Measuring curtains for a pole involves two key steps: first, determining the correct size for the pole itself, and then measuring the width and drop needed for the curtains to fit and hang properly from that pole. Getting these measurements right ensures your curtains look great and function effectively.
Measuring for the Curtain Pole
Before you can measure for the curtains, you need to measure the space where the pole will go to determine its required length. According to the reference, you should "Take a metal tape measure. And measure the width of your window." The reference also mentions "Then if you have space...", implying you should account for space beyond the window.
Here’s a breakdown:
- Window Width: Measure the width of the window frame using a metal tape measure.
- Add Overlap/Stack Back: To allow the curtains to be pulled clear of the window when open (this is called stack back) and to minimize light leakage when closed, it's recommended to extend the pole beyond the window frame on both sides. A general guideline is to add at least 15-30 cm (6-12 inches) to each side of the window frame measurement. Add these amounts to your window width to get the total required pole length.
- Example: If your window is 150 cm wide, and you want to add 20 cm on each side for stack back, your required pole length is 150 cm + 20 cm + 20 cm = 190 cm.
Measuring for the Curtains
Once your pole length is determined (or installed), you can measure for the curtains themselves. You need two main measurements: the width of the fabric panels and the drop (length) of the curtains.
Curtain Width
Curtain width is measured based on the pole length. You need to measure the full length of the pole (excluding finials). The fabric width you need will be significantly wider than the pole length to allow for 'fullness' – the pleats or gathers that give curtains their luxurious look when closed.
- How to Calculate Fabric Width:
- Measure the full length of the curtain pole.
- Multiply the pole length by a fullness factor.
- Common fullness factors range from 1.5x (for a less full, more modern look, suitable for wave or eyelet headings) to 2.5x or 3x (for a very full, traditional look with pencil pleat or gathered headings).
- This calculation gives you the total fabric width needed across all your curtain panels (usually two per window).
- Example: If your pole is 190 cm long and you want 2x fullness, you need a total fabric width of 190 cm * 2 = 380 cm. If you have two panels, each panel needs to be at least 190 cm wide (before hems).
Curtain Drop (Length)
The drop is the measurement from where the curtain attaches to the pole down to where you want the bottom of the curtain to finish.
- Starting Point: For pole headings like eyelets or tab tops, measure from the top of the pole. For headings that use rings (like pencil pleat with hooks), measure from the underside of the pole where the ring sits.
- Ending Point:
- Sill Length: Finishes just above the window sill.
- Below Sill: Finishes about 10-15 cm (4-6 inches) below the sill.
- Floor Length: Finishes about 1-2 cm (1/2 inch) above the floor or carpet.
- Puddle Length: Extends onto the floor for a dramatic effect.
Measure the drop in at least three places along the width of the pole, as sills and floors can be uneven. Use the shortest measurement for sill/below sill length or the longest measurement for floor/puddle length to avoid curtains being too short or pooling excessively in one spot.
Common Curtain Drop Finish Points
| Finish Point | Description | Measurement Guide |
|---|---|---|
| Sill Length | Just clears the window sill. | Measure to just above the sill. |
| Below Sill | Extends slightly below the sill. | Measure to desired point 10-15cm below sill. |
| Floor Length | Hovering just above the floor. | Measure to 1-2 cm above the floor. |
| Puddle Length | Fabrics pool attractively on the floor. | Measure to the floor and add extra for the puddle. |
By carefully following these steps for both the pole and the curtains, you can ensure a perfect fit for your window treatments.
