Measuring for Your Drapery
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Width Measurement
- If you already have a drapery rod: Measure the distance between the finials (the decorative ends of the rod).
- If you already have a track: Measure the total length of the track.
- If you don’t have a rod or track: Determine the total width you’d like your drapery to cover.
- Measure the width of your window, including the frame or trim (if applicable).
- Add 4”-8” to each side of your window measurement. Want to create the effect of a wider window? Feel free to add even more allowance!
Why add extra width?
- Your curtains can open fully without blocking much of the glass, letting in more light.
- It creates the illusion of a larger window.
- Extra width extends drapery coverage, helping to block out more light when closed.
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Height Measurement
- If your drapery rod isn’t installed yet, decide where you want it placed.
- Position the rod 4” to 12” above the top of the window (not including tabs or rings) to create a professional look and give the illusion of taller ceilings.
- Measure from your chosen rod placement to where you’d like the drapery to end.
Important: Pleats and grommets are already factored into the drapery length you provide.
Measuring Tips for Different Drapery Styles
Pleated Drapery
- Using metal clip rings? Adjust your panel length:
- Eyelet + clip adds 3" of length. Deduct 3" from the panel length.
- Eyelet only adds 2" of length. Deduct 2" from the panel length.
Grommet Drapery
- Measure from the top of the rod to the desired bottom length.
- The final panel measurement will be from the upper inside of the grommet to the bottom of the panel.
- Provide the finished panel length rounded to the nearest 1/8" — this will be the exact measurement your drapery panel is made to.