Curtains are a great way to add style, color and privacy to your windows. But curtains are not one size fits all. Depending on the size and shape of your window, the height of your ceiling and the look you want to achieve, you may need curtains that are longer than the standard lengths available in most stores. So, what are the longest curtains you can buy and how do you use them? In this post, we’ll answer these questions and more.
What Are The Standard Lengths For Curtains
Before we talk about the longest curtains you can buy, let’s review the standard lengths for curtains. Generally, curtains come in four common lengths: 63 inches, 84 inches, 95 inches and 108 inches. These lengths are measured from the top of the curtain rod to the bottom of the curtain hem. However, these lengths may vary slightly depending on the type and style of your curtain header, such as rod pocket, tab top, grommet or pleated.
The standard lengths for curtains are designed to fit most windows and ceilings in typical homes. However, they may not be suitable for windows that are very large, very small or very high. In that case, you may need to look for longer or shorter curtains to fit your window size and shape.
What Are The Longest Curtains You Can Buy
The longest curtains you can buy depend on the particular retailer you’re buying from, as well as the curtain material used. Generally, lighter materials such as sheer or linen can be made in lengths of up to 21 feet or more, while heavier fabrics such as velvet can often reach lengths of up to 12 feet.
However, finding ready-made curtains that are longer than 108 inches can be challenging, as they are not very common in most stores. You may need to shop online or look for specialty retailers that offer extra long curtains. Alternatively, you can also opt for custom-made curtains that are tailored to your exact window measurements and preferences.
How To Use Long Curtains
Long curtains can create different effects and looks for your window treatments, depending on how you hang them and how much fabric you use. Here are some tips on how to use long curtains:
- Choose a curtain length that suits your window size and shape: Generally, there are three main options for curtain length: sill length, floor length and puddle length. Sill length curtains end just above or below the window sill and are suitable for small windows or windows that open frequently. Floor length curtains end just above or touch the floor and are suitable for most windows and ceilings. Puddle length curtains end several inches below the floor and create a puddled effect on the ground. They are suitable for large windows, high ceilings and formal settings.
- Choose a curtain rod that fits your window size and shape: The curtain rod is another important factor that affects how your long curtains look. You can choose between inside mount or outside mount rods depending on whether you want to hang your curtains inside or outside the window frame. You can also choose between different types of rods such as decorative single rods, decorative double rods, concealed rods, traverse rods or tension rods depending on your curtain header and style.
- Choose a curtain style that matches your decor style: The curtain style is another important factor that affects how your long curtains look. You can choose between different types of headers such as rod pocket, tab top, grommet or pleated depending on how you want to hang your curtains and how much fullness you want to create. You can also choose between different types of fabrics such as sheer, linen, velvet or silk depending on how much light control and privacy you want and how much texture and color you want to add.
FAQs About Long Curtains
Here are some frequently asked questions about long curtains:
- How do I measure for long curtains? To measure for long curtains, you need to measure the width and length of your window and decide how you want to hang your curtains: inside or outside the frame. For the inside mount option, measure the width of the window opening from edge to edge. For the outside mount option, measure the width of the area you want to cover, adding some extra inches on each side for better coverage and light control. Then, measure the length of the area you want to cover from the top of the rod to where you want your curtains to end: sill level, floor level or puddle level. Add some extra inches for the curtain header and hem allowance.
- How do I install long curtains? To install long curtains, you need to follow the manufacturer’s instructions that come with your curtain rod and curtains. Generally, you will need a drill, a level, a tape measure, a pencil and some screws and anchors. First, mark the position of the brackets on the wall or window frame using a level and a pencil. Then, drill holes on the marked spots and insert the anchors. Next, attach the brackets to the wall or window frame using the screws. Finally, slide your curtains onto the rod and place the rod on the brackets.
- How do I choose long curtains for my room? To choose long curtains for your room, you should consider several factors, such as:
- The size and shape of your window: You should choose a curtain length that fits your window size and shape. For example, if you have a small or narrow window, you might want to go for sill length curtains that fit snugly inside the window frame. If you have a large or wide window, you might want to go for floor length or puddle length curtains that extend beyond the window frame.
- The height of your ceiling: You should choose a curtain length that matches your ceiling height. For example, if you have a low ceiling, you might want to go for floor length curtains that create an illusion of height. If you have a high ceiling, you might want to go for puddle length curtains that add some drama and elegance.
- The style of your decor: You should choose a curtain style that matches your decor style. For example, if you have a modern or minimalist decor, you might want to go for sheer or linen curtains that create a light and airy feel. If you have a traditional or farmhouse decor, you might want to go for velvet or silk curtains that create a cozy and luxurious feel.
Wrap Up
Long curtains are a great way to add style, color and privacy to your windows. But finding the right long curtains for your home can be tricky, as they are not very common in most stores. To help you find the right long curtains for your home, we explained what are the longest curtains you can buy and how to use them.
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.
