Stack of beige and cream fabric rolls and curtains.

Measurement Guide for Custom Curtains

A beige desk setup featuring a beige notebook, a black pen, a diffuser, a tape measure, closed beige books, a small beige cup, and beige curtains.
Minimalist interior with beige walls, white panel details, a white armchair, a small side table with a vase and flowers, beige curtains, and a closed door with LED lighting and a measuring scale on the side.

Taking accurate measurements is essential for a perfect drape. Follow this guide to properly measure your window and select the best options for your custom curtains.

Step 1

Get Ready to Measure

Grab a notebook, pen, and measuring tape to record precise dimensions.

A desk with a glass of water, a gold desk lamp, a notebook, a pen, a measuring tape, a CMD tape measure, and a chair with beige upholstery and tied back near a window with sheer curtains.

Step 2

  • Cream-colored curtains hanging from a black curtain rod over a window.

    Ripple Fold

  • A set of five beige curtains hanging on a gold curtain rod with a decorative finial, partially covering a window with a view of trees outside.

    Grommet Panel

  • Close-up view of a white curtain hanging on a black curtain rod with decorative finial, mounted on a light gray wall.

    Double Pinch Pleat

  • Cream-colored curtains hanging on a black curtain rod with rings, in front of a light gray wall.

    Triple Pleat

  • Close-up of a white curtain hanging on a black curtain rod with rings.

    Inverted Pleat

  • White curtains hanging on a dark curtain rod against a gray wall.

    Euro Pleat

Empty room with beige paneled walls, a large window with multiple panes, a tall striped vase with branches, and a smaller white vase, all illuminated by natural light.

Step 3

Measure the Window Width

Use a measuring tape to determine the total width of the window frame from edge to edge.

Minimalist room with large window, beige walls with decorative molding, wooden floor, and two white vases with dried branches near the RHS window.

Step 4

Define the Extension Beyond the Window

  • To ensure a balanced look, add 8 to 12 inches (20 to 30 cm) on each side of the window.

  • If you want the curtain to cover the entire wall, add the total wall width to your measurements.

Empty room with large window, decorated with a striped vase with dried branches and a smaller round vase, light-colored wooden floor, beige paneled walls, and wall sconces.

Step 5

Measure the Structure Height to the Floor

Measure from the top of the window frame to the floor to determine the total curtain length needed.

Empty room with beige paneled walls, large central window, and two side windows, with a wooden floor, a tall white vase with dried branches, and a small white decorative vase.

Step 6

Measure the Rod Height to the Floor

Identify where the rod will be installed and measure from there to the floor.

Empty room with large window, beige walls with molding, hardwood floor, and two wall sconces. There are two vases, one tall with branches and one small, near the window.

Step 7

Measure the Rod Height to the Window Frame

Ensure proper positioning by measuring the height from the rod to the top of the window frame for a well-balanced look.

Diagram showing two window panel styles: Single Panel with one curtain and a small window, and Double Panel with two curtains and a larger window.

Step 8

Choose the Panel Type

  • Single Panel – Covers the entire window with one piece of fabric.

  • Double Panel – Two equal parts, allowing for a stylish center opening.

Illustration of three different curtain positions: slightly above the floor, kissing the floor, and with puddling.

Step 9

Choose the Final Curtain Length

Decide how the curtain will touch the floor:

  • Slightly above the floor (1/2” floating, modern and practical)

  • Kissing the floor (sophisticated and tailored)

  • With puddling (2” for a luxurious, dramatic effect)

Step 10 - Customizing Your Bottom Hem

  • Standard Hem

    (17 to 20 cm | 6.5” to 8”)


    The most commonly used finish, providing an elegant and structured drape.
    Ideal for most spaces, offering a balance between functionality and sophistication.

  • Close-up of a sheer, white curtain with vertical stripes, hanging over a wooden floor.

    Extended Hem

    (27 cm | 10.5”)


    Recommended for rooms with high ceilings, adding extra weight to the base for a perfect drape.
    Enhances luxury and presence in large spaces.

  • Close-up of sheer beige curtains with a checkered pattern, partially open, hanging over a wooden floor.

    Embroidered Hem

    (27 cm | 10.5”)

    A personalized option for those who want a unique touch to their curtains.
    Sophisticated embroidery details can add decorative elegance to the lower edge, elevating the room’s aesthetics.

A silver curtain rod with a twisted rope tieback holding back light gray drapes. The tieback has a textured silver cylindrical top, a telescoping body, and a long, fringed tassel hanging down.

Complete Your Measurement and Customize Your Curtain

Now that you’ve learned how to measure your window correctly and selected your customization preferences, you’re ready to place your custom curtain order!

Decorative scene with beige curtains, a small potted succulent, a vase with dried flowers, and a wooden rolling pin on a white wooden surface.