A curtain is a piece of fabric or other material that is hung over a window. They are popular for varying reasons, such as light control and privacy, softening a space and adding color.
When choosing a curtain, it’s important to choose the right size for your window and the room in which it will hang. Too-small curtains can look awkward and make the room feel smaller, while too-large ones may not fit well in a specific spot.
Measure the Window
If you’re looking to install curtains in your home, it’s important to make sure the window is properly measured before going to purchase a curtain rod and material. The wrong size window can cause air leaks that reduce energy efficiency and water leaks that damage the walls and floors.
The first step in measuring your window is to determine the width and height of the frame. To do this, you’ll need to raise the sash to expose the jambs, or sides of the window. Then, use your measuring tape to measure the width of the window from each jamb.
This is important because it allows you to determine how many panels are required. It also helps you select the length of the curtains.
To get the proper width of the window, you will need to take three measurements from the surface of the jambs at the top, middle and bottom. Begin with the far left side of the window, and then move the measuring tape down to the approximate vertical middle.
Repeat this process for the other two sides of the window. This is the simplest way to determine the width of the window.
After you have taken these measurements, write down the smallest of the three figures on paper. Then, refer to this figure as the smallest measurement when you go to order your replacement window.
Another important consideration when you’re measuring a window for curtain application is the depth of the opening. This is a crucial factor because some windows are too deep to fit into an opening.
If your window is too wide, you’ll need to purchase an extra panel or two to cover the extra space. However, this can be a time-consuming and expensive process.
The height of the window opening is a bit trickier. This is because it’s not as easy to accurately measure the height of a window as the width.
To find the correct height, you’ll need to take three measurements from the sash. These measurements should be taken from the top horizontal board above the window (the head jamb) to the bottom sill.
Determine the Number of Panels
One of the most important decisions that you will need to make when you are installing curtains is how many panels to hang. The number of panels needed will depend on what type of drapery look you want for your windows and how wide the window is.
To determine the number of curtain panels you will need to purchase, measure the width of your window and add 12 inches to each side (24 inches total). Then divide this measurement by the number of drapery panels you wish to order.
You should also factor in the style of curtains you choose for your window. If you prefer curtains with a relaxed, tailored look, then the number of curtain panels should be 1.5 to 2 times the window’s width. For a more luxurious look, curtains should be twice or even three times the width of the window.
Once you have determined the number of curtain panels that you will need to buy, you need to determine the fullness of the finished curtains. Generally, grommet panels have 1.5 to 2 times fullness, rod pocket or gathered curtains have 2.5 to 3 times fullness, and sheers usually have 3 to 4 times fullness.
Depending on the fabric that you choose for your curtains, you will need to use two or three rings to hang the curtain rod. Typically, a curtain rod should be 8 to 16 inches wider than the window to allow for the room’s maximum amount of light to come through the window when the curtains are closed.
In general, you should always hang the curtain rod on the floor, unless there is a radiator or deep sill in the way of the window. This allows the curtain to hang below the window frame, which helps make the window appear larger and provides more privacy from outside the house.
You can find ready-made panel sets in a range of lengths from 63 to 144 inches. Ideally, you should hang your curtains on a rod that is at least 6 feet long. This will allow you to see the pretty molding when you open your curtains, and will also help make the room appear taller.
Determine the Length of the Curtains
Curtains not only block light, reduce noise and create privacy, they can also add a sophisticated aesthetic to any room. But, not all window treatments are created equal and knowing how to measure for curtains can be a challenge.
The length of your curtains is one of the most important considerations in determining the look and feel of your room. The wrong length can make a space look awkward and incomplete.
In order to choose the right length for your window, you need to take into account several factors. These include the style of your window, the size of the rod and your preferences.
First, determine whether you want your curtains to hang on the floor, at the sill or a bit lower. If you decide on a floor-hanging style, you will need to measure from the top of your mounting rod down to the window sill.
If you prefer your curtains to fall at the sill, measure from the bottom of the mounting rod until you reach the desired length. Then, add another 1 cm to the total length measured.
This length will ensure that your curtains hang exactly where you want them to, and it will also allow you to enjoy the “puddle” effect. Puddle curtains are the most elegant of all hanging styles and can make any window look like it’s floating above the floor.
Aside from puddle curtains, you can also choose from cafe, sill and apron-length curtains. These are shorter, making them ideal for nooks and windows that are small or that would otherwise be blocked by full-length drapes.
These are also good choices for kitchen and bathroom windows, especially if you want a little more privacy or to reduce the sun directly in your face. They are casual and charming and allow you to use a variety of patterns, colors and trims that you may not want to use for full-length curtains.
If you’re using ready-made curtains, you should always measure your window and then choose a curtain that fits the length you need. The measurements are usually listed on the packages, but they can vary slightly depending on the type of curtain and hardware.
Decide on the Fabric
Choosing the fabric for curtain application is an important step in determining the style and look of your curtains. The fabric you choose should be a good match with the other decorating materials in your home, as well as with the function of the room it will hang in.
There are many different types of fabrics available for making curtains, including natural fabrics and synthetics. Each of these options carries with it its own unique qualities and properties, such as the weight of the fabric, the thickness and opacity, and the ability to block out or allow in light.
The choice of the fabric will also depend on the purpose of the curtains, as some are more functional than others. For example, a blackout fabric