Pinch pleat curtains are a classic and elegant choice for window treatments because they create a neat and tailored look with their uniform folds and pleats. But before you buy or make your own pinch pleat curtains, you need to know how to measure them correctly. Here are some tips and tricks to help you get the perfect fit for your windows.
The Quick and Easy Way to Measure Pinch Pleat Curtains
To measure pinch pleat curtains, you need to measure the width and height of your window, choose a curtain rod or track that matches the size of your pinch pleats, and decide how much extra fabric you want on each side and at the bottom of your window.
How to Measure the Width of Your Window
The width of your window determines how long your curtain rod or track should be and how many pinch pleat panels you need. To measure the width of your window, follow these steps:
- Use a metal measuring tape to measure the width of your window from left to right, including any molding that may be present on either side. This will give you the number you need to determine how long your curtain rod or track should be.
- Add 12 inches (30 cm) to this measurement to get the length of your curtain rod or track. This will allow you to extend the rod or track beyond the window frame and create a more spacious and elegant look.
- Divide the length of your curtain rod or track by two to get the width of each pinch pleat panel. For example, if your curtain rod or track is 60 inches (152 cm) long, each panel should be 30 inches (76 cm) wide.
- Multiply the width of each panel by two or three to get the fullness factor. The fullness factor is how much extra fabric you want on each panel to create folds and pleats when you hang them. For pinch pleat curtains, a fullness factor of two or three is recommended for a nice balance between style and functionality.
- Multiply the width of each panel by the fullness factor to get the final width of each panel. For example, if each panel is 30 inches (76 cm) wide and you want a fullness factor of two, each panel should be 60 inches (152 cm) wide.
How to Measure the Height of Your Window
The height of your window determines how long your pinch pleat panels should be and how much they will cover your window. To measure the height of your window, follow these steps:
- Use a metal measuring tape to measure the height of your window from top to bottom, including any molding that may be present on either side. This will give you the number you need to determine how long your pinch pleat panels should be.
- Decide how high you want to hang your curtain rod or track above the window. A common rule of thumb is to hang it 6 to 12 inches (15 to 30 cm) above the window frame, depending on the size and shape of your window and your personal preference. Add this measurement to the height of your window to get the total height from the floor to where you want your curtains to start.
- Decide how low you want your curtains to hang below your window. You can choose from different curtain lengths depending on the look you want to achieve. Here are some common options:
- Sill length: The curtains end at or slightly above the windowsill. This is a good option for small windows or windows that are close to furniture or radiators.
- Apron length: The curtains end 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) below the windowsill. This is a good option for medium-sized windows or windows that need some extra coverage.
- Floor length: The curtains end just above or touching the floor. This is a good option for large windows or windows that are not obstructed by anything.
- Puddle length: The curtains end several inches below the floor and create a puddle effect on the ground. This is a good option for dramatic or romantic settings.
- Subtract 1/2 inch (1 cm) from the total height from step 2 and add or subtract depending on which curtain length option you choose from step 3. This will give you the final length of each panel.
How to Choose a Curtain Rod or Track that Matches Your Pinch Pleats
The size and shape of your pinch pleats determine what kind of curtain rod or track you need and how easy it is to install and remove it. To choose a curtain rod or track that matches your pinch pleats, follow these steps:
- Measure the width of one pinch pleat on your curtain panel, not including the fabric on either side. This will give you an idea of how wide your curtain rod or track should be.
- Choose a curtain rod or track that has a diameter that fits your pinch pleat width. For example, if your pinch pleat width is 4 inches (10 cm), your curtain rod or track should have a diameter of 4 inches (10 cm) or less.
- Choose a curtain rod or track that has hooks or clips that are easy to attach and detach from your pinch pleats. You can choose from different types of hooks or clips depending on your preference and curtain style. Here are some common options:
- Pin hooks: These are metal hooks that are inserted into the back of the pinch pleats and hook onto the rod or track. They are suitable for any type of rod or track, but require some sewing skills to attach them to the curtains.
- Clip rings: These are metal rings that have clips attached to them and clip onto the top edge of the pinch pleats. They are suitable for any type of rod, but may not work well with tracks.
- Pinch pleat tape: This is a fabric tape that has loops or tabs attached to it and is sewn onto the back of the pinch pleats. The loops or tabs hook onto the rod or track. They are suitable for any type of rod or track, but require some sewing skills to attach them to the curtains.
FAQs
Q: How do I measure for pinch pleat curtains without a metal measuring tape?
A: You can use a ruler, a yardstick, or a piece of string to measure for pinch pleat curtains without a metal measuring tape. Just make sure you use the same unit of measurement throughout and mark or cut the string at the right points.
Q: How do I measure for pinch pleat curtains with multiple windows?
A: You can measure for pinch pleat curtains with multiple windows by treating them as one large window or as separate windows, depending on how you want to hang your curtains. If you want to hang one curtain rod or track across all the windows, measure the width and height of the entire window area and follow the same steps as above. If you want to hang separate curtain rods or tracks for each window, measure the width and height of each window individually and follow the same steps as above.
Q: How do I measure for pinch pleat curtains with bay windows?
A: You can measure for pinch pleat curtains with bay windows by using a flexible metal measuring tape or a piece of string to follow the curve of the window. Measure the width and height of each section of the window and add them together to get the total width and height. Then follow the same steps as above to determine the length of your curtain rod or track and panels.
Q: How do I measure for pinch pleat curtains with uneven floors or ceilings?
A: You can measure for pinch pleat curtains with uneven floors or ceilings by using a level to make sure your curtain rod or track is parallel to the floor. Measure the height of your window from the top edge of the trim or the curtain rod or track to where you want your curtains to end at different points along the window and use the shortest measurement as your final height. Then follow the same steps as above to determine the width of your curtain rod or track and panels.
Wrap Up
Now that you know how to measure pinch pleat curtains, you can confidently shop for or make your own curtains that fit your windows perfectly. Remember to measure twice and cut once, and have fun with choosing colors, patterns, and textures that suit your style. Happy hanging!
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.
