Grommet curtains are a popular choice for window treatments because they are easy to hang, slide smoothly along the rod, and create a modern and sleek look. But before you buy or make your own grommet 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 Grommet Curtains
To measure grommet curtains, you need to measure the width and length of your window, choose a curtain rod that matches the size of your grommets, 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 should be and how many curtain panels you need. To measure the width of your window, follow these steps:
- Use a tape measure to measure the width of your window from the outside edge of the trim on one side to the outside edge of the trim on the other side. Write down this measurement.
- Add 8 to 12 inches to this measurement to get the length of your curtain rod. This will allow you to extend the rod beyond the window frame and create a more spacious and elegant look.
- Divide the length of your curtain rod by two to get the width of each curtain panel. For example, if your curtain rod is 60 inches long, each panel should be 30 inches 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 grommet 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 wide and you want a fullness factor of two, each panel should be 60 inches wide.
How to Measure the Length of Your Window
The length of your window determines how long your curtain panels should be and how much they will cover your window. To measure the length of your window, follow these steps:
- Use a tape measure to measure the height of your window from the top edge of the trim to the bottom edge of the trim or the windowsill. Write down this measurement.
- Decide how high you want to hang your curtain rod above the window. A common rule of thumb is to hang it 6 to 12 inches 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 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 inch 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 that Matches Your Grommets
The size and shape of your grommets determine what kind of curtain rod you need and how much space you need between the wall and the back of the rod. To choose a curtain rod that matches your grommets, follow these steps:
- Measure the diameter of one grommet on your curtain panel, not including the metal rim. Subtract 1/2 inch from this measurement to get the maximum diameter of your curtain rod. For example, if your grommet has a diameter of 2 inches, your curtain rod should have a diameter of 1 1/2 inches or less.
- Measure the distance from the center of one grommet to the center of the next grommet on your curtain panel. Subtract 1 inch from this measurement and divide it by two to get the return. The return is the minimum distance you need between the wall and the back of the rod for your curtains to hang without dragging along the wall. For example, if the distance between grommets is 8 inches, your return should be 3 1/2 inches or more.
- Choose a curtain rod that has a diameter that fits your grommets and brackets that accommodate your return. You can also choose a rod that has decorative finials that complement your grommet curtain style and room decor. Just make sure the finials are not too large or bulky to interfere with the sliding of the curtains.
FAQs
Q: How do I measure for grommet curtains without a tape measure?
A: You can use a ruler, a yardstick, or a piece of string to measure for grommet curtains without a tape measure. 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 grommet curtains with multiple windows?
A: You can measure for grommet 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 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 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 grommet curtains with bay windows?
A: You can measure for grommet curtains with bay windows by using a flexible tape measure 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 and panels.
Q: How do I measure for grommet curtains with uneven floors or ceilings?
A: You can measure for grommet curtains with uneven floors or ceilings by using a level to make sure your curtain rod is parallel to the floor. Measure the height of your window from the top edge of the trim to where you want your curtains to start at different points along the window and use the shortest measurement as your final length. Then follow the same steps as above to determine the width of your curtain rod and panels.
Wrap Up
Now that you know how to measure grommet 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.
