How to measure for curtains
Measuring for curtains
How to measure up for pencil pleat and eyelet curtains, and choose the right size drapes for your window.
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Whether it’s from our huge range of over 900 ready-made curtains or our Made To Measure range, this guide will help you measure for curtains.
Picking new curtains for your home doesn’t just mean a fresh look for your windows, the perfect pair will help you keep light, noise and comfort levels just right through the seasons. Eyelet or pencil pleat headers, lined or unlined, we have options galore - and once you know what you’re aiming for, your next step is knowing how to measure for curtains.
Before you begin
A steel tape measure is the most accurate way to measure up, and you’ll need somewhere to write down measurements as you go.
We recommend that the track or pole sits 15-20cm above your window, and be wider than your window by 15-20cm on either side.
If you have a track or pole already fitted, ensure you measure the full length.
Now you should be ready to get started!
How to measure for eyelet curtains
We offer a large range of widths and drops, so to find the best curtain size, start by measuring your pole length for the width measurement. For the drop you should measure from the top of the pole down to your chosen end point. The length is a matter of taste, so just keep measuring downwards until you’ve reached the point you want the curtains to end.
How to measure for pencil pleat curtains
For the width, take your steel tape measure and take the full length measurement of your pole or track. For pencil pleats on a track, measure the drop by starting from the top of the track, and for pencil pleats on a curtain pole, measure from the eye of the curtain rings (where you’ll be hooking your curtains into). Measure from either of these points down to your chosen end point and that’s your drop measurement.
How to measure for pinch pleat curtains
Our Made To Measure range includes the classic ‘pinch pleat curtains’ option, designed to have a highly decorative header created by stitching your chosen fabric into pleats. Not only do they look smart, but this type of pleat also creates elegant, flowing folds down the curtain. To measure for this curtain type, simply follow our measuring guide for pencil pleat.
About curtain drops
The drop of your curtains, also known as the length, is a matter of taste so just consider the following as a guide. Generally people choose one of three options: just above the windowsill (by 1cm), below the sill (by 15cm), or floor length (ending 1cm above the floor). Your choice on this can be guided by the look you want to achieve plus any practical factors, like if you have a radiator under the window or want to keep fabric out of the way of pets.
Readymade Curtains
We have a wonderful range of curtains that are pre-made in all sorts of sizes to give your window a great new look. All of our readymade curtains come with a pencil pleat or eyelet header, and with over 1000 colours, textures and patterns to choose from, it should be easy to find something you like. Starting from just £15, our curtain collections come in up to 14 sizes including extended widths and drops, so we have almost every angle and window covered.
The majority of our curtains come in pairs, so you’ll find two curtains included in each pack. If you’re not sure, you can check this on individual product pages. Voiles and door curtains are sold as single panels.
If you’re not sure what size to buy, check out our handy table here. We recommend rounding up to the next size if you would like a fuller look.
For pencil pleat curtains, make sure you are happy with the curtain design and colour before pulling the strings, as returns will not be accepted after this point. We can alter your readymade curtains for a more bespoke fit, all you need to do is speak to a colleague in our Made To Measure area in store.
Some of our curtains are tightly packed, so they might need a light ironing before hanging. Read the care instructions for details of temperature and whether this can be done on the face or reverse of fabric.
Most of our curtain ranges are dry clean only and will include all detail of this on the care label. Pencil pleat curtains will need all hooks removing, and strings un-tying before sending off for dry cleaning.
Our Made To Measure options
The above how-to videos can be used to help you measure up for a perfect-fitting bespoke option too. Follow each step as directed to measure (the pencil pleat steps work for pinch pleat too) and we’ll make them exactly as requested.
We offer a bespoke service for curtains, blinds, shutters and accessories, with a choice of hundreds of colours, patterns and finishes. Using our online service you can choose from over 400 fabrics to create your ideal look, and order free samples before you buy to make sure you’re happy with how the fabric looks at your window and coordinates with your decor.
We know it’s a big decision, so we have experts on hand to offer guidance if you want it. Choose from a free virtual (via video call) or in-store appointment and chat to our consultants about your needs, and you also have the option for us to pop in and measure up for you to make sure your new window dressing has a perfect fit.
After you’ve placed your order, our specialist teams will start creating your curtains, blinds, shutters and accessories to your exact window measurement in our state-of-the-art Midlands-based manufacturing centre. Once complete, your online order will be delivered directly to you, or if you place an order via virtual or in-store appointment you’ll have the option of collecting from store or home delivery. If you think you’ll need a hand, we can also book you a fitting appointment for a professional finish.