How to Measure for Curtains: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide
Measuring for curtains may seem simple, but getting accurate measurements is essential if you want your curtains to hang beautifully and fit your windows perfectly. Whether you're buying ready-made curtains or ordering custom ones, the right measurements ensure proper fullness, coverage, and style.
This easy guide walks you through everything you need to measure for curtains, including measuring for curtain rods, width, drop (length), and special window types.
Understanding What You Need Before Measuring:
Before you begin measuring, decide:
Where the curtain rod will be placed
Which curtain style you’re using (eyelet, rod pocket, tab top, pencil pleat, pinch pleat, etc.)
How long you want the curtains to fall (sill length, below sill, or floor length)
Whether you want single panels or a pair
Once these choices are made, you can start measuring with confidence.
How to Measure Curtain Width?
Curtain width depends on the curtain rod, not the window frame alone. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Measure Your Curtain Rod
Use a measuring tape to get the full length of the rod, excluding decorative finials.
If you haven’t installed a rod yet, measure your window width and add:
10–15 cm (4–6 inches) to each side for standard fullness
More, if you want dramatic, wide-drawn curtains
The added width prevents light gaps and makes windows look larger.
Step 2: Determine Curtain Fullness
Curtains should be wider than the rod so they look rich and gathered, not flat.
General fullness rules:
Pencil pleat or pinch pleat: 2x the rod width
Eyelet or grommet: 1.5x the rod width
Rod pocket: 1.5x to 2x depending on how gathered you want them
Example:
If your rod is 200 cm, your curtain width should be 300–400 cm across both panels.
Step 3: Split the Width if Using Two Panels
Most windows use a pair of curtains.
For a pair:
Divide the total width by 2 so each panel gathers evenly on either side.
How to Measure Curtain Length (Drop)?
Curtain length depends on your preferred look. The drop is measured from the top of the rod or track to the desired endpoint.
Choose Your Curtain Length Style
There are three main lengths:
Sill Length
Curtains hang just above the windowsill—great for kitchens and bathrooms.Below Sill Length
Curtains end 15–20 cm (6–8 inches) below the sill—good for casual rooms.Floor Length
Curtains kiss or hover just above the floor—clean, modern, and elegant.Puddled Length
Curtains extend 10–20 cm (4–8 inches) onto the floor—luxurious and dramatic.
Measuring for Different Curtain Heading Styles
Curtain headings affect where you start measuring from.
Eyelet Curtains (Grommets)
Measure from the top of the rod to the desired length.
Add 2–3 cm extra above the rod for the fabric header, depending on your style.
Pencil Pleat / Pinch Pleat (Track or Rod)
If using a track, measure from the top of the track.
If using a rod, measure from the top of the curtain ring to the final length.
Rod Pocket Curtains
Measure from the top of the rod because the rod sits inside the fabric pocket.
Measuring for Curtain Tracks:
For track systems (like ripple fold or S-fold), measure:
Width: end cap to end cap
Drop: from the top of the track down to the length you want
Tracks generally give a cleaner, streamlined look and are great for floor-length curtains.
Special Window Types and How to Measure Them:
Bay Windows
Measure each section separately.
Add extra fullness so the curtain panels gather properly around the curves.
Patio or Sliding Glass Doors
Mount the rod 20–30 cm (8–12 inches) above the door frame.
Measure the drop to the floor.
For width, add at least 30 cm (12 inches) beyond the door frame to allow full stacking.
Tall or Extra-Wide Windows
Use sturdy rods and ensure that curtain fullness is at least 2x the width.
Floor-length curtains work best for tall windows.
Measuring for Curtain Rod Placement:
Where you mount the rod affects the entire look.
Follow these guidelines:
Mount rods 10–20 cm (4–8 inches) above the window frame for a taller look
Extend rods 10–15 cm (4–6 inches) past each side of the window
For a dramatic “hotel look,” mount rods closer to the ceiling
Raising the rod makes the room feel larger, and widening the rod allows more natural light when curtains are open.
Tips to Avoid Common Measuring Mistakes:
Always use a metal measuring tape for accuracy
Measure twice to double-check
Decide the heading style before measuring
For floor-length curtains, leave a 1–1.5 cm gap above the floor to avoid dragging
If your floor is uneven, measure both left and right sides of the window
When in doubt, go wider and longer—it’s easier to adjust than to add fabric later
Final Thoughts: Getting the Perfect Curtain Fit
Measuring for curtains doesn’t have to be complicated. By taking accurate width and length measurements and considering heading style, rod placement, and fullness, you’ll ensure your curtains hang beautifully every time. Whether you're installing new curtains in a living room, bedroom, or office, precise measuring helps you achieve a polished, professional look.
