Step 1: Measure for a New Curtain Pole or Track

(Please skip this step if there is an existing pole or track you intend to use)

First we need to measure the inside width of the window recess. (Measure A)

Next, decide how far your curtains will over-hang the wall, each side of the window. This would normally be around 20cm (8 inches) each side and enables the curtains to open wider, allowing more daylight to enter the room. (Measure B)

Now add A + B + B. This will give us the length of the track or pole needed (C), excluding finals.

Step 2: Measure for Curtains Width

(If you skipped step 1, measure your track/pole (excluding finals), this will give you measurement (C).)

When you measure for curtains width, it is important to consider the ‘gather’.

To have curtains with a medium gather when closed, we take our track/pole measurement (C), multiply it by 1.5 then divide by 2. The result is the required width of Each curtain.

For curtains with full/normal gather when closed, measurement C would be the required width of Each curtain.

If you desire a heavy gather, multiply measurement C by 2.5 then divide by 2. Again, the result is the required width of Each curtain.

Ok, we’ve now established the width of our curtains. Here’s how we work out the length.

Step 3: Measure for Curtains Drop / Length

Before we can measure for curtains length, we need to decide whether our curtains will fall to the sill, below the sill or to the floor.

1 – Sill length curtains usually finish 1/2 inch (1.25cm) above the sill.

2 – Curtains that fall below the sill usually finish 15cm (6 inches) below. This, of course, can be adjusted for personal preference.

3 – For floor length curtains you should allow 1 inch (2.5cm) clearance to avoid dragging.

Now, with your track/pole fitted 6-8 inches (15-20cm) above the window recess, measure from the top edge of the track/pole to your chosen finished length.

For Tab-top and all types of pleated curtains, write down your measurement.

For Eyelet/Ring top curtains, write down your measurement and add 1.5 inches (3.5cm) (This is the distance from the inner edge of the eyelet to the top edge of the curtain).