How to properly measure curtains!

Hi everyone I hope your all having a fantastic day!! I thought I would share with you some important tips how to measure curtains before hanging them! So here we go..

Curtains are often the focal point in a room. They can bring in colour, pattern, bring in style and warmth. They can help tie your entire space together. But do you know how to measure curtains correctly? When you’re are choosing the perfect curtains there is more to consider then just the width and length.

If your want to make a statement then I would suggest going with a full length curtain (these are also the more modern choice). Make sure they touch the ground or even get an extra long ones that puddle on the floor.

Curtains come with different headings so make sure to do a little research before purchasing your perfect pair.

Headings;

1-Eyelet

These curtains have metal rings sewn into the top to allow for a long uniform look.

2-Pencil pleats

These look like pencils hanging in a row.

3-Pinch pleats

This look gathers fabric in bunches and gives more informal look.

4-Wave

This has a more curving finish.

Pencil pleats, Pinch pleats and Wave can all be hung from a track, rail or pole.

Measuring the width for your curtains!

Before you start make sure to have a measuring tape, a piece of paper and pencil so you can write all of yours measurements down as you go along. This is important!

The track or pole should be hung about 6” above the window and be 6”-8” wider on each side.

If you want to make the ceilings in your home appear higher, then you should hang the track or pole as high to the ceiling as you can (not forgetting you need some extra inches for your curtains).

Most standard curtains come in the following widths; 46”, 66” or 90” to decide which one you need, measure the length of the rail or pole between the finials, not the window.

When you are done and have hung your curtains you want to make sure you achieve a full look! For instance if your decide to go with more of a sheer as opposed to a linen or cotton then you may need more fabric to achieve a fuller look. Sometimes I have purchased 4 panels as opposed to 2 to achieve this, it all depends on what look you are going for.

Measure the drop;

Ready made curtains are normally sold in the following sizes 54”, 72” and 90”. Be sure you measure the drop properly so you can make sure your curtains hit the floor, or give you that beautiful pooled look that you are going for.

Important: If your buying curtains with eyelets or tab tops measure from the top of the pole to allow room for the fabric that will sit on the top of the pole.

For pencil pinch, pleat or weave headings measure either the top of the track or bottom of the rings on a pole, depending on the look you’re wanting to achieve.

If you have decided to go with sill length curtains then the rule is they should sit about 1cm above the sill.

If standard curtains won’t work for you, then you should consider having custom ones created that you can fit to size. You will also get much more selection with your prints, colours and fabrics if you go this route.

Care instructions: Most standard curtains are packed tight and will probably need a light ironing or even better use a steamer to get out all the creases and wrinkles. Be sure to read the care instructions first to make sure the product can handle the heat. If your lucky enough you may find some that are even machine washable and if not then they will need to be dry cleaned.