HOW TO MEASURE
Curtains
We are delighted to see that you are ordering a set of custom made curtains for your home! Curtains are a timeless and versatile window covering solution that suit a wide range of interior design styles. Whatever vibe you have curated in your home, we know that we can create beautiful curtains to augment it 🧵
Of course, before you place your order you have to know what to ask for! We’re going to show you how to measure curtains so that they suit your window space perfectly. You don’t want to accidentally ask for the wrong length or width and end up with ill-fitting curtains that let all the sunlight in three feet from the ground 😤
We’re window covering experts with more than thirty years of experience in the industry, so we know a thing or two about measuring curtains the right way. This is what qualifies us to teach you how to measure curtains and make sure you place the right order.
Even if you’ve never picked up a tape measure before, we have your back when it comes to the DIY side of things. Measuring windows to have curtains custom made isn’t difficult, you just have to know the best practices. Take a look below for our advice on how to measure curtains:
Before Measuring
To ensure your new blinds are going to fit perfectly, take a moment to read over the below checklist.
Remember, if in doubt - give us a shout!
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- Supply all measurements in millimetres (mm)
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Use a reliable tape measure or a precise laser measure
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Double check all of your measurements, and make note of which measurement is width, and which is drop when recording your measurements - remember the wise old saying "measure twice, cut once!"
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When ordering multiple windows, ensure you measure each and every one as they may look similar, however they are unlikely to be the same exact measurements.
Fitting Options
Before measuring your windows, you should determine whether you want your curtains as a top fix or face fix. The major determining factor when choosing one over the other would be your aesthetic preference.
Top fix: mounted to the ceiling
Face fix: mounted on the architrave or wall space between the architrave and the ceiling
Face Fit
Top Fix
Note: Feel free to send us a photo of your window to hello@shadesbyyou.com.au
and we can help you determine which option is best.
Top Fixed Measuring
(Ceiling Mount)
Step 1: Measure the width
The width provided will determine the track length. If your preference is wall to wall, measure accordingly and deduct 10mm off the overall width.
Note: If you have cornices, measure from the inside of cornice to cornice.
If you'd prefer not to cover the entire wall, we would recommend adding at least 25% to the width of the window opening measurement to ensure the curtain won't cover the window when stacked back.
Example: For a window opening of 2000mm, we recommend ordering the track at 2500mm wide.
Step 2: Measure the drop
Measure the height of the ceiling to the floor in 3 different places.
Record all 3 measurements, and refer to the below recommended adjustments to suit your desired aesthetic.
Just off the floor: Deduct at least 5mm off your smallest drop measurement
Just on the floor: Add 5mm to your largest drop measurement
Sitting on the floor: Add 15-20mm to your largest drop measurement (add on accordingly for 'pooling' amount)
Width
Drop
Face Fit Measuring
Step 1: Measure the width
The width provided will determine the track/rod length, if your preference is wall to wall, measure accordingly and deduct 10mm off the overall width.
If you'd prefer not to cover the entire wall, we would recommend adding at least 25% to the width of the window opening measurement to ensure the curtain won't cover the window when stacked back.
Example: For a window opening of 2000mm, we recommend ordering the track at 2500mm wide.
Step 2: Measure the drop
Measure the height from the floor to the desired rod position.
Refer to the below recommended adjustments to suit your desired aesthetic.
Just off the floor: Deduct at least 5mm off your smallest drop measurement
Just on the floor: Add 5mm to your largest drop measurement
Sitting on the floor: Add 15-20mm to your largest drop measurement (add on accordingly for 'pooling' amount)
Width
Drop
We're here to help!
Whether it be a FaceTime call for advice on measure or fit, or you're interested in a virtual in-house consult, we WANT to help you!
Alternatively, you can email a photo of your window/room to hello@shadesbyyou.com.au
Happy measuring 🤩