How To Measure Curtain Panels For Windows

Well, bust my buttons and call me sassy! We’re back again, darlings, to dish about them curtain panels. Before you start hacking away at that fabric, you better learn how measure them lengths and widths first. Curtain panels that are too short will leave them windows feelin’ more exposed than a newborn babe, while panels 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.

Choose the right curtain style

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

• Windowsill panels: These are shorter panels that end at the windowsill. They are best suited for kitchens and bathrooms where windows tend to be elevated.
• Apron panels: These are longer panels 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 panels: These are the longest panels 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 panels: These are extra-long panels 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 curtain panels to be. Generally, you want your curtain panels to be at least two or three times wider than your window or the rod for a full appearance.

Choose the right curtain rod

The next step to measuring curtain panels is to choose the right curtain rod for your window and curtain style. 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 curtain panels, such as eyelet, tab top, grommet, rod pocket, etc.

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

Measure the length of your curtain panels

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

• To measure windowsill panels, measure from the top of the curtain rod to the windowsill and subtract 1 cm (0.5 inch). This will prevent your panels from touching or dragging on the windowsill.
• To measure apron panels, measure from the top of the curtain rod to 15 cm (6 inches) below the windowsill.
• To measure floor-length panels, measure from the top of the curtain rod to the floor and subtract 1 cm (0.5 inch). This will prevent your panels from touching or dragging on the floor.
• To measure puddle panels, measure from the top of the curtain rod 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 curtain panels

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

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

Q: How do I measure for different types of curtain panels?

A: Different types of curtain panels may have different ways of measuring. For example, eyelet panels are measured from the top of the eyelet to where you want them to end, while pinch pleat panels 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 curtain panels 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 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. You should also measure each section of the window separately and add them together to get the total width of your curtain panels.

Q: How do I measure for lined or blackout curtain panels?

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

Wrap up

Now you’ve got the 411 on measuring curtain panel 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 curtain panels will be flowing smoother than mint juleps at a plantation ball. 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 panel 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.