How to measure your windows for curtains

Curtains hung from track - Window with an architrave

1. Illustration A shows the most popular position of the curtain track where its top edge is flush with the top edge of the architrave.
2. Depending on your preference, either measure the drop from the top of the upper sill architrave to 15cm below the lower sill architrave, or alternatively measure to the floor. This is your "Curtain Drop".
3. To allow the curtains to stand back from the window edge when drawn open add 20cm to either side of the window measurement. eg Window width + 40cm = Track length

Curtains hung from track - Window without an architrave

1. Our illustration B. again shows the recommended position of the track, its top edge 40mm above the top edge of the window sill.
2. For window length curtains measure from where the top of the track would be positioned to 15cm below the sill. For floor length measure to the floor.
3. Again, to allow the curtains to stand back from the window edge when drawn open, add 20cm to either side of the window measurement. eg Window width + 40cm = Track length

Curtains hung from a rail

1. The recommended position for a curtain rail is 20cm above the top edge of the window sill or architrave to ensure minimal light leakage.
2. For window length curtains measure from where the top of the rail would be positioned to 15cm below the sill. For floor length measure to the floor.
3. Again, to allow the curtains to stand back from the window edge when drawn open, add 20cm to either side of the window measurement. eg Window width + 40cm = Track length