How to Measure for a Wall-Fixed Bay Window Curtain Track with Returns
For curtains hanging in front of your window sill.
This is often the best setup when your window sill is very shallow, or you have no window sill.
This setup works particularly well when ceiling fixing isn’t possible, or when the position of the track needs to be set from the wall.
This guide shows you exactly where to measure from and what sizes we need. Don’t worry if your bay window is not exactly the same shape as the examples below — the measuring method is the same for most bay windows.
Is this the right guide for you?
This page is for you if:
- your curtain track will be wall-fixed within the bay
- the returns out of the bay will also be wall-fixed
- your curtains will hang in front of the window sill
If you can’t wall-fix within the bay because of coving, a beam, or another obstruction, take a look at our ceiling-fixed measuring guide instead.
Where to measure from
The most important thing to get right is this:
All measurements must be taken from the wall position where the brackets will be fitted.
This could be the wall above the window, a timber batten, or the top of a wooden window surround.
Because you are measuring higher up, it can be a little more difficult to reach across the bay accurately.
In most cases, it’s much easier to measure with two people, especially when taking the wider and diagonal sizes.
Measuring from this position allows us to make the track to match the exact shape of your bay, so it fits neatly into the wall brackets once installed.
We normally recommend allowing around 20cm to 30cm for the returns, depending on how much space you have on the walls at each side.
Measuring the bay and the returns
With this setup, you are measuring one continuous curtain run — into the bay and out onto the walls at each side.
The bay section is measured first, then the returns are added on to complete the full track length.
This allows your curtains to close fully following the bay shape and stack neatly back onto the walls.
Different bay shapes, same measuring method
Every bay window is slightly different — some have three sections, some have five sections, or are curved.
The good news is that the measuring method is still the same. You’re measuring the bay shape where the track will be fitted, then giving us the extra sizes we need to map the angles properly.
Why wall-fixing is often the best option
Wall-fixing is often the best option when ceiling fixing isn’t practical.
This is commonly due to features like coving, beams, or ceiling shapes that prevent the track from being positioned correctly.
Fixing to the wall allows the track to sit in a better position across both the bay and the returns, helping the curtains hang and close more neatly.
How to measure your bay window in 3 simple steps
Once you know where to measure from, the rest is straightforward.
Step 1: Step 1: Measure each section along the wall
Measure each straight section across from one bend point to the next.
If your bay has more sections, you’ll simply have more sections to measure — that’s completely normal.
Step 2: Measure across the front of the bay
Measure across the opening of the bay — usually wall to wall, or from one outer corner to the opposite outer corner.
This helps us understand the overall width and spread of the bay.
Step 3: Measure the diagonals
The diagonal measurements allow us to work out the angles of your bay accurately.
These are what ensure your curtain track follows the shape of the bay properly rather than only being an approximate fit.
It’s simpler than it looks
Measuring a bay window can look a bit technical at first, but once you start, it’s usually much easier than people expect.
Just take your time, measure in centimetres, and write each size down as you go.
If your bay has more sections, we ask for more measurements simply so we can map everything out properly and make sure your track fits as it should.
Want to make it even easier?
You can use one of our printable measuring templates while you work.
They show exactly where to measure and give you a clear place to write each size down as you go.
Example: 5 sided bay measuring template
Once you’ve filled it in, just take a photo of the sheet.
When you come to order, you can either upload that photo or enter your sizes manually — whichever feels easiest.
Print it, fill it in, then upload a photo when you place your order
A few quick tips
- Use a steel tape measure if possible
- Measure in centimetres only
- Write each size down straight away
- Get help for wider bays if you can
- Double-check anything that doesn’t look right
Still unsure? Just ask
If you’re unsure about anything, just get in touch.
If it’s a quick question, feel free to call. If it’s a bit more involved, send a message and include a photo of your bay window — that always helps.
I’d always rather help you get it right now than have you second guessing later.