How to Measure for Curtains

This quick and easy guide answers the question: how to measure for curtains? This is all the information you need for ordering made to measure curtains. These measurements can then be given to us at F&P Interiors when you request a quote for your curtains or pelmet.

How to Measure a Window For Curtains

Where to position your pole or track:

The first step is to decide whether you want your curtains to hang from a track or a pole. Whichever option you choose they should be positioned 15 cms / 6 inches above the window and extend between 15-20 cms / 6-8 inches either side. Please contact us if you would like help with this.

Tip: it is best to fit your track or pole before taking your measurements.

Measuring your Curtain Width:

Measure the width of your pole between the finials, or the whole length of your track. We advise using a mental tape measure to get the most accurate measurements.

Choosing your Curtain Length:

Before measuring the finished length, decide whether you want your curtains to fall to the sill, below the sill, or to the floor.

Sill length curtains finish 0.5 cms above the sill

Curtains that fall below the sill, are to finish 10-15 cms (4-6 inches) below

Floor length curtains finish touching the floor

Measuring your Curtain Length:

The type of heading will determine where to start measuring from.

Eyelet Heading: Measure from the top of the pole. You will also need to make a note of the pole diameter.
All other Headings: Measure from the eye on the curtain pole ring.
For Curtains on a Track: If you have a track, measure from the top of track.

Our guide on how to choose the right curtain heading explains the most popular heading styles, plus provides close up imagery of each design to help you choose the right style to suit your home.

How to Measure For a Pelmet

Measuring your Pelmet Width:

Your width measurement needs to allow a minimum of 15.2cm (6”) on either side of the curtain track.

Measuring your Pelmet Height:

Unless you have a specific requirement for the height of your pelmet, we will calculate this for you to be in proportion to the length of your curtains. This can change if you have low ceilings, or wish to hide an aspect of your view.

Measuring your Pelmet Depth:

Your pelmet needs to clear your curtain track to ensure that when the curtains are drawn back, they do not push against it.

We would recommend a depth of between 10cm / 4 inches - 15.2cm / 6 inches.

Made to Measure Curtains and Pelmets

With thousands of designer fabrics to choose from, we create unique and beautiful made to order pieces for your home. All our made to measure items are handmade by our experienced design team here in Sussex. They use traditional sewing techniques producing long-lasting pieces with a high-quality finish.

Having chosen your perfect curtain fabric, with our help you are able to create something truly unique and control every element of the design. Whether you are looking for extra long curtains or curtains for a bay window, you can have perfectly fitting, custom made curtains in the fabric, style and finish you want...

Get your Made to Measure Quote

How to Choose the Perfect Curtain Heading

In this helpful guide, we explain each heading, offering expert tips on where to feature them. Along with lots of beautiful imagery to inspire your design, we include close up examples of every heading to appreciate its unique detailing, plus a video of our favourites heading styles to help you decide which is best your home.

Our Guide

Why Pelmets are Making a Comeback

No longer solely crowning the curtains of stately country houses, pelmets are enjoying a resurgence in trendy, modern day homes. Offering so much more than just an attractive window framimg, read on to discover why we are thrilled that they are making a comeback, and let us inspire you with how to style them.

Inspire Me