Expert Guide: How To
Measure For Curtains
Use our simple step by step guides and videos to find out how to measure for curtain poles and curtain tracks.
Always use a metal rule when taking the measurements and provide measurements in cm (unless the website mm or inch options).
If replacing curtain poles or tracks, measure the width of the existing fitting rather than the window. If measuring a pole, do not include the finials (decorative ends) in your measurements.
Measuring The Width
Measure the curtain track or pole width, not the window width. We will make the calculations so your curtain fits perfectly onto your pole or track. If you are fitting a new track or poles this should extend 15cm to 20cm either side of the window. This will allow the curtains to be stacked either side of the window.
Curtain Poles
Measure the length of the pole between the finials (decorative ends).
Curtain Rails
Measure the length of the rail. If you have a rail with an overlap in the centre, measure the length of the rail and add the overlap to this measurement.
Measuring The Drop
The length of your curtains depends on your preference. Typical length measurements as follows.
A: Full length, which is approximately 1.5 to 3cm above the floor level
B: Above the radiator, typically 1 to 3cm above the radiator.
C:Below the window sill, typically around 15cm.
D:Please allow a small gap at the bottom if measuring to the floor, to avoid your curtains getting marked from touching the floor.
Tab Top & Eyelet Curtains
For Tab Top or eyelet curtains you should take your measurements from the very top of the curtain pole.
Pencil & Pinch Pleat
Measure from the top of the track or bottom of the curtain rings to the desired length of your curtains
Wave
We recommend purchasing our Surge track at the time of ordering your curtains. Measure from the bottom of the track to where you would like your curtains to finish. For the best finish, wave curtains should sit around 1cm-2cm from the floor.
Fulness or Gathering
Once you have entered your curtain pole or rail width, we will calculate the amount of fabric required for your curtains. Some headings require more fullness or gathering than others so these headings will require more fabric which is reflected in the price of the curtains.
All curtains are made in increments of 1/2 widths:
Pencil Pleat 1.75
Pinch Pleat 2.25
Wave Pleat 2.0
Tab Top 1.5
Eyelet 1.5
Track/Pole Width: 200cm.
We take your 200cm (width entered) and use the table above, so 200cm x 1.75 = 350cm. This is to allow for a generous gather. If a pair of curtains are ordered, each panel width in this example would be 175cm, working to the nearest half width of material. In essence, the amount of fabric you receive will be approximately double the Track/Pole width specified for pencil pleat.Please note, curtains will require a join if over 1 width of fabric.
Eyelets
You will need an eyelet larger than your pole diameter, to ensure that the eyelets can move freely along your pole. The table below should help you in making this decision
Eyelet Size | Suitable Pole Diameter |
---|---|
66mm | 45mm |
40mm | 35mm |
40mm | 28mm |
How do I know what size curtains to buy?
Do you measure each curtain?
How wide should curtains be?
If you don’t have a curtain pole, measure the width of the recess and add 30cm.
Can't Find What You're Looking For?
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