Measuring Windows

Depending on the style of the curtain panel, rods and mounting boards may be mounted inside or outside the window frame. For an inside mount, install the hardware inside the top of the frame so the molding is exposed. For an outside mount, install the hardware at the top of the window frame or on the wall above the window. Whe the hardware is mounted above the window frames, visual height is added to the window.

Some curtain panels can be mounted so they cover part of the wall at the sides of the window, adding visual width. When a curtain panel is mounted onto the wall, more glass can be exposed, letting in more light.

You will need to determine the finished length and finished width of the curtain panel. Then determine the cut length and cut width by adding the amounts needed for hems, rod pockets, seams, and fullness. If a patterned fabric is used, you will need to allow extra fabric for matching the pattern.

To determine the finished length of the curtain panel, measure from the rod or the mounting board to where you want the lower edge of the curtain panel. The measurement is usually taken from the top of the rod or board. When decorative rods are used, the measurement is taken from the pin hole in one of the rings or slides. Depending on the style of the curtain panel, you may need to add to this measurement an amount for heading or clearance above the rod.

To determine the finished width of the curtain panel, measure the length of the curtain rod or mounting board. For some curtain panels, it may also be necessary to measure the width of the return.