Curtain Measuring Guide

Measuring Guide

Let's Measure Your Curtains

Curtains are forgiving — nail three things and you'll get that soft, full, high-end drape.

Takes about 5 minutes  ·  No experience needed

Unlike shades, curtains don't have to be measured to the exact inch — but a few simple habits make all the difference between a room that feels flat and one that feels finished. Grab a steel tape measure, a step stool, and a notepad, and let's get you sorted.

One golden rule

Measure the rod, not the window — and hang it high and wide. It's the single best trick for making a window (and the whole room) feel bigger.

Step 1

Hang High & Wide

Where you place the rod matters more than anything. Give it room to breathe.

  • Go up. Mount the rod 4–6 inches above the window frame — or higher, close to the ceiling, to make the window feel taller.
  • Go wide. Extend the rod 6–12 inches past each side of the frame so open curtains clear the glass and let in full light.
  • Measure the rod, end to end. That final rod width — not the window width — is the number you'll build on next.
Rod height above frame 4–6 in
Give the rod room
Above the frame+4 to 6"
Beyond each side+6 to 12"
Then measure Rod widthEnd to end

Hanging high and wide is the trick designers use to make windows look grand.

Fullness math (easy)
Your rod width50"
× 2 for fullness100"
Two panels, each Order this50"

Flat panels the same width as the window look skimpy — fullness is what makes them lush.

Step 2

Get the Width Right

For that soft, gathered look, your curtains should add up to more fabric than the rod.

  • Aim for 2× your rod width. So a 50" rod wants about 100" of total curtain. Want extra-lush? Go up to 2.5×.
  • Ordering a pair? Divide that total by two — that's the width of each panel (about 50" each in the example).
  • When in doubt, round up. A little extra fullness always looks better than too little.
Step 3 · Length

Choose How They Meet the Floor

Measure from the top of the rod down to the floor (add ring height if you're using rings), then pick your finish.

The Float

Crisp & Tailored

Ends about ½" above the floor. Clean and modern. Subtract ½" from your measurement.

The Break

Soft & Relaxed

Just touches with a gentle bend. The most popular look. Add about 1".

The Puddle

Romantic & Full

Pools softly on the floor for drama. Add 2–6" to your measurement.

We've got you

Not sure you got it just right?

That's exactly what we're here for. Send us your window and rod details and we'll happily double-check your numbers before you order.

Get Measuring Help