Leaving your windows bare means you’re missing out on the opportunity to make a big design statement. The right curtain and draperies can complete the look and feel of your entire home. Additionally, they can provide privacy, filter sunlight, and regulate temperature. However, if your window treatments don’t fit well, they’ll fall short in doing all of those things, which is the last thing you want. And that’s why we’ve laid out exactly how to determine what size your curtains should be and how to measure for curtains in this guide.

1. Determine the Mount

The first step is to determine whether you want to mount your curtains to the outside or to the inside of the window frame. Each mounting style offers a distinct aesthetic, so it all boils down to what you prefer.

Outside mounting is often the most popular. This technique can make the window look larger, provide full coverage that blocks out natural light, and create a more luxurious look. Inside mounting, on the other hand, create a more streamlined appearance that can be considered modern and minimalistic. And while they don’t block out as much light, they still provide plenty of privacy.

2. Determine the Rod Length

As a general rule, curtain rods extend 3 to 6 inches past a window frame, mainly due to brackets and finials. However, considering that rods can be hung in various places–inside, below, or above trim mount–where you hang them will affect the length.

For a streamlined, tailored look, suspend curtains from within the window frame. Curtains or drapes should only be about as wide as the interior of the window, however, you can go slightly wider if you prefer a gathered look.
If the top of your window frame has beautiful molding, opt for mounting the curtain rod just below the trim. This will let you showcase the details while still getting the privacy you want.
When mounting above the trim, aim to place the rod 6 to 12 inches above the frame. For an elongated or wider appearance, hang your curtains even higher than that and extend the rod to a longer position.

3. Choose the Curtain Length

The design style you wish to achieve is what will determine the right length for your curtains. You can hang your curtains one of three ways, depending on the look you’re going for:

Above the sill, positioned about 1 cm above the windowsill
Below the sill, positioned about 15 cm below the windowsill
Floor-length, where curtains end up about 1 cm above the floor

4. Measure for Width

Generally, curtain widths should be about 1 ½ to 3 times the final width measurement of your window. With that said, you may need to go fuller in order to achieve a particular look. For example, fuller curtains will give you a richer, more dramatic look, where a narrower width creates a more streamlined, tailored look.

An important thing to remember is that most curtain or drapery panels are sold separately, not as a pair, so be sure to check that you’re getting all you need. If they are sold separately, make sure you double the curtain panel’s listed width.

5. Measure for Length

Your curtain length is the distance from the rod pocket to the very end of the panel (not from the actual top of the curtain if there is fabric above the rod pocket). Ultimately, the length you choose for your curtains will depend on what hanging method you choose as well as the look you want to achieve. To get an accurate reading, place the measuring tape at the bottom of the window frame (or from inside the top corner) and then measure down to your desired length.

Keep in mind that curtains usually come in only a few different lengths: 63 inches, 84 inches, 95 inches, 108 inches, and 120 inches. If you are in need of a different length, there is always the option of having your curtain or drapery panels custom made. While they are a bit more expensive than what you can pick up off the shelf, they’ll be tailor-made to achieve exactly the look you want in regards to color, pattern, texture, and overall style.

Ready to get those beautifully dressed windows you’ve always dreamed of? Come stop by one of our showrooms near Irving, TX to see our gorgeous selection of fabric and let us show you how to get that ideal fit!