

PENCIL PLEAT AND DOUBLE/TRIPLE PINCH PLEAT HEADINGS

For curtain rails measure from the top of the rail to where you want the curtain to finish.

For curtain poles measure from the top of the eye (the small metal ring underneath the curtain rings) to where you want the curtain to finish. This will prevent your curtain pole or rings from being obscured by the curtains.

Please note: our pinch pleat curtains are made with buckram heading and are designed to hang on a pole, although some customers do hang them on a rail.

EYELET 40MM AND 66MM HEADING

This heading is only suitable for curtain poles up to 35mm and 50mm respectively in diameter. Measure from the top edge of your pole, to where you want the curtains to finish. Add on 4.0cm to allow for the heading above the pole.

WAVE 80MM HEADING

We strongly recommend your track/metropole is purchased and installed to get accurate measurements and we require the number of gliders to process an order. The number of gliders for each curtain in the pair must be equal. For example 40 gliders in total, 20 gliders in each curtain. Please follow instructions for measuring in accordance with the track/metropole purchased as these can differ.

IMPORTANT – It’s important that you carefully measure your rail or pole to ensure your curtains fit correctly. If you are in any doubt, please be sure to check again.

By supplying these measurements you take full responsibility for the finished size of your curtains.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much extra fabric should I allow for pleats?

For pencil pleats, add 50% to your measured width. For pinch pleats, add 100%.

Can I use curtains on bay windows?

Absolutely! We recommend separate curtains for each section, with careful consideration of corner overlaps.

How high should I hang my curtain rod?

For a visual height boost, place the rod 10-15cm above the window frame, extending 15-20cm on either side.

What if my windows are different sizes?

Measure each window individually. We can create a matching set with different dimensions.

How do I measure for blackout curtains?

Follow the same process, but consider adding extra width and using a wraparound rod for maximum light blocking.