How to Measure for Curtains – Complete Guide
Accurate measurements are essential for custom curtains. This comprehensive guide will help you measure your windows correctly to ensure your custom curtains fit perfectly. Follow our step-by-step instructions for professional results.
What You'll Need:
- Metal measuring tape (recommended for accuracy)
- Pencil or masking tape for marking
- Step ladder (if needed)
- Helper (optional but recommended)
- Notepad to record measurements
Important: All measurements should be taken in inches. Measure twice to ensure accuracy. If you need assistance, contact us at info@romancurtain.com for free consultation.
Step 1: Measure and Mark for Rod Installation
If Your Curtain Rod is Already Installed
Simply measure the length of the rod from end to end and note the measurement. This will be your rod width.
If the Rod is Not Yet Installed
Decide where you want the rod to be positioned above and around the window frame. Consider the desired visual effect when determining the height and width.
Height Above the Window Frame
For an enhanced appearance and to create the illusion of taller windows, curtain rods are commonly placed 6-10 inches above the window frame.
- Standard Height: 6-8 inches above the frame for most rooms
- Dramatic Effect: 8-10 inches above for higher ceilings
- Ceiling Mount: For maximum height illusion, mount as close to the ceiling as possible
How to Mark: Use a pencil or masking tape to lightly mark this height as a guide. Use a level to ensure the marks are even on both sides.
Width Beyond the Window Frame
Typically, adding 6-15 inches of width on each side of the window frame allows enough space for the curtains to stack neatly when open, maximizing natural light.
- Minimum Extension: 6 inches on each side for narrow windows
- Standard Extension: 10-12 inches on each side for most windows
- Maximum Extension: 15 inches on each side for wide windows or dramatic effect
How to Mark: Mark these points lightly with a pencil or use masking tape to ensure accurate placement.
Understanding Curtain Fullness
To ensure your curtains look full and luxurious, the right amount of fullness (fabric width) should be added, depending on the style of the curtain header.
| Header Style | Fullness Ratio | Description |
|---|---|---|
|
Flat Styles (Grommet, Rod Pocket, Tab Top) |
2x - 2.5x | Multiply rod width by 2 to 2.5 for proper fullness |
|
Pinch Pleat (Double Pleat, Tailor Pleat, Inverted Pleat, Goblet) |
2x | Fullness built into pleating design |
|
Triple Pleat (Triple Pleat, Triple Tailor Pleat) |
2.3x | Extra fullness for luxurious appearance |
| Ripple Fold | 2.1x | Consistent wave pattern across the width |
Note: For pleated styles, the fullness is already calculated and built into our pricing. You only need to provide your rod width.
Step 2: Calculate the Curtain Panel Width
The panel width calculation depends on your chosen header style. Use the appropriate formula below:
Flat Top Styles (Grommet, Rod Pocket, Back Tab, Tab Top, Flat Panel)
Formula:
Panel Width = (Rod or Track Width × Fullness) ÷ Number of Panels
Example Calculation:
- Rod Width: 100 inches
- Fullness: 2x (for grommet style)
- Number of Panels: 2
- Panel Width = (100 × 2) ÷ 2 = 100 inches per panel
Pleated Top Styles (Pinch Pleat, Euro Pleat, Tailor Pleat)
Formula:
Panel Width = Rod or Track Width ÷ Number of Panels
Example Calculation:
- Rod Width: 120 inches
- Number of Panels: 2
- Panel Width = 120 ÷ 2 = 60 inches per panel
Note: For pleated styles, fullness is already included in the design. The fabric width will be approximately 2x-2.3x the finished width.
Ripple Fold
Formula:
Panel Width = Rod or Track Width ÷ Number of Panels
Important Note: The top width is used for the calculation, while the bottom width will be approximately 2.1 times larger due to the ripple fold effect.
