Measuring Windows for Curtains: A Quick Guide

Fit your track or pole first, then measure its full width and the drop from the top of the track (or the eye of the curtain ring on a pole) to where you want the curtain to finish. Measure the drop in three places and use the shortest. Work in centimetres.

Getting this right matters: accurate measurements mean curtains that fit, and no more fabric than you need.

What you need

• A tape measure (or a laser measure).
• Somewhere to note your measurements, such as a notebook or your phone.

Quick checklist

1. Fit the track or pole before you measure.
2. Measure the full width of the track, including any overlap, or the pole excluding the finials. Only measure the window itself if it is wall to wall.
3. Decide where the curtains will finish: just above the sill, below it, or to the floor.
4. Measure the drop in three places and use the shortest measurement.
5. Write everything down in centimetres.

Our full guide, how to measure for curtains and blinds, covers tracks, poles, where to finish the drop and measuring for Roman blinds. Then use our guide to how much curtain fabric you need.

Still unsure? Get in touch and we can talk you through it.