Buying custom curtains can feel straightforward until someone asks you, “What size do you need?” That is usually when the tape measure comes out, and the doubts begin. Do you measure the window itself? How far should the curtains extend? Should they reach the floor? And how much wider should the curtains be than the window? Getting these measurements right is important because custom curtains are made to suit your particular window, not a standard size. The good news is that you can get a pretty good idea of what you need at home before placing your order.
How wide should my curtains be?
Measure the width of the area you want the curtains to cover. If you already have a curtain track or rod, measure its full length, not just the window frame. If you haven’t installed one yet, think about where you want the curtains to sit and how far you want them to extend past the window on either side. Now, here is something many homeowners miss: your curtain width is not simply the width of the window. Curtains need extra fabric to form natural folds when closed. The amount of fullness you need depends on the fabric and the curtain heading, so check with your curtain provider rather than guessing.
What length should my curtains be?
This depends on the look you want and where your curtains will hang. For floor-length curtains, measure from the point where the track or rod will be installed down to the floor. If you want the curtains to sit just above the floor, leave a small gap. You can also let them lightly touch the floor for a softer appearance. For curtains covering a window without reaching the floor, measure from the top of the track or rod to your preferred finishing point. Avoid measuring only from the bottom of the window because the position of your curtain hardware changes the final curtain length.
What if my window isn’t perfectly level?
Don’t worry if the three height measurements differ slightly. Walls, ceilings and floors can have small variations. Measure the height on the left, in the centre and on the right, and give all the measurements to your curtain provider. The same applies to the width: check the top, middle and bottom.
A few things worth checking before you order
Take a look around the window before finalising your measurements. Window handles, air vents, furniture, doors and power points can all affect how your curtains hang or open. If you are replacing existing curtains, measuring the current track or rod can also give you a useful starting point. Take a photo of the window and keep your measurements labelled by room. It sounds simple, but it can save you from mixing up measurements when you have several windows to cover.
Final thoughts
Measuring for custom curtains isn’t difficult, but small details can make a noticeable difference to the finished look. Take your time, measure more than once, and don’t guess how much fullness or fabric you need. If you’re unsure about the measurements or the best curtain length for your room, getting professional advice before ordering can save you from an expensive mistake.
