Shade Measuring Guide
Let's Measure Your Roman Shade
A great fit starts with a good measurement — we'll walk you through it together.
Measuring for a custom shade can feel a tiny bit nerve-wracking the first time — but honestly, it comes down to a few numbers and a little patience. Grab a steel tape measure (a cloth one can stretch and throw your numbers off), and let's get you sorted.
Always measure in inches, and measure twice before you order. Your shade is cut just for your window, so a little accuracy now saves a lot later.
Mounting Inside the Frame
The clean, built-in look — your shade sits neatly inside the window frame.
- Check your depth first. Your frame needs at least 1.5 inches of depth for the shade to fit. If it's shallower, go with an outside mount instead.
- Measure the width between the inside edges of the frame, left to right — at the top, middle, and bottom. Windows are rarely perfectly square!
- Use the smallest width. Order to your narrowest number. And don't shave anything off yourself — we'll trim a hair for clearance so the shade glides smoothly.
We use your smallest width so the finished shade never rubs the frame.
Add about 2 inches of flat wall space above the molding for mounting. Thick or chunky molding? Give yourself 3–4 inches instead.
Mounting Outside the Frame
Sits just outside the opening and covers more wall — great for making a window feel bigger or hiding a shallow frame.
- Leave room up top. About 2 inches of flat space above the molding for the bracket. If your molding is extra thick or sticks out, go 3–4 inches.
- Want it darker or more private? Measure your height down to roughly 2 inches below the sill for extra coverage on the sides.
Six simple steps, start to finish
Prefer a picture? Here's every step in one place — save it or screenshot it for measuring day.
Where "Height" Lands Depends on Your Style
Each Roman shade hangs a little differently, so measure your height to the right spot for the look you chose.
Classic or Knife Pleat
Crisp, tailored folds. Measure to the longest point of the shade.
Scallop or Valance
Soft, decorative curves. Measure to the long point of the scalloped edge.
Relaxed Shade
A gentle dip in the middle. Measure to the short point along the sides.
Not sure you got it just right?
That's exactly what we're here for. Send us your window details and we'll happily double-check your numbers before you order.
Get Measuring Help