How to Measure Your
Windows for Drapes!

Know exactly what size window décor to purchase in four easy steps.Anyone can create a beautiful look for windows. Whether your tastes run to traditional, floral, or contemporary décor, it all starts with measuring your windows correctly for curtains and hardware. So grab your tape measure, notepad, and pencil, and let's get started.

Before you begin: Note that you'll be measuring each individual window in the room. Windows in the same room can look the same size, but can actually vary slightly in size.

Step 1: Length. Measure the length of each window, starting at the
location of the curtain rod. Curtains and drapery panels are typically installed 4" above the window frame, sometimes even closer to the ceiling, so be sure to add those extra inches to your final measurements.How long should your curtains be? Here you have several options. Different curtain lengths create different effects. For a traditional full-length look, measure the window length so the panels will just touch the floor. Shorter panels should be measured to hang 4" below the windowsill. Or create a romantic "puddle" effect by adding an extra 3" to 10" to a full-length measurement. Curtains and drapery panels are measured from top to bottom, including any tabs, rings, or rod pockets at the top of the panels.

Step 2: Width. Measure the width of each window, adding an overlap of 1" to 4" for best results. Write this number down. You'll use it in the next two steps.

Step 3: Fullness. Do you prefer your curtains to look smooth and flat, or to have a full, rippling effect? That's fullness. For this pretty, rippling look, multiply the width of each window by anywhere from 1.5 to 3, depending on how much fullness you want. This fullness measurement is the width of panel you will need to cover your window.For instance, if your window is 36" wide and you want an average degree of fullness, multiply 36" by 2 to determine how much you need. You will need 72" of panel width for this window.

Step 4: Window Hardware. Take your original width measurement for each window (not multiplied for fullness) and add 8" to determine the hardware size you will need.Hardware is usually ordered 4" wider than the window opening on each side, not including finials. Finials range in size and can add up to 9" in width on each end.

For instance, if your window is 36" wide, you would order a 44" wide rod. Depending on the finials you choose, the finished width would be 45" to 62".