Curtains and drapes can make even an ordinary room look more comfortable and luxurious. You can choose curtains or drapes in any color, pattern, and texture depending upon what constitutes a perfect room for you.
However, if you are planning to install new curtains or drapes on your own, make sure you know how to measure curtains or drapes required for a window before you head straight to a store in your neighborhood.
The 5 steps outlined below will guide you on how to measure curtains and drapes:
Step 1: Decide on the Mounting Technique
The measurements for curtains or drapes will vary depending upon the mounting technique.
Do you wish to mount the curtains inside or outside of the window frame? This will determine the type of mounting technique that needs to be deployed.
You can opt for outside or inside mount curtains.
The outside mount is more suitable for hanging curtains and covers more of the window frame. The curtain road, in this case, is secured to the wall, just outside of the window frame.
So, your window will look bigger. The curtains will provide greater coverage to restrict natural light.
Inside mounted curtains, on the other hand, will give a more finished look. The road, in this case, is fitted against the window frame.
The inside mounts style offers a minimalist look. It offers ample privacy but doesn’t completely restrict the natural light.
Step 2: Estimating the Required Length of Rod
The length of the rod depends on where you want to install it.
Inside trim mount: Curtains or drapes can be suspended from within the frame for a streamlined, modern look.
For a better fit, you can buy curtain rods that have an expandable design. Your window treatments – curtains or drapes – should be just as wide as the window interior in this case.
For a more gathered look, your window treatments can be a bit wider.
Below trim mount: This mounting style is preferred in case you want to showcase the design or molding of top of your window frame.
For the best result, get a rod that extends about 3 -5” beyond the width of the window frame on either side. It gives your window the illusion that they are wider.
Above trim mount: In this case, the rod is placed around 6-12” above the window frame.
Mounting curtain rods at a greater height gives a living space the illusion of taller ceilings.
The distance can be less or more depending upon the gap between the window frame and the ceiling. You may also want to consider the overall design scheme of a space.
For instance, if your drawing room has a high ceiling with custom-designed upholstery placed near the main window, the curtains can be hung as high as 20-25” above the window frame to create an elongated and luxurious appearance.
For the best results, you need to consider the
Step 3: Estimating the Required Length of Curtain
Next, the length of curtains required will depend on how you want to hang them.
The three most popular interior design styles for hanging curtains are:
- Above sill: When curtains hang ‘above sill,’ they generally sit around 1 cm above the windowsill.
- Below sill: When curtains hang ‘below sill,’ they go around 15 cm beyond the windowsill.
- Floor-length: In this case, curtains hang up to 1cm above the floor.
Step 4: Measure the Width of the Curtain
The width of drapes or curtains should typically be around 1.5 to 3 times the width of your window.
However, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences. Keep in mind that fuller curtains and drapes look more luxurious.
Often, window panels are sold separately. Therefore, you need to confirm whether the curtains you like are offered in pairs or you need to separately buy two pieces.
You can use a measuring tape for precise measurements. Alternatively, a blanket or a tablecloth can be used to measure the required width of the curtain.
Step 5: Measure the Length of the Curtain
All window treatments, whether curtains, drapes, or blinds, are measured width x length.
Here, the length of the curtain is measured from the top of the rod to the bottom of the panel.
The length of the curtain will depend on how you choose to hang curtains or drapes, as described in Step 3 above.
Final Words
Correct measurements can help you get window treatments that enhance the visual appeal of a room. Make sure that you spend enough time to do it right. There is no scope for any changes once you bring home curtains, drapes, and rods.
Custom-made drapery will no doubt provide the best results but it’s a more expensive option.
