Taking the measurements for the curtains to proceed with their subsequent fixing is a delicate procedure, often complex, to the point of being entrusted to professionals specialized in this type of work.

You must admit that in the absence of a minimum of manual skills and a strong practical sense, perhaps it’s appropriate to avoid making disasters and rely on those who are more skilled. We are here to provide you with some practical advice to follow if you want to proceed independently to assembling the curtains at home.

Step 1: The Window

Before buying curtains and sticks for their posting, you must take the measurements of the window you intend to cover and decorate. There are different windows in your home, depending on the shape, size, type and position. For example, you might have a large window in the dining room, which has different characteristics than the bathroom window, and so on.

Then, take the measurements of the window you are interested in, noting the width, height, distance from the ceiling and the floor, without forgetting the thickness of the sill and any box containing the blackout shutter in the upper part of the window.

Step 2: The Rod

Now that you have your window measurements, you can proceed with purchasing the stick you intend to use. In this case, you have to pay attention to the type of cane you will buy because they aren’t all the same.

Check the type of stick. There’re different types of curtain rods on the market, which differ from an aesthetic point of view and how the curtain is attached. This element directly affects the measurements because if the curtain is hooked through hooks, it will be lower than other solutions, such as the one involving the rod’s passage inside the curtain through slots.

What are the Measures To Mark?

  • Take a meter in your hand. Meticulously measure the length of your rod, which you can then fix on the wall or which is already hanging, without taking into account at the ends, which have a purely aesthetic purpose and therefore cannot be closed.
  • Remember that the curtain will have to cover the window completely, so adding a few inches to the rod size is essential.
  • Usually, we tend to add about 15-20 cm on both sides to ensure complete coverage.
  • It would be best to mark where to hang the stick on the wall.
  • In this case, unless there are obstacles- such as the shutter box- you need to calculate about 15 cm higher than the start of the window.

Step 3: Length of the Curtain

You have taken the measurements of the window, you have established where and how to hang the rod, now you have to decide the length of the curtain you will insert. There’re three different ways you can easily determine the length of the curtain:

  1. Sill height: The curtain stops about 1,5 cm before the start of the sill, usually in marble, thus covering only the window.
  2. Under the windowsill: The curtain covers the window sill, approximately 15 cm.
  3. To the floor: The curtain covers the window, the sill and reaches the bottom without touching it.

Step 4: One or Two Panels?

If you have followed all the steps described so far, you have taken the measurements of the window, the stick, chosen how and where to hang it and the type of hook. Now, you have to decide whether to buy a one-panel or two-panel curtain, whole or divided into two strips of fabric to be arranged symmetrically on the two sides of the window.

Usually, the choice also comes from the type of window to be covered with the curtain. A single-sash window requires a single-panel curtain, while a window with two or more wings requires a two-panel curtain.

Bonus Tip!

If you want to ensure that the measurements taken are accurate, we advise you not to trust the house’s walls and take an additional step. Since it often happens to find measures that don’t match each other due to differences in height along the walls, or the floor, it’s preferable to measure the window in three points, i.e. on the two sides and in the centre, to reduce the minimal chance of error.

If you have decided to embark on this adventure and take the measurements of the tents to proceed independently, this is what you will encounter. Today there’re more modern and innovative solutions that allow you to eliminate the problem of rods, measures and drapery, such as curtains in double glazing.

FAQ

Is Curtain Width the Width of One Curtain?

The curtain’s width measurement is essentially the actual width of each of your curtains in the pair. Because you will need exactly twice the width of your post for the total effect.

How Do You Measure Width of Ready-Made Curtains?

To calculate the exact curtain size you need, the total width of your curtain should not be less than twice the width of your window. We strongly recommend that you increase the fullness of your window by doubling the width of your window to give it an aesthetic and quality look.

Do You Double the Width for Curtains?

The net collection amount depends on your headline styles and your preferences. But typically, the width of your curtains should be greater than the width of your rail. You can double this rate.

How Wide Should Your Curtain Rods Be From Your Window?

First, you should definitely choose a curtain rod that can be much wider than your window. This ensures that your curtain is literally pulled to the edge of your window. Thus, it gives you a much more effective room look. The bar itself should be 9 to 13 inches longer than the width of your window. This allows 3 to 7 inches in both zones.

How Far Should Rod Extend Past Window?

Your curtain rods should extend the frame of your window a minimum of 3 to 7 inches. Hanging your curtain at the top of the window frame will make your window look much more comprehensive.