How to measure for made to measure curtains
Accurate measurements help us make curtains that fit your window and hang as intended. Use this guide for curtain width and finished length, and contact us if you are unsure which measurements to take.
Measure the width
If your curtains will hang from an existing fixture
Measure the fixture width only, excluding any decorative end finials.
(Do not include the finials — just the width the curtain will actually cover.)
If your curtains will hang from a ceiling or wall fixture
Measure the total width of the fixture from end to end.
Tip:
If you would like your curtains to return to the wall (wrap slightly around the sides to block light), please contact us for advice.
Measuring for DIY Curtain Making
If you're measuring fabric to make your own curtains, you can refine your measurements:
- Add 6–8 cm per curtain for an overlap in the centre where curtains meet.
- If you'd like the outer edges to return to the wall, measure the distance from the eye of the end ring/glider back to the wall on both sides and add these to your total width.
- For a single curtain, note which side it will hang on (left or right).
Note:
If you plan to include returns to the wall, ensure the curtain top sits just below the hanging point of the fixture — otherwise, the fixture will obstruct the fabric.
Measure the finished length
The finished length (or drop) is the distance from the very top of the curtain to the bottom hem.
Measure from the point where the curtain will hang to your desired hem position.
Measure in three places — left, centre, and right — as window sills and floors are rarely perfectly level. Use the measurement that suits best.
For Tab Top Headings
Measure from the top of the heading to the desired hem position (this is your drop).
Then add the thickness of the fixture to this figure — this gives your finished length (some length is lost when threading the tabs into place).
For Eyelet Headings
Measure from the top of the fixture to the desired hem (the eyelet drop).
Then add 3.5 cm (1 3/8") — this accounts for the fabric above the eyelet hole.
→ This is your finished length.
For Gathered or Pencil Pleat Headings
Measure from the eye of the curtain ring or glider to the desired hem (the hook drop).
Then add 3.5 cm (1 3/8") to allow for the fabric above the hook.
→ This gives your finished length.
For Other Curtain Headings
Decide where you'd like the top of the curtain to sit:
- For ceiling or wall fixtures – align the top of the curtain with the top of the fixture.
- For recesses – align with the top of the curtain to your preferred height.
Measure from that point down to your desired hem position.
→ This is your finished length.
If you have not installed a fixture yet
It's best to have your hardware in place before measuring, but if not, follow these steps:
- Decide how the curtains will be fixed — know what style and mounting you plan to use.
Positioning:
- Allow the fixture to extend at least 15 cm (6") beyond the window on each side.
- Fix the fixture at least 8 cm (3") above the top of the window recess or soffit.
Once marked, follow the same measuring process as above to determine width and length.
Tip:
Use light pencil marks on the wall to visualise where the fixture and hem will sit before taking final measurements.
Summary Checklist
- ✓Measure the fixture width (exclude finials).
- ✓Add any overlap or returns if desired.
- ✓Measure finished length from the fixture to desired hem.
- ✓Account for heading type (eyelet, pleat, tab top, etc.).
- ✓Double-check measurements in three places.
Ready to discuss your curtains?
Browse our fabrics, or contact us if you would like advice on measuring before you order.