Curtains have the power to completely transform a room — adding warmth, texture, and personality. But even the most beautiful fabric can lose its charm if it doesn’t fit your windows properly. That’s why knowing How To Measure For Curtains is just as important as choosing the right material or color.

At Neutral Curtains, we believe that design begins with precision. Measuring your windows correctly ensures your curtains hang beautifully — enhancing light, proportion, and style in every room. Whether you prefer a classic drape or a modern linen panel, this step-by-step guide will help you get it right the first time.

 Why Measuring Matters

A perfectly fitted curtain looks intentional — framing your window gracefully and complementing your interior design.
When curtains are too short, they can make a room feel smaller. When they’re too long or narrow, they lose their structure.

By learning how to measure for curtains, you’ll achieve:

• A balanced, tailored appearance

• Better light control and privacy

• Enhanced ceiling height and space perception

• A professional, custom-made look

Good measurement is the foundation of elegant design — and the secret behind every beautiful window treatment.

What You’ll Need

Before you begin measuring, gather the essentials:

• A steel measuring tape (for accuracy)

• A step stool or ladder (for tall windows)

• A notebook or phone to record measurements

• The curtain rod or track (or note if you’ll be installing a new one)

Take your time — precision matters here more than speed.

 Decide on Mount Type: Inside or Outside

The first step in measuring for curtains is deciding how you’ll mount them.

Inside Mount

• The curtain rod or track is installed inside the window frame.

• Creates a clean, modern look.

• Best for smaller windows or minimalist designs.

Outside Mount

• The rod is installed above and beyond the frame.

• Makes windows look larger and ceilings higher.

• Ideal for layered or full-length drapes.

At Neutral Curtains, we generally recommend an outside mount for most spaces — it gives a soft, luxurious finish and enhances room proportions.

 Measure the Width

How wide your curtains are determines how full and elegant they’ll look when drawn.

For outside-mounted curtains:

1. Measure the width of your window frame.

2. Add 8–12 inches (20–30 cm) on each side.

   • This allows curtains to cover the window completely and stack neatly when open.

3. Multiply the total width by 1.5 to 2 times to achieve fullness (depending on your desired look).

Example: If your window is 60 inches wide, add 20 inches (10 on each side) = 80 inches.
Multiply by 2 for fullness → 160 inches total fabric width.

For inside-mounted curtains, simply measure the exact width of the frame — but note that this style works best for blinds or lightweight linen panels.

 Measure the Length

Curtain length sets the tone for your space — casual, elegant, or dramatic.
Start your measurement from the top of the rod or track to your desired endpoint.

Here are the most common curtain length styles:

• Sill Length: Ends ½ inch above the window sill.
  Best for kitchens, bathrooms, or casual spaces.

• Apron Length: Ends 4–6 inches below the sill.
  A clean, modern look that suits most rooms.

• Floor Length: Ends just above the floor (½ inch clearance).
  Timeless and tailored — perfect for living rooms and bedrooms.

• Puddle Length: Extends 1–3 inches onto the floor.
  Romantic, luxurious, and ideal for soft linen or sheer drapes.

Tip: For an elongated look, mount your curtain rod 4–6 inches above the window frame, or closer to the ceiling for added height.

Measure for Multiple Panels or Layers

If you plan to layer sheers with blackout curtains, measure for each separately.

• Ensure both rods or tracks align properly.

• Add extra width to allow the outer curtains to overlap slightly for better light control.

Layering adds versatility — letting you soften daylight while maintaining privacy and elegance.

Common Measuring Mistakes to Avoid

Even a small measuring error can affect the final look of your curtains. Avoid these common pitfalls:

• Forgetting to account for curtain hardware or rod brackets.

• Measuring only the window glass instead of the full frame.

• Skipping fullness — curtains need at least 1.5× window width for proper drape.

• Ignoring floor clearance (especially if your floors are uneven).

• Measuring once — always measure twice for accuracy.

A little extra care during this step ensures your finished curtains hang perfectly every time.

 Pro Tips from Neutral Curtains

At Neutral Curtains, we’ve helped countless clients achieve flawless window treatments. Here are our favorite insider tips:

• Opt for generous width: Wider panels make windows appear grander.

• Mount higher: It elongates walls and enhances architectural elegance.

• Consider fabric weight: Lightweight linens need less fullness; heavier drapes need more.

• Plan for shrinkage: Natural fabrics like linen may shrink slightly after washing — account for 2–3%.

• Visualize before installation: Tape painter’s lines on the wall to preview length and width before drilling.

 Why Custom Measurement Matters

Ready-made curtains are convenient, but custom sizing ensures every detail aligns with your home’s proportions.
Custom-measured curtains:

• Fit precisely — no awkward gaps or bunching.

• Enhance the flow of light and space.

• Reflect craftsmanship and personal style.

When paired with the right material — like Neutral Curtains’ premium linen, bamboo, or rattan fabrics — they transform any room into a curated, balanced space.

 Final Thoughts: Precision Meets Elegance

Learning how to measure for curtains is the first step toward creating a home that feels intentional and harmonious. It’s not just about numbers — it’s about proportion, balance, and flow.

With accurate measurements and thoughtfully chosen fabrics, your curtains will frame light beautifully, soften architecture, and elevate your space with timeless sophistication.

At Neutral Curtains, we make it effortless — offering expert advice, sustainable materials, and handcrafted quality to help you achieve the perfect look for your home.