How to measure for curtains

Made to measure curtains can instantly transform a room, bringing a new lease of life into your interior scheme. 

Along with being beautifully decorative and luxuriously full, curtains can offer multiple functional benefits. From controlling lighting and privacy to helping to reduce heat loss, your made to measure curtains can be created to fit the purpose of the room in which they are to be installed.

Between the lining and face fabric sits interlining. This cotton fleece material adds body and creates a soft, luxurious feel, whilst also helping with insulation and sound absorbancy. All Warner House made to measure curtains are interlined as standard, for no extra cost. 

Measuring for your made to measure curtains is simple, with our expert curtain makers needing just two measurements from you to be able to create the perfect pair of made to measure curtains.

Our guide below should contain all the information you need to measure for your custom-made curtains, but if you do need any further information or would like additional help, please contact us.

If you have a curtain track, measure the total width from end to end (A).

If you have a curtain track with a centre overlap, measure the width of the track from end to end, then measure the width of the overlap. Add these two measurements together to get the total track width (A+B).

If you have a curtain pole, measure the pole width between the decorative ends (finials) (C).

Curtain track

Curtain track with overlap

Curtain pole

If you are fitting a new track or pole, we would advise that it extends 15cm to 30cm minimum either side of the window to allow the curtains to be stacked back. If the curtains are to be hung on a large window, you may want to allow further room for the curtains to be stacked back, for example up to 60cm. We would advise installing the pole 12cm to 15cm above the window recess.

For curtain poles, measure from the underside of the decorative ring to where the curtain is to finish.

For curtain tracks, measure from the top of the track to where the curtain is to finish.

When it comes to choosing your curtain length, we would suggest the following:

a)        1cm above the floor

b)        15-20cm below the sill (or 2cm above the radiator)

c)        1cm above the sill

Another option is a curtain length that allows you to puddle your curtains and if this is the desired finish, we would recommend that you measure:

From pole or track to floor, plus 2cm (break puddle)

From pole or track to floor, plus 30-50cm (true puddle)

Floors and sills aren’t always level, so be sure to measure in at least 3 positions across the track or pole. If the measurements do vary, choose the measurement that suits best. We would recommend using the shortest measurement if you are looking for an above the sill or above the floor finish, as this would avoid dragging.

Explore a diverse array of designs, from bold botanicals and lavish animal prints to charming chintz and pretty florals. Our archival fabric collection is awash with choice, with over 600 luxurious fabrics to choose from, you have the freedom to craft the ideal bespoke curtain for your home.