Do Curtain Measurements Refer To Each Panel Or The Entire Curtain?

If you’re looking for new curtains to spruce up your home, you might be wondering how to measure them correctly. After all, you don’t want to end up with curtains that are too short, too long, or too narrow for your windows. But do curtain measurements refer to each panel or the entire curtain?

And how do you know what size to order? Don’t worry, I’m here to help you with some simple tips and tricks on how to measure for curtains like a pro.

Curtain measurements refer to each individual panel, not the entire curtain. You need to measure the width and the drop of your window and then multiply the width by a factor depending on the type and style of your curtains.

The drop is the length of the curtain from the top of the rod to where you want it to end.

How to measure curtain width

The width of your curtain depends on how full and gathered you want it to look. The standard curtain width is measured from left to right and it’s measured by using the horizontal part of the curtain. More often than not, most curtains and drapes need to measure at least two to three times more than the window width in order to give a full appearance when hanging.

To measure the width of a window:

• Mark from one side of the window casing to the other.
• To this measurement, add 15cm per side or 30cm in total.
• Then take this total number and divide it by the number of panels you wish to order (this is usually two).
• Each panel should have at least a minimum width of your final number.
• The total width should be no less than 1.5 times the width of your window.

For example:

• If your window measures 120cm, add 30cm to equal 150cm.
• If you want to have two panels, divide this amount by two which will equal 75cm, meaning the curtain size for each panel should have a minimum width of 75cm.

How to measure curtain drop

The drop, a standard term for the height of the curtain, of a curtain is measured by the span of the space that you wish for the drape to cover – whether this is just over a window or all the way to the floor. These curtain sizes vary depending on your style preferences. Curtain drop can also be adjusted by moving the curtain pole itself, though this isn’t always ideal. When in doubt, it’s better to err on the side of drop – you would rather have a curtain that is too long than too short.

Ready-made curtain sizes usually are 160cm, 210cm, 240cm, 275cm and 300cm.

To measure the drop of the curtain:

• You must first mount your drapery pole and determine the style of curtain you are going for (valance, floor-length, etc).
• Measure down to where you wish for the curtain to hang – usually the bottom of the sill or to the floor – and this drop is what you should order.

There are four main lengths when it comes to curtains:

1. Windowsill curtains: As the name suggests, these are shorter curtains and end at the windowsill. They are best suited to kitchens and bedrooms where windows tend to be elevated. These curtains tend to be 1cm above the windowsill.
2. Apron curtains: These come down about four inches below your windowsill and have a more casual feel than windowsill curtains. They are great if you have a radiator under your window as they stop heat escaping out of the window. These end 15cm below the edge of the windowsill.
3. Floor-length curtains: These curtains drape down to the floor and are popular in living rooms where you have larger windows. They’re the easiest to maintain and to open and close. These are 1cm above the floor.
4. Puddle curtains: These curtains ‘puddle’ on the floor and extend between 1-3 inches longer than floor length curtains. The result is a dramatic look that is effective in areas such as dining rooms and living rooms. Please note: Care should be taken around small children and pets as this could be a trip hazard.

FAQs

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

A: Different types of curtains require different factors for calculating their width. For example, if you want pleated curtains, multiply the basic width by 2 or 2.5. If you want grommet or tab top curtains, multiply the basic width by 1.5 or 2.

Q: How do I measure for bay windows?

A: Bay windows can be tricky to measure, but there are some tips to make it easier. First, measure the width of each section of the window and add them together. Then, add 30cm to the total width to allow for overlaps and returns. Next, measure the drop of each section of the window and choose the longest one as your drop measurement. Finally, divide the total width by the number of panels you want and order curtains that match or exceed your width and drop measurements.

Q: How do I measure for curtains without a pole?

A: If you don’t have a pole yet, you can use a tape measure to estimate where you want to mount it. Ideally, the pole should be 15cm above the window frame and extend 15cm beyond each side of the window. Then, follow the same steps as above to measure the width and drop of your window and curtains.

Wrap up

I hope this guide has helped you understand how to measure for curtains and what curtain measurements refer to. Remember, curtain measurements refer to each individual panel, not the entire curtain. You need to measure the width and the drop of your window and then multiply the width by a factor depending on the type and style of your curtains.

The drop is the length of the curtain from the top of the rod to where you want it to end. If you follow these simple steps, you’ll be able to find curtains that fit your windows perfectly and make your home look huetiful.

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.