Although measuring curtains may seem easy, doing it correctly can have a significant impact on the appearance and feel of your room. Accurately measuring curtains guarantees a proper fit and save you the aggravation of having curtains that are either too long, too short, or simply don’t look right. Accurate measurements can help you save time, money, and hassle when replacing or installing curtains.
Every aspect counts, from selecting the appropriate mounting type to accounting for fullness and hardware. Additionally, avoiding typical errors like neglecting to double-check or misjudging the location of the rods guarantees that your curtains improve the room’s utility and aesthetics.
Read also: Best Ways To Add Style Behind Your Bed With Curtains
How to Measure Curtain Length Correctly
Select the Proper Mounting Style
Selecting the mounting style is the first step in measuring curtains. Inside mount and outside mount are the two main choices.
The curtain rod is positioned inside the window frame for an inside mount. This design creates a sleek appearance that is perfect for minimalist or modern settings. Installing the rod outside and above the window frame is known as an outside mount. This improves light-blocking and gives the appearance of wider windows.
The style you select has a big impact on your measurements. Accurate window frame measurements are essential for inside mounts in order to prevent overlaps or gaps. To guarantee complete coverage for outdoor mounts, you must increase the width and height of the measures.
If this step is skipped, the curtains may appear overwhelming or too small for the room. Planning your mounting style in advance guarantees that your curtains will satisfy your functional and aesthetic requirements.
Carefully measure the width
One of the most important measurements for your curtains is their width. First, decide if you want to hang your curtains outside or inside the window frame.
Measure the window frame’s width at the top, middle, and bottom for an inside mount. The curtains will fit tightly if you use the smallest measurement because window frames aren’t usually precisely square. Measure the width of the window and add an extra 4–6 inches on each side for an exterior mount. This additional breadth provides privacy and helps block off more light. Additionally, it gives the curtains a proportionate and balanced appearance in relation to the window.
Curtains that are too narrow, with gaps and light leaking in, can be the result of not adding adequate width for outside mounts. However, curtains that are too large might overpower the room. To make sure the curtains fit precisely, always double-check your measurements.
Get the Height Right
The room’s overall appearance and atmosphere are greatly influenced by the height of your drapes. Curtains that are too long or too short can result from inaccurate measurements.
Measure from the curtain rod to approximately 0.5 inches above the floor for floor-length curtains. This gives the curtains a glossy appearance and stops them from dragging. You can let the drapes droop a little on the floor for a more dramatic look.
Measure from the rod to the windowsill for curtains that are sill-length. Ensure the curtains end either at the sill or slightly below for a clean and tailored appearance.
Measurement should always be taken from the top of the curtain rod, including any hooks or rings. Double-check the height to avoid awkward gaps or bunching. Proper height helps your curtains improve the room’s proportions and flow harmoniously with your decor.
Account for Curtain Rod Placement
Your curtain rod’s positioning is equally as crucial as its measurements. The appearance of your windows and space can be significantly improved by properly positioning the rod.
Mount the rod a few inches above the window frame for a more roomy and sophisticated appearance. This gives the impression that the ceilings are higher. Generally speaking, the rod should be positioned 4–6 inches above the frame. For an even more striking effect, especially in spaces with high ceilings, you can go higher.
Additionally, the rod should protrude 4–6 inches past the window frame on each side. This guarantees that the curtains hang elegantly when open and completely cover the window when closed. Curtains that appear crowded or out of proportion can result from failing to take the rod’s location into consideration.
Read also: Best Ways To Add Style Behind Your Bed With Curtains