How To Measure Curtain Length And Width

Well, slap my face and call me sassy! We’re back again, darlings, to dish about them curtains. Before you start hacking away at that fabric, you better learn how measure them lengths and widths first. Curtains that are too short will have your windows feeling all exposed, while curtains that are too narrow will look skimpier than a string bikini. Measure once and measure right, or your window treatment is gonna end up a hot mess.

How To Measure Curtain Length And Width: A simple guide to get the perfect fit for your curtains.

Choose the right curtain style

The first step to measuring curtains is to choose the right curtain style for your window and room. There are many types of curtains available, such as eyelet, pencil pleat, tab top, rod pocket, pinch pleat, grommet, and more. Each type of curtain has a different way of hanging and measuring. You also need to decide how long and wide you want your curtains to be. There are four main lengths when it comes to curtains:

• Windowsill curtains: These are shorter curtains that end at the windowsill. They are best suited for kitchens and bathrooms where windows tend to be elevated.
• Apron curtains: These are longer curtains that end about 15cm (6 inches) below the windowsill. They are great for bedrooms and living rooms where you want some extra fabric and coziness.
• Floor-length curtains: These are the longest curtains that end at the floor or slightly above it. They are ideal for large windows and formal rooms where you want a dramatic and elegant look.
• Puddle curtains: These are extra-long curtains that extend beyond the floor and create a puddle effect. They are suitable for luxurious fabrics such as velvet or silk and add some romance and flair to your room.

You also need to decide how wide you want your curtains to be. Generally, you want your curtains to be at least two or three times wider than your window to create some gather or pleat in the fabric.

Choose the right curtain rod or track

The next step to measuring curtains is to choose the right curtain rod or track for your window and curtain style. A curtain rod or track is the hardware that holds your curtains in place and allows you to open and close them. You need to choose a curtain rod or track that matches the style and size of your curtains and window.

• A curtain rod is a metal or wooden pole that extends across your window. It usually has decorative finials at the ends and brackets that attach it to the wall. A curtain rod is suitable for most types of curtains, such as eyelet, tab top, grommet, rod pocket, etc.
• A curtain track is a metal or plastic rail that runs along your window. It usually has gliders or hooks that slide along the track and hold your curtains in place. A curtain track is suitable for some types of curtains, such as pencil pleat, pinch pleat, etc.

You need to measure the length of your curtain rod or track before you measure your curtains. The length of your curtain rod or track should be about 15-20 cm (6-8 inches) wider than your window on each side. This will allow your curtains to cover your window completely when closed and create some space when opened.

Measure the length of your curtains

The length of your curtains is measured from the top of the curtain rod or track to where you want them to end. The length of your curtains depends on the style and look you want to achieve.

• To measure windowsill curtains, measure from the top of the curtain rod or track to the windowsill and subtract 1 cm (0.5 inch). This will prevent your curtains from touching or dragging on the windowsill.
• To measure apron curtains, measure from the top of the curtain rod or track to 15 cm (6 inches) below the windowsill.
• To measure floor-length curtains, measure from the top of the curtain rod or track to the floor and subtract 1 cm (0.5 inch). This will prevent your curtains from touching or dragging on the floor.
• To measure puddle curtains, measure from the top of the curtain rod or track to the floor and add 2.5-7.5 cm (1-3 inches), depending on the effect you want to create.

Measure the width of your curtains

The width of your curtains is measured from one end of the curtain rod or track to the other. The width of your curtains depends on the amount of gather or pleat you want in the fabric.

• To measure the width of your curtains, measure the length of your curtain rod or track and multiply it by two or three times, depending on how full you want your curtains to look. This will give you the total width of your curtains.
• To measure the width of each curtain panel, divide the total width of your curtains by the number of panels you want to have. Usually, you want to have two panels, one for each side of your window. This will give you the width of each curtain panel.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about how to measure curtain length and width.

Q: How do I measure for different types of curtains?

A: Different types of curtains may have different ways of measuring. For example, eyelet curtains are measured from the top of the eyelet to where you want them to end, while pencil pleat curtains are measured from the bottom of the hook to where you want them to end. You should always check the instructions or labels on your curtains before measuring them.

Q: How do I measure for different types of windows?

A: Different types of windows may have different ways of measuring. For example, bay windows are curved windows that require a special curtain rod or track that follows the shape of the window. You should measure each section of the window separately and add them together to get the total length of your curtain rod or track. You should also measure each section of the window separately and add them together to get the total width of your curtains.

Q: How do I measure for lined or blackout curtains?

A: Lined or blackout curtains are curtains that have an extra layer of fabric behind them that blocks out light and noise. You should measure for lined or blackout curtains in the same way as regular curtains, except that you should add an extra 2.5 cm (1 inch) to the length and width of your curtains to allow for the lining.

Wrap up

Now you’ve got the 411 on measuring curtain lengths and widths, you’re ready to make them windows sing. Floor-length, apron or mini – take your pick and make them measurements werk. By the time you’re done, your curtains will be flowing smoother than a mint julep on Derby day. And with them lengths and widths on point, your window treatment will be turning heads from here to tomorrow. Talk about nailing it! Them windows won’t know what hit them. Strut your stuff, girl and get ready to rock them curtain measurements in style! Toodles for now, you saucy minxes! 

Dale

Dale is the colorful mind behind HuetifulHomes.com, where he shows you how to create a home that is as fun and fabulous as you are. He has a passion for color and a knack for DIY, with years of interior design experience he shares his tips and tricks on how to create a home that reflects your personality and style. He believes that color is the key to happiness, and he wants to help you make your home more Huetiful.