How to Measure for Curtains

Curtains are fairly easy to install, but they come in such a wide variety of sizes that measuring your windows is a must. Standard considerations for window curtains and drapes are 6 inches above a window frame, 3 inches beyond the sides and 3 inches below the bottom. This is not set in stone, however; playing around with how high you hang your curtains and how far below the window frame they hang is a simple way to change the look of the room.

Measuring for Curtains:

1. Decide which kind of curtain you want to hang at the window. For regularly sized window curtains, follow these measuring guidelines. Floor-length and cafe curtains need special considerations when you measure your window.

2. Choose where you want to place your curtain rod. Six inches above the window frame is standard, but hanging the rod lower can be just as attractive. Hanging the curtain rod higher will raise the visual height of your ceiling and create a more dramatic look for your window.

3. Measure the window from side to side. Include the frame in this measurement and add 3 to 6 inches on each side. This number is the width of your curtain rod and also the horizontal curtain coverage you will need. To achieve standard curtain fullness, multiply this horizontal measurement by two. You could multiply by three or even more for a dramatic look, but twice the width of your window is the standard. It is customary to have curtains and drapes hang beyond the sides of your windows. This provides three benefits: first, they completely hide the frame; second, when they are drawn open, they don't block any light from the window itself; and third, the window appears larger than it really is. If you only want to hang a valance, skip step 4.

4. Measure the window from top to bottom. For the standard look, measure from 6 inches above the window frame down to the point where you want the window curtains or drapes to hang. You can install the curtain rod lower or higher than 6 inches above the window if you wish, but it should be at least 3 inches above the window. This vertical measurement is the length of the curtains you need to purchase.

Tips:

1. For floor-length curtains: Floor-length curtains should gently brush the floor, not hide it from view. Floor-length curtains come in standard sizes, so you may have to adjust where you install your curtain rod to accommodate the extra length in the curtain.

2. For cafe curtains: Cafe curtains come in pairs with two rods. The top rod, which usually holds the valance, is made to be positioned inside the window frame. The lower rod is put halfway down the window or at the height of a glazing bar. Measure down from the lower rod placement to the bottom edge of the window opening; this is the length of the larger curtain piece. Measure the window from side to side and multiply by two for curtain fullness.