How to Measure Your Custom Curtains Some Important Points Before You Begin Decorators Market does not add or subtract any measurement allowances and will manufacture precisely according to the dimensions that you specify on your order. If you require any assistance with making any allowances, please contact us and we will be happy to provide you with further advice. Decorators Market recommends using a retractable metal tape to measure your curtains. Never assume that your windows, floors and ceilings are perfectly square. Measure at several points across the window and work off the smallest measurement. Decorators Market processes your order in millimetres. Be very careful of making errors when converting feet and/or inches, or centimetres to millimetres. For more information and advice about designing your bespoke window dressings refer to the following sections.
Measuring the Curtain Width The width of the heading on your curtains is determined by the length of your track or rod. If you already have a rod or track on your window, measure the full length excluding the finials. If you are measuring for a new rod or track, simply following these easy steps: STEP 1: Measurement A Measure the width of the window from outside edge to outside edge (including the frame), indicated by A in the diagram. When measuring for curtains it s important to take in to account their overall footprint in the room. Make sure their projection won t be obstructing any doorways, thoroughfares, furniture or cupboard doors.
STEP 2: Measurement B Curtain Stacking Add to the raw width of the window an allowance for curtain stacking so that the fabric can sit off the glass when the curtains are open. Centre-opening curtains will have a stacking allowance on both sides of the window. A one-way draw curtain may only require stacking on one side. There are no hard and fast rules for determining stacking space but a general guide is to add one third of your window width to each side. Ideally your stacking space should not be less than 150mm each side. Please contact Decorators Market if you would like further guidance on judging your required stacking allowance. Step 3: A + B = C The raw width of your window (A) plus stacking allowance (B) equates to the total length of your track or rod (C). Submit this final measurement in millimetres to Decorators Market.
Measuring the Curtain Drop Once you have determined the width of your rod or track, you need to decide how high you would like the curtains to sit. Decorators Market recommends installing your rod or track no less than 100mm above the top of the window frame. This distance will ensure adequate overall coverage which will maximise the thermal benefits of the curtains and create a nicely proportioned overall look to your windows. Curtains hung from ceiling height will emphasise the vertical lines in your room, making your ceilings appear taller and your room will naturally feel more spacious.
Measuring the Drop of Your Curtains According to your Hanging System Measuring the drop of your curtains is easier if the rod is already installed. So if you are at all in doubt about determining the finished drop of your curtains, Decorators Market recommends installing your rods or tracks before ordering your custom curtains. Where to measure from on your rod or track For pleated curtains on a pole and ring set, measure from the base of the ring to your desired length. For S-Fold curtains on either a rod or track, measure from the top of the tape to your desired length
For pleated curtains hung from a rod with an internal tracking system, measure from the base of the rod to your desired length. For curtains with eyelot, tab-top and pocket headings, measure from the top of the curtain pole to your desired length.
Deciding On Your Finished Length There are three common lengths for curtains: Floor length Floor length curtains are the most popular style of curtain length because they provide full coverage for insulation, privacy and light control. Sill length Sill length curtains are sometimes used in wet areas like kitchens, laundries or bathrooms. Finishing the curtain at the sill provides adequate screening or privacy while keeping the fabric away from any water. Below sill length Below sill length curtains are often used as a design choice in children s rooms because they provide good coverage, while maximising floor space for toys, games and furniture. The correct curtain length is a matter of personal style and practicality. If you have pets or small children, you may prefer having your curtains just off the floor so they don t collect too much dust and dirt. Sill length curtains are great in kid s rooms to maximise floor space and avoid your drapes becoming part of a game of hide & seek.