How to Measure for Curtains
Simple step-by-step guides so you don’t get it horribly wrong.
Measuring for curtains is more than just reading the numbers on your tape. It’s knowing where to measure from, what to allow for, and how your curtain style changes the sizes you need. This mini hub pulls everything together so you can measure once, measure right, and order with confidence.
Before you start measuring
Spending two or three minutes thinking about how your curtains will hang will save you a lot of frustration later on. Work through this list first, then dive into the measuring guides below.
- Pick your curtain style first. Pencil pleat, eyelet, wave and double-track curtains all hang slightly differently, so they need to be measured slightly differently.
- Decide where the curtains hang. Will they hang in front of the track or under the track? (Especially important if you’re planning on hanging wave curtains.)
- Use a wide-blade steel tape measure. It’s easier to read and doesn’t sag as much over wide spans.
- Measure in centimetres only. All our guides and order forms use cm — it reduces mix-ups.
- Write sizes down straight away. Don’t keep them in your head. Note the width first and the drop second – that’s the industry standard.
- Get a second pair of hands where you can. One person holding the tape, one person reading and writing the numbers is always more accurate.
The most common measuring mistakes
After more than 30 years in this business, I still see the same handful of errors crop up again and again. Avoid these, and you’re already 90% of the way there.
- Mixing centimetres and inches 🙈
- Swapping digits (e.g. 89 instead of 98cm).
- Misreading the tape (101cm instead of 110cm).
- Mixing up width and drop when you write them down.
- Measuring the window instead of the space the curtains need.
- Not allowing enough width past each side of the window for the curtains to stack back.
- Trying to measure a wide bay on your own so the tape bows in the middle.
Tip: if you’re measuring a bay, send me a photo as well as your sizes. If something doesn’t quite add up when we draw out your bay, we’ll spot it before anything is made.
Choose your measuring guide
Pick the option that matches how your curtains will hang. Each guide shows you exactly where to measure, what to avoid, and how to get every size right first time.
1. Measuring for a Ceiling-Fixed Bay Track
If your bay track sits tight to the ceiling, this guide shows you exactly where to measure from — including how to allow for sill depth, radiators and curtain style.
2. Measuring for a Wall-Fixed Bay Track
Learn where to position the brackets and how high above the window you should measure to ensure a perfect fit — especially important with deeper sills.
3. Measuring for Curtain Track Returns
If your curtains return out of the bay on each side, this guide shows exactly how far to measure and where the return arms should start.
4. Measuring for Long Curtains in a Bay Window
Floor-length curtains need accurate drop measurements inside or outside the bay. This guide covers everything you need to avoid uneven hems.
5. Measuring for Sill-Length Curtains
Get a crisp, tidy finish by measuring sill-length curtains correctly. This guide shows where to start and how to avoid gaps or overhangs.
6. How to Use a Tape Measure Correctly
A short, practical guide — perfect if you’re measuring alone or want to avoid common mistakes like tape droop or misreading the numbers.
7. Measuring for Straight Tracks & Poles
Ideal for wide windows and patio doors. Learn how far beyond the window to measure so curtains stack neatly off the glass.
8. What Sizes We Need When You Order
Exactly what to measure and send us so we can make your track perfectly — including photos, angles and sill details.
Frequently asked questions
Start by deciding your curtain style — pencil pleat, eyelet, wave or double-track. Each one hangs slightly differently, so getting this right first ensures all your measurements are spot on.
It depends on your track and curtain style. Some curtains hang in front of the track, others hang underneath it. Each measuring guide above explains which method applies to your setup.
A good rule of thumb: your track should extend well past each side of the window. For example:
- 150cm window → around 180cm track
- 240cm window → around 300cm track
This lets the curtains stack back properly without blocking light.
You can measure on your own, but it’s always easier with a second person — especially with wide windows or bays. They can hold the tape measure level so you get more accurate readings.
Don’t panic. For bay windows we often spot mistakes immediately when we draw out your bay template. And if you’re unsure, just send a quick photo — I’ll help you double-check everything before you order.
No — this is one of the most common mistakes. You’re not measuring the window. You’re measuring the space your curtains or track need so everything hangs properly.
Next Step: Choose the Right Curtain Track
Now that you have your measurements, the easiest way to choose the right curtain track is to use the Curtain Track Finder. It asks a few quick questions about your window and recommends the best track for your setup.
This is the easiest way to make sure you choose the right curtain track first time.
Takes less than 60 seconds
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