Guide to Window Measuring

Measuring for Curtains
Measuring for Blinds
Measuring for Bedspreads

Please read our other guide about How to Measure for curtain poles and curtain tracks

1. Measuring for curtains

To be sure of the best possible fit, take time to measure carefully using a metal tape measure for accuracy. Always ensure that a track or pole is in place before you give us your measurements and follow the guidelines below. As a guide, if fitting a new track or pole, this should be positioned 15cm (6 inches) above the window and extend 15 - 20cm (6 - 8 inches) either side of the window.

A. Measuring width of curtains

Measuring width on a track

Measure the total width of the track in cm. This is the measurement, in cm's, we require when ordering your curtains. Once you have given us this measurement we will add on 2.5cm to allow the curtains to overlap in the centre when closed.

Measuring width on an overlapping curtain track

Measure the distance marked A and then add this to measurement B to give your total width. This is the measurement, in cm's, we require when ordering your curtains.

Measuring width on a pole

Measure the length of the pole excluding the finials/decorative ends. This is the measurement, in cm's, we require when ordering your curtains. Once you have given us this measurement we will add on 2.5cm to allow the curtains to overlap in the centre when closed.

Measuring width of Valances

Please measure the valance rail B (not the curtain track width). This is normally 30cm wider than the curtain rail it is fitted to, due to the returns (A&C) on either end. Add the valance rail length B to returns A & C.

B. Measuring Length of curtains

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

Sill length curtains finish 1cm above the sill.
Curtains that fall below the sill finish 15cm below or 2cm above the radiator.
Floor length curtains finish 1cm from the floor.

Please take care to measure accurately with a metal measure and ensure that existing fittings are in place first. We recommend that you measure the drop in three places along the length of your pole or track and take the shortest measurement. This ensures that any variations are accounted for.

For Pencil Pleat, Pinch Pleat and Goblet headings

Curtain Track

When using a curtain track, measure from the top of the track to where the curtain is to finish. This is the measurement, in cm's, we require when ordering curtains.

Curtain Pole

When using a curtain pole, measure from the underside of the decorative ring to where you want the curtain to finish. This is the measurement, in cm's, we require when ordering curtains.

For Tab Top, Tie top and Eyelet Headings

Measure from the top of the pole to where you want the curtains to finish. This is the measurement, in cm's, we require when ordering curtains. For Eyelet curtains we will add 3cm to your measurement so that there is an upstand above the pole.

2. Measuring for blinds

Blinds can sit either inside or outside a window recess. It's important to decide which you want before taking your measurements.

A. Inside window recess

For a blind to be positioned in the recess, the depth should be at least 75mm. Also consider position of window handles and wall tiles and ensure that the blind will be free from obstruction when lowered.
Measure the total width from A to B in 3 places, top, middle and bottom to allow for any slight variation or irregularity in your windows. Provide us with the smallest measurement in cm's. We will deduct the necessary allowance so that the blind can operate freely.
Measure the total length from C to D in 3 places, left, middle and right, to allow for any slight variation or irregularity in your windows. Provide us with the smallest measurement in cm's.

B. Outside window recess

For the width of the blind decide how far you want the blind to overlap on either side - we recommend you should add at least 5cm to each side making a total of 10cm. Measure the distance E to F in 3 places and take the narrowest measurement and then add your desired amount of overlap for both sides. This is the measurement we require, in cm's, when ordering your blind.
For the length decide how far you want the blind to sit above and below the window - we recommend you should add 50cm which means the blind will sit 25cm above the window and finish 25cm below. Take the measurement G to F in 3 different places and make a note of the narrowest measurement and then add your desired amount of overlap for the top and bottom. This is the measurement we require, in cm's, when ordering your blind.

3. Measuring for bedspreads

To be sure of the best possible fit, take time to measure your bed carefully. For your quotation we will require the following measurements in cm's:

Width of bed without bedcovers
Length of bed without bedcovers
Height of bed without bedcovers
Finished width with bedcovers on. You may want the bedspread not to touch the floor in which case we recommend a 3cm clearance.
Finished length with bedcovers on. Allow for the bedspread to tuck around the pillows if you wish.