How to Measure for Curtains

Effortless Measuring for Perfectly Customized Curtains

At Freshine, we make measuring curtains effortless. Our Measurement Tool offers precise sizing at your fingertips, ensuring an easy and accurate process. Prefer a step-by-step guide? Simply follow our clear and concise 3-step measuring instructions below for perfect results.

Step 1: Measure Your Window/Door

Mount your rod or track at an appropriate height. We recommend positioning the rod as close to the ceiling as possible to create a more spacious look.


The rod should extend about 6-15 inches beyond each side of the window frame to minimize light leakage and allow sufficient space for curtain stacking.


If you wish to keep the full view of your window, consider the stack-back width in advance.

Step 2: Determine the Curtain Panel Width

Flat Top
Grommet and Rod Pocket
  • Per Panel Width= Rod or track width × 2.0 Fullness ÷ Panel Quantity
Flat Panel
  • Per Panel Width= Rod or track width × 2.5 Fullness ÷ Panel Quantity
Pleated Top
Pinch Pleat - Double & Euro Pleat - Double
  • Per Panel Width: Rod or track width × 2.0 Fullness ÷ Panel Quantity
Pinch Pleat - Triple & Euro Pleat - Triple
  • Per Panel Width: Rod or track width × 2.5 Fullness ÷ Panel Quantity
Ripple Fold
  • Per Panel Width*: Rod or track width × 2.5 Fullness ÷ Panel Quantity (*The top width when hung, with the bottom panel width being approximately 2.1 times this measurement.)
Note: If a rod or track is not yet installed, add 6-15 inches to each side of the window width to estimate the approximate rod/track width.

Step 3: Determine the Curtain Panel Length

Flat Top (Grommet, Rod Pocket, Back Tab)
  • Per Panel Length: Length above the rod + Top of the rod to the floor + Bottom length
Pleated Top (Pinch Pleat - Double/Triple, Euro Pleat - Double/Triple)
  • Per Panel Length: Top of the curtain to the floor + Bottom length
Ripple Fold
  • Per Panel Length: Bottom of the track to the floor + Bottom length
Different Bottom Measurements
  • 1/2 Inch Above the Floor: -1/2 inch
  • Kiss the Floor: 0
  • Puddling: +2-4 inches

*For more details, check the bottom options in the glossary below.

Glossary

Panel Type

Choose to cover your window with a single panel or two split panels.

Split Panel

A single curtain panel that draws one way, opening to the left or right. Also doubles as a stationary decorative panel.

Single Panel

Two equal pieces derived from one panel, with the width evenly divided. Opens in the middle.

Fullness

The ratio of fabric width to the width you want to cover on your curtain track or rod. Extra fabric creates beautiful waves and gathers at the top.
1X Fullness:

Completely flat. Not recommended.

1.5X Fullness:

Not full enough unless you rarely close the curtains.

2.0X Fullness:

Highly recommended for practical use and a nicely pleated look.

2.5X Fullness:

Features a lush, rich pleated design. Perfect for sheer curtains to make a bold statement.

Example:
  • Using a 42" wide panel to cover a 42" wide area (1X fullness) will look extremely flat.
  • Opting for an 84" wide panel for the same area (2X fullness) creates an instantly charming, wavy effect.

Bottom

Curtain length and how the drapes fall in different styles.
1/2 Inch Above the Floor

Crisp and easy to clean, keeping dust, fur, and debris at bay. Perfect for busy households.

Kiss the Floor

Floor-length with a streamlined effect, gently brushing the surface.

Puddling

2-4 inches puddled on the floor for a luxurious, creased look. Not ideal for curtains frequently opened or closed due to dust accumulation.

Stack Back

The curtain width stacked on each side of the window frame when fully open.
Note
Stack-back width is approximate and may vary depending on the bottom style, fabric, lining, and other curtain hardware.

What if the Size Exceeds the Maximum Limit?

Fabric Roll Width

The exact width of the fabric roll, typically around 110", which is the standard width used for curtain panels.

Rotation

The technique of rotating the fabric to extend the length of curtain panels exceeding 104" in length.

Splicing

The method of joining two fabric panels to meet the width and length requirements of oversized curtains exceeding 104". This process includes carefully sewn seams to maintain a visually appealing finish.