Estimating Rod Width (If Not Yet Installed)
If you haven't selected a rod or track yet, estimate the rod/track width by:
- Measure the window frame width
- Add 6-15 inches on each side (12-30 inches total)
- This gives you an approximate rod width
Example: Window frame width is 60 inches + 12 inches on each side = 84 inches estimated rod width
Step 3: Calculate the Curtain Panel Length
The panel length calculation varies by header style and desired bottom finish. Follow the appropriate formula below:
Flat Top Styles (Grommet, Rod Pocket, Back Tab, Tab Top)
Formula:
Panel Length = Distance from top of rod to floor + Distance above rod + Bottom length adjustment
Measurement Steps:
- Measure from the top of the rod to the floor
- Add the distance the fabric extends above the rod (typically 1-3 inches depending on header style)
- Add or subtract for desired bottom length (see options below)
Pleated Top Styles (Pinch Pleat, Euro Pleat, Tailor Pleat)
Formula:
Panel Length = Desired curtain top height to floor + Bottom length adjustment
Measurement Steps:
- Measure from where you want the top of the curtain to be (typically at or just below the rod) to the floor
- Add or subtract for desired bottom length (see options below)
Ripple Fold
Formula:
Panel Length = Distance from bottom of track to floor + Bottom length adjustment
Bottom Length Options
| Bottom Style | Adjustment | Description | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1/2" Above Floor | Subtract 1/2" | Curtains hover just above the floor | High-traffic areas, easy cleaning |
| Kiss the Floor | No adjustment (0) | Curtains just touch the floor | Most popular, clean modern look |
| 1/2" Break | Add 1/2" | Slight fabric break at the floor | Elegant, tailored appearance |
| Puddle (Light) | Add 2" | Gentle fabric puddle | Formal rooms, romantic style |
| Puddle (Full) | Add 4" | Dramatic fabric puddle | Luxury spaces, formal settings |
Recommendation: For most homes, we recommend "Kiss the Floor" or "1/2" Break" for a clean, professional appearance that's easy to maintain.
Measurement Checklist
Before placing your order, verify you have:
| Measurement | Your Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rod/Track Width | _____ inches | End to end measurement |
| Window Height | _____ inches | Top of rod to floor |
| Number of Panels | _____ | Typically 2 for standard windows |
| Header Style | _____ | Affects fullness calculation |
| Bottom Length Preference | _____ | Kiss floor, puddle, etc. |
Common Measuring Mistakes to Avoid
- Using a cloth tape measure: Use a metal measuring tape for accuracy
- Measuring only once: Always measure twice to confirm
- Forgetting to account for baseboards: Measure to the floor, not the baseboard
- Not considering furniture: Ensure curtains won't catch on furniture when opening/closing
- Ignoring ceiling height: Higher rod placement makes rooms appear taller
- Measuring in different units: Stick to inches throughout all measurements
Special Situations
Bay Windows
Measure each section separately and order individual panels for each section. Contact us for assistance with complex bay window configurations.
French Doors
Measure the door width and add 6-12 inches on each side. Consider the door swing direction when determining rod placement.
Sliding Glass Doors
Measure the entire door width and add 12-18 inches on each side to allow curtains to stack completely off the glass when open.
Arched Windows
For arched windows, measure the straight portion below the arch. Contact us at info@romancurtain.com for custom arch solutions.
Free Measuring Resources
ROMAN CURTAIN provides free resources to help you measure accurately:
- Free Fabric Swatches: Order up to 5 free samples to see and feel the quality
- Measuring Consultation: Email us your measurements for verification before ordering
- Installation Guide: Detailed instructions included with every order
- Customer Support: Contact us anytime for measuring assistance
Ready to Order?
Once you have your measurements:
- Order Free Swatches: See and feel the fabric quality before purchasing
- Verify Measurements: Double-check all measurements
- Select Your Style: Choose header style, fabric, and lining options
- Enter Measurements: Input your exact measurements during checkout
- Review Order: Confirm all details before submitting
Production Time: Custom curtains are made-to-order with a lead time of 5-10 business days. Shipping takes an additional 15-25 business days (standard) or 10-15 business days (expedited).
Need Help?
If you're unsure about any measurements or have questions:
Email: info@romancurtain.com
Subject Line: "Measuring Assistance"
Website: romancurtain.com
Our team is here to help ensure your custom curtains fit perfectly. We offer free measuring consultations and will verify your measurements before production begins.
Accuracy Guarantee
At ROMAN CURTAIN, we understand that accurate measurements are crucial for custom curtains. That's why we:
- Provide detailed measuring guides and visual aids
- Offer free measuring consultation via email
- Verify measurements before production begins
- Create curtains to your exact specifications
- Stand behind our quality with our warranty program
Important: Because all curtains are custom-made to your measurements, please ensure accuracy before ordering. Review our Refund Policy for information about measurement errors.
Last Updated: October 2025
