Drapery Pairs: Tailored Pleat Drapery — Victoria Hagan Sankaty Stripe, Sand
Purchasing new curtains and draperies for your home is an exciting endeavor. From choosing the right styles and designs to watching everything come together perfectly, there’s so much to look forward to throughout the process. But before you get started, deciding on the size of the curtains or draperies you need is the most important first step you should take.
To help you understand how to measure for drapes and curtains, we’ve created this simple step-by-step guide to help you achieve the perfect fit. Read on to learn how to measure windows for curtains. (If you’d like to let our friendly team of professionals take care of it for you, simply request a complimentary measurement appointment online.)
Tools You Need to Measure for Drapes
Before you measure for curtains and drapes, make sure you have the right tools and resources to make it as easy as possible. This will ensure your measurements are accurate and efficient. Here’s what you should have on hand before you measure your windows for curtains:
- Steel measuring tape
- A ladder or step stool
- Paper and pencil
- Someone to help! (For larger windows or spaces)
Measuring for Curtains and Drapes
Measuring for drapery can be a simple process if you follow these steps. The instructions below will help you take accurate curtain measurements to find the best fit for your window.
Step 1: Choose Between a Single Panel or Drapery Pair
Before starting the measurement process, it’s important to decide if your drapery will consist of a single panel that covers the entire span of the window or a pair of panels that meet in the middle of the window.
To help you decide between the two options, here are the major benefits and defining features of single panel drapes versus a drapery pair:
Single Panel Drapery
Inner Layer: Solar Shades — 5% Metallic, Zinc / Outer Layer: Single Panel of Ripple Fold Drapery — SunbrellaⓇ Ventana CollectionⓇ Alma, Beige
- Made to cover an entire span or as a decorative stationary panel
- Can be swept to the side for a styled effect
- Great for corner windows
Drapery Pair
Drapery Pairs: Tailored Pleat Drapery — The Novogratz Family of Cranes, Waverly Blue
- Drapery panels hang on both sides of the window and close to meet in the middle.
- Recommended for sheer fabrics and layering.
Depending on which option you choose, the process of measuring for drapes will be different. If you choose single panel drapes, you should measure the full length of the window. If you choose a pair of drapery panels, you will measure the full length of the window divided by two. If you want an “unequal pair,” however, you will need to order each panel individually as single panels.
Step 2: Measure the Total Drapery Width Coverage
After deciding between single or double panel drapes, measure the width of the window or area you would like to cover — this will be your ordering width. (Please note: The total width coverage you specify in your order will be automatically divided in two for Drapery Pairs.) If you have already selected hardware and you need your drapery to open and close, your total width coverage should equal the same span as your hardware, left to right.
Expert Tip
Whenever possible, we recommend extending your measurements out from the edges of your windows or doors as much as 6 to 12 inches on each side. This will help make the area look larger and maintain as much natural light as possible when the drapery panels are open.
Step 3: Measure for Finished Drapery Length
The last step in the process is to measure for finished drapery length. For wall mount drapery, measure from the top of where you will mount the hardware all the way to the floor. For ceiling mount curtains and drapes, measure from the ceiling to the floor.
Expert Tips
Depending on the unique style of drapes you choose, there may be other factors to take into consideration for your measurements. For example, if you want your drapes to be “puddled” we recommend adding 1 to 4 inches to the length of your measurements. For draperies that will be opened and closed frequently, simply subtract ½ inch for floor clearance to avoid dragging and wear and tear. Finally, if your floors are uneven, make sure you include a small break (¼ to ¾ inch) or puddle (1 to 4 inches) to cover any gaps you may have in the floor.
Find the Perfect Curtain Rods & Hardware for Drapes
The Shade Store offers a wide selection of curtain rods and hardware for drapes to suit your taste and complement your home décor. We invite you to explore each style in our nationwide showrooms and online — and if you have any questions, our expert Design Consultants are happy to help.
Save Time and Sign Up for a Complimentary Measurement Today
An accurate measurement is the most important step before ordering new window curtains. To achieve a perfect fit, we recommend requesting a complimentary measurement appointment with one of our friendly professionals. No matter where you live, The Shade Store can help you find, measure and install beautiful custom window treatments you will love for years.
