Wandle Wilde fabric made into curtains by Country Furnishings and photographed by Chris Snook for a private client.

How to measure for curtains? Whether you are making curtains yourself or have found a curtain-maker; every project begins with some basic measurements, to ensure that you order enough fabric. Here's what to do;

THE TWO KEY MEASUREMENTS

1. Ideally you would install the curtain pole first, or at last have chosen the pole so you know it's length and also how far above the window you intend to place it. Note that placement can change if you encounter issues with drilling into a certain part of the wall for example. That is why we suggest installing the pole before your curtains are made. 
   (If you believe you have wiggle room in terms of where a pole can be positioned, then it may be ok to install the pole and hang the curtains on the same day. This method means you can position the pole to suit the curtain length. But it is a more complicated two-person task).
   Next, your curtain maker needs to know a few key things I) The width and length of the area the curtains should cover and II) The style of curtain you want. I get onto styles more below but first let's take those two key measurements, the length and width...
2. The first measurement is the overall width that the curtains will cover. This is the width of your curtain pole, excluding finials. A pole should always be wider than the window so that open curtains lie against the wall either side of the window and don't block the light coming in, or the view looking out. We suggest a pole is approx 30cm wider on each side. But it can vary depending how thick your curtains will be (wide windows, pleats and lining all contribute the the fabric bulk). If it is only a light curtain you can get away with less side space. The amount of wall space available will also dictate things - you may have a window in a corner for example - in this case I would consider just one curtain rather than a pair.
   Interior designers and some curtain makers will offer to visit your home and help you to make these choices if you are are unsure. (This page can help you find a maker).
3. Once you have ascertained the curtain width, the next measurement you need is the length. This is the distance from the pole or track, down to the floor - or down to just below the windowsill (wherever you want the curtain to finish). If you're using a pole with rings, let you maker know as this effects the measurement too. 
4. Once your maker has these two measurements they will factor in other elements; such as allowing for curtains to overlap when closed. Don't worry about that, just be clear that you have not allowed for it.
5. As mentioned at the start of this guide, you will need to choose a style of curtain. (This decides the fabric required for gathering / pleats and any extra frills). You also need to choose your fabric as the pattern scale is important too! Your maker may need extra fabric to match up a large pattern. Once you've made those decisions, simply pass them onto the person making the curtains, so they can carry out the remaining calculations and tell you the quantity of cloth required.
   It's vital that these calculations are made before ordering fabric, so that we cut the correct quantity for you. 

CHOOSING A CURTAIN STYLE

There are all kinds of styles for curtains and blinds but for the purpose of this guide I'll explain the most common curtain styles, particularly popular in British homes.

1. Firstly choose a style of gathering, a simple browse of images will show you the visual difference between 'pencil pleat' and 'pinch pleat' - the two most classic styles. Pencil pleat gives a continuous gather, whereas pinch pleat has additional, double or triple pleats at regular intervals (and this uses more fabric).
2. Next choose the style for the top edge of the curtain. For a cottage curtain, you might like a 'flop over' or frill top - these are both added to the 'pencil pleat' method but will require more fabric length. These styles are nice for bedrooms and period homes.
   For a relaxed, elegant look you might choose a 'tab top' - this uses much less fabric and is suitable for light curtains, but not thicker, lined ones. (Think about how much warmth and light you want the curtains to keep in and out).
   Classic curtains for reception rooms, look best simply hung on a nice pole without the need for frills, but your curtain maker will need to know if you have chosen a track or a pole and the size of the curtain rings. 

These stylistic choices matter because they dictate where the maker attaches the curtain tape and can also alter the amount of fabric required. Once you and your maker have decided all this information, you are ready to order fabric (and any linings and trims). Then the process of making your new curtains can begin! 
As you may be thinking, there are quite a few considerations and that is why working with an interior designer, or professional curtain maker in person can make things easier.

FIND A MAKER

If you are wondering where to find a curtain maker you may find our made to measure curtains page useful too.

Sophie x