Cafe curtains are a charming and practical way to dress up your windows. They are short curtains that cover only the lower half of the window, leaving the upper half open for natural light and views. They are perfect for adding some privacy and style to your kitchen, bathroom, or any room where you want a cozy and casual feel.
But how do you measure for cafe curtains, and what are the things you need to consider? In this post, I will show you how to measure for cafe curtains in four easy steps. You’ll learn how to measure the width and length of your window, how to determine the size of your curtain panels, how to choose the right rod and hardware, and how to hang your cafe curtains like a pro.
How do you measure for cafe curtains?
To measure for cafe curtains, you need to measure the width and length of your window, multiply the width by two to get the total curtain width, divide the total curtain width by the number of panels you want, add some extra inches for hems and seams, and subtract some inches for tiebacks if you want them.
Here are the four steps to measure for cafe curtains:
Step 1: Measure the width of your window
Use a tape measure to measure the width of your window from one side to the other. This will be your window width. Write down this measurement in inches.
Step 2: Measure the length of your window
Use a tape measure to measure the length of your window from the top to the bottom. This will be your window length. Write down this measurement in inches.
Step 3: Determine the size of your curtain panels
To determine the size of your curtain panels, you need to do some simple calculations:
- To get the total curtain width, multiply your window width by two. This will give you enough fabric for fullness and gathers. For example, if your window width is 36 inches, your total curtain width will be 72 inches.
- To get the number of panels you want, divide your total curtain width by two or four. This will give you either two or four panels, depending on how many you prefer. For example, if your total curtain width is 72 inches, you can have either two panels of 36 inches each or four panels of 18 inches each.
- To get the individual panel width, divide your total curtain width by the number of panels you want. This will give you the exact width of each panel. For example, if your total curtain width is 72 inches and you want two panels, your individual panel width will be 36 inches.
- To get the individual panel length, subtract four inches from your window length. This will give you enough fabric to cover the lower half of the window without touching the sill or floor. For example, if your window length is 48 inches, your individual panel length will be 44 inches.
- To get the final panel size, add two inches to both the individual panel width and length. This will give you enough fabric for hems and seams on all sides. For example, if your individual panel width is 36 inches and your individual panel length is 44 inches, your final panel size will be 38 x 46 inches.
Step 4: Choose the right rod and hardware
To choose the right rod and hardware for your cafe curtains, you need to consider these factors:
- The rod should be long enough to span across your window with some extra inches on both ends for finials or brackets.
- The rod should be strong enough to hold the weight of your curtains without sagging or bending.
- The rod should match or complement the style and color of your curtains and room decor.
- The hardware should be suitable for your wall type and easy to install.
- The hardware should match or complement the rod and curtain style.
Some common options for rods and hardware are:
- Metal rods with finials or end caps for a sleek and modern look
- Wood rods with finials or end caps for a warm and rustic look
- Tension rods that fit snugly inside the window frame without any hardware for an easy and flexible look
- Cafe rings that slide onto the rod and clip onto the curtains for a simple and classic look
- Hooks that attach to the wall above or below the window frame and hold up the curtains with loops or ties for a creative and whimsical look
How to hang cafe curtains
Once you have measured for cafe curtains and chosen the right rod and hardware, you can hang them following these steps:
- Install the rod brackets on the wall above or below the window frame according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Make sure they are level and aligned with the edges of the window.
- Slide the rod into the brackets and secure it with screws or pins if needed.
- Slide the cafe rings onto the rod if you are using them.
- Attach the curtain panels to the rod using the cafe rings, clips, hooks, loops, or ties, depending on your curtain style. Arrange them evenly along the rod.
- Adjust the position and length of the curtains as needed. You can tie them back with ribbons or ropes, or leave them loose for a more casual look.
Final words
Cafe curtains are a lovely and practical way to dress up your windows. They are easy to measure and hang, and they can add some privacy and style to your room. By following these steps and tips, you can measure for cafe curtains and hang them like a pro. You can also experiment with different fabrics, colors, and patterns to create your own unique look. Have fun and enjoy your new window treatment.
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.
