Drapery Measuring Instruction

Choosing the right curtain size plays a vital role in the overall look and functionality of your space. This easy-to-follow guide is designed to walk you through the measuring process, ensuring you achieve a beautiful, well-fitting result for your custom drapes.

Step 1: Determine Your Rod or Track Placement and Width

Step 1: Determine Your Rod or Track Placement and Width

If your curtain rod or track is already installed, simply measure the total length from one end to the other.

If it's not yet installed, start by deciding where you'd like to mount it—both in terms of height above the window frame and how far it extends beyond each side.

  • Height Above the Window Frame: Mounting your rod 6–10 inches above the window typically gives the illusion of taller windows and adds elegance to the space.
  • Width Beyond the Window Frame: We suggest extending the rod 6–15 inches past each side of the window frame. This allows curtains to stack without blocking natural light and makes your window appear larger.

Use a pencil or masking tape to mark your desired rod placement before installation.

Step 2: Understand Fullness and How It Affects the Look

Step 2: Understand Fullness and How It Affects the Look

Curtain fullness refers to how much fabric is used relative to the rod or track width. More fullness creates a richer, more luxurious appearance.

For Outside Mounts and Pleated Styles:

  • Pinch Pleat, Goblet, Inverted Box, Tailor Pleat Styles

    Default: 2x fullness (2.3x for triple pleat styles)

    Want a fuller look? You can add an extra 1.25x width—optional, based on personal preference.

For Soft Top and Grommet Styles:

Default is 1x fullness, but:

  • 1.5x = Light gathers for a sleeker look
  • 2x = Standard fullness, recommended for a more elegant appearance

Determine your desired ratio based on how gathered or flat you want your drapes to appear.

1x Fullness

1.5x Fullness

2x Fullness

Ripple Fold Styles

We offer two types:

  • Belt Hook Type – Features sewn-in straps with hooks for secure mounting
  • Belt Hook Type – Uses sewn-in tapes for a clean, continuous wave effect

These styles have built-in fullness and are measured differently. Contact us if unsure which option suits your room.

Step 3: Measure Your Desired Curtain Width and Finished Length

Pleated

Soft Top

Grommet

➤ Ripple Fold Length Measurement:

  • If your track is already installed: Measure from the bottom of the carriers or hooks to the desired end point (floor, sill, etc.)
  • If not installed yet: Measure from the intended mounting point (wall or ceiling) down to your desired length.

Use this formula to calculate the finished curtain length:

Curtain Length = Total Height – Track Height – Preferred Floor Gap

Example:

If the track will be installed 96" from the floor, the track (with hooks) adds 2", and you want a 1" gap from the floor:

Curtain Length = 96 – 2 – 1 = 93 inches

This ensures a clean, tailored appearance.

Ripple Fold

➤ Width Calculation by Header Style:

Header Style Table
Header Style Pleated Style Soft Top Style Grommet Style Ripple Fold Style
Window Frame Overall Width (inches) 80 80 80 80
Rod/Track Full Length (End to End) (inches) 100 100 100 100
Fullness Ratio 2-2.3x (default) 1.5x 2x 2 (default)
Panel Quantity (panel) 2 2 2 1
Single Panel Width to Order (inches) 50 75 100 100 in pair
(50 per panel)

Final Tips: How Curtain Length Impacts the Room

  • Floor-Length Curtains: Classic and elegant, ideal for living rooms and bedrooms.
  • Below-Window Length: Casual and functional, perfect for kitchens or playrooms.
  • Puddled Curtains: Adds drama and luxury, often used in formal spaces or styled photo shoots.

Helpful Notes Before You Order

  • Your curtains will be custom-made to the dimensions you provide
  • Pleated headers come with adjustable pin hooks. Curtain rings or clip rings must be purchased separately.
  • Always measure with a steel tape to the nearest inch.
  • Measure each window individually—even if they appear similar.
  • Fullness is a personal preference. Choose based on your desired visual impact.
  • This guide covers general recommendations; if your setup is more complex, feel free to contact us at sales@longtermhouse.com for one-on-one assistance.

Drapery Measuring Instruction

Step 1

What style of drape hanging header would you like?

Choose One

Soft Top (No Pleats)

Includes rod pocket, flat hook, back tab, tab top, and hook belt styles. Be sure to account for fullness when ordering.


Pleated (Structured Styles)


Includes pinch pleats, triple pleats, goblets, inverted box pleats, and more—ideal for a tailored, elegant look.


Grommet (Modern Look)


Features metal rings along the top—easy to install and visually clean.