Lana Berry

Width
Most curtains and window coverings require two to three times more material/curtain than the actual window width to offer the required fullness in appearance when installed/hung on rod.

From left to right, measure the width of the rod. To obtain a look of adequate fullness, a basic rule for displaying curtains is that the finished width of the curtains should be at least 2 times the width of your window (if not more – sheers can be 3 times the window width).

Length
From top to bottom, measure the length of the window or area you want to cover. Overall curtain length, which can range from the window sill to the apron or all the way to the floor, is a matter of personal preference and does not have to be exact. You may modify the position of the curtain at your window by sliding your rod up or down a little.

If you want a longer sill, place it slightly below the bottom of the sill.
Other hanging styles allow the curtain to “puddle” on the floor.

How to Measure a Recessed Window

• If you want to be as precise as possible, use a metal tape measure.
• At the top, centre, and bottom of the recess, measure the width. Keep in mind that not every window will be the same width all the way down. As your width, use the smallest measurement.
• Now take a measurement of the depth of the window recess. Take the smallest measurement using the same way as in step 2.

Window Measurement Without A Recess

• To be as precise as possible, use a metal tape measure.
• Take a measurement of the window’s width. To get a better fit, add 10cm/4in to your measurement. This will allow for a 5cm overlap on either side.
• When determining the blind’s descent, you must first decide where you want the blind to end. Make a note of your measurement once you’ve decided on the drop.

Inside Mounted Valance

• To begin, take a measurement from left to right of the width of your windows. Determine the depth of the window covering headrail or bracket to ensure that the window treatment does not reach into the room.
• Measure down from the inside top of the window frame to where you want the valance to end on the glass.

Outside Mounting

• If relevant to your chosen design, measure the width of the window, then add the return (measured of the valance’s projection).
• Measure from the rod’s face to the wall if you’ve installed one.
• Measure down from where you want your valance hem to fall from your planned rod or mounting board location.