Measuring your window for voile curtains involves determining both the width you need for proper fullness and the drop (or length) for the desired finished look. Getting these measurements right ensures your voile hangs beautifully and provides the right amount of coverage and sheerness.
Understanding Voile Measurements
Unlike standard curtains where the primary measurement focus might be blackout or privacy, voile is often about creating a soft, diffused light and adding texture. This means fullness (extra fabric width) is key to achieving that characteristic delicate drape.
Measuring the Drop (Length)
This measurement determines how long your voile will be.
- Start Point: Measure from the very top where the voile will hang. This is typically from the top of your curtain track or pole.
- End Point: Measure down to where you want the bottom edge of the voile to finish. Common choices include:
- Just below the windowsill
- To the floor
- Pooling slightly on the floor
- Unit: As recommended, measure your window drop in centimetres (CM). This ensures accuracy for ordering or making your voile. This should be the length from the top of your window (or hanging point) to where you would like the bottom of your net to sit.
- Practical Tip: We would recommend that you allow a small space at the bottom of your curtains so that they will not fray or get marked from dragging on the floor. Aim for about 1-2 cm clearance above the floor or windowsill unless you specifically want a pooling effect.
Measuring the Width
This measurement determines how wide your voile needs to be to cover the window area and provide the desired fullness.
- Measure the Track or Pole: Measure the full width of your curtain track or pole, not just the window opening itself. This ensures the voile will cover the entire fixture when closed.
- Account for Fullness: Voile looks best with significant fullness. This means you need to order or use fabric much wider than your track/pole measurement. The amount of extra width is called the 'fullness ratio'.
- Typical Fullness Ratios for Voile:
- 1.5x Fullness: Adds some wave, minimal drape. Not common for voile.
- 2x Fullness: A standard choice, provides a nice drape and definition.
- 2.5x Fullness: Creates a fuller look with more pleats.
- 3x Fullness: Offers maximum fullness, creates a luxurious, dense look with many folds, even with sheer fabric.
- Typical Fullness Ratios for Voile:
- Calculate Fabric Width: Multiply your measured track/pole width by your desired fullness ratio.
- Example: If your pole is 200 cm wide and you want 2.5x fullness, you would need 200 cm * 2.5 = 500 cm of fabric width (before hemming and heading). Voile panels are often sold by width, so you might need multiple panels to achieve this total width.
Fullness Calculation Table
| Measured Track/Pole Width | Desired Fullness | Required Fabric Width |
|---|---|---|
| 150 cm | 2x | 300 cm |
| 200 cm | 2.5x | 500 cm |
| 300 cm | 3x | 900 cm |
Summary of Measuring Steps
- Measure the full width of your curtain track or pole.
- Decide on your desired fullness ratio (2x, 2.5x, 3x are common for voile).
- Calculate the total required fabric width by multiplying your track/pole width by the fullness ratio.
- Measure the window drop in centimetres (CM). Measure from the top of your hanging point (track/pole) down to where you want the bottom of the voile to sit.
- Remember to allow a small space at the bottom to prevent dragging.
By accurately measuring both the width needed for fullness and the desired drop, you can ensure your voile curtains perfectly fit your window and achieve the sheer, flowing aesthetic you're looking for.
