Curtains not only enhance the overall ambience of your home, but the right ones also make the area look more spacious and vibrant. Not only do these curtains need to be of the perfect design and colours, but also the perfect length and width. Besides the room size, curtain measurements are also affected by the window it is going to cover and other similar factors. It might sound confusing, but it is a straightforward process.
Measuring the curtains is an easy task that doesn’t require more than a few minutes. Check out how you can measure and then choose the right type of curtain for your space.
See also: Different types of window curtains to choose from
Measuring curtains: The process
The necessary tools
- Measuring tape
- Step ladder in case the curtains are placed higher.
- Pencil/pen and paper to note down the measurements.
- Finding out the curtain length
The first step is to decide what length you want, i.e. where you wish your curtains to fall. Do you want it below the windowsill, should it touch the floor, should it be right above the floor or should it fall over the floor dramatically?
Decide what kind of look you want
If you wish your curtains to end just above the floor, measure from the curtain rod to just above a few inches from the floor.
If you wish your curtains to fall on the floor dramatically, measure from the curtain rod to the floor and add a few more inches for the additional effect.
If you wish your curtains to be just below the windowsill, measure to that length.
Source: Pinterest (wereinstitches.co.uk)
Curtain width
For measuring curtain width, you should measure the width of the curtain rod starting from one end to the other. If you wish to use more than one rod, you can measure one rod, as it will tell you the individual panel length.
How to achieve a fuller look?
To achieve a fuller look, you can increase the width of the curtains by multiplying the original width by 1.5 or 2. This would be the final width of your curtains. A fuller look enhances the overall appearance and gives a rich and luxurious look to your home.
Find out your curtain style
You cannot apply one standard measure to every curtain type. For example, for rod pocket curtains, you need to measure from the bottom of the rod pocket, whereas, for tab top curtains, you need to measure from the tab top.
Source: Pinterest (west elm)
Measure for curtain header
The curtain header is the pleated design which determines how the fabric flows. Different curtain headers provide different looks.
If you plan to use curtain headers, you will also have to consider the header’s height while measuring the overall curtain length. To measure the curtain header, place the measuring tape at the top of the curtain rod and move towards the bottom of the header. This will give you the header length.
Record measurements
Before finalising anything, recheck the measurements to ensure that you find the perfect curtain for your space.
FAQs
How high should I hang my curtains above the window?
Generally, you should hang the curtains 4-6 inches above the windows.
Can I use the same curtains for different window types?
While you can use the same curtain, the ideal curtain is tailored specifically for each window.
Should my curtains touch the floor or hover above it?
It all depends on the type of look you wish to go for; however, keeping the curtains a few inches above the floor avoids the chances of them being dirty often.
How can I use curtains to make a small room look larger?
You can create this illusion by hanging curtains above the window frame.
What if I use a standard curtain for all my rooms?
You can use a standard curtain for all rooms but curtains which are tailored specifically for each room provide a more finished look.
What if my windows are irregularly shaped?
In such a case, measure the widest and longest points.
| Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com |
