Measuring Basics

How to Measure for Curtains

Learn the basic curtain measurements to take before choosing panel width, length, rod size, and hanging height.

Measure the window opening first, then decide whether the curtains will hang inside or outside the frame. For most rooms, outside mount curtains are more forgiving because the fabric can extend beyond the glass and make the window feel larger.

Measurements to Take

• Window width across the frame or glass area.
• Window height from the top of the frame to the sill or floor target.
• Wall space on both sides if you plan to mount the rod outside the frame.
• Distance from the planned rod position to the finished curtain endpoint.

Quick Recommendation

For a simple starting point, choose total curtain width around 2 times the window width. Use the curtain size calculator to adjust that number for mount type, fullness, and panel width.

Measure Your Window

Use the curtain size calculator to turn your measurements into curtain width, panel count, rod width, and length recommendations before you order.