How to measure for your new curtains

Be sure to measure your window carefully to ensure a perfect fit. We suggest you use a metal tape measure for accuracy. The first decision is whether you want your curtains to hang from a pole or track, both of which should be positioned 15cm (6 inches) above the window and extend 15-20cm (6-8 inches) either side

Be sure to fit the track or pole before taking your measurements.

Measuring Width

Measure the total width of the track or pole (excluding the finials) – do not measure the window unless it is wall-to-wall. Don’t forget to allow for overlap – this is an additional measurement, normally 2.5cm (1 inch) that allows the hanging curtains to overlap in the middle when they are closed.

Measuring Length

Before measuring the length, decide whether you want your curtains to fall to the sill, below the sill or to the floor. We suggest that:

• Sill length curtains finish 1.25cm (1/2 inch) above the sill.
• Curtains that fall below the sill finish 15cm (6 inches) below.
• Floor length curtains finish 1.5cm (1/2 inch) from the floor (although you can create a romantic, Bohemian look by having them longer so that they actually trail on the floor).

Measuring curtains for tracks

Measure from the top of the track.

Measuring curtains for poles

Pencil pleat curtains: Measure from the eye – the small metal ring at the bottom of each curtain ring. This will prevent the pole or rings from being obscured by the curtain.
Tab top and eyelet curtains: Measure from the very top of the pole.

Not sure on what to do?

Here at The Curtain Shop, we offer a measuring service for a small fee and should you decide to go ahead with an order, then we will deduct this price from all orders over £100. We are happy to travel to any location within a 10 mile radius of either of our stores, so if you would like to use our measuring service, then simply call us at the Kettering shop on 01536 521000. We will then send out one of our experienced and friendly team to assist you with all your window dressing needs.

Curtain Fabrics

We can supply curtain fabrics from manufacturers such as Harlequin, Clarke and Clarke, Prestigious Textiles and many more. We have hundreds of samples of our curtain fabrics for you to choose from, in both of our shops and our friendly consultants are on hand advise you and answer any questions you might have.

Our Process

Take a look at our process below, to show you the full service we offer. We take you through all of our pleating styles, poles and pelmet styles, should you require one. We have a full design, making and installation service, so you know that we will give you the most bespoke service to your needs.

We have an extensive range of materials that you can choose from, from the best material suppliers. If you have a colour scheme in mind, we will show you many choices to help you decide on your perfect material. We will also suggest the best style to suit your needs, whether it’s modern or traditional, we have plenty of choices for every client’s requirements.

When you visit our store you will see all the different styles of pleats that we do. Our choice ranges from standard pleats to eyelets, so we have examples to suit all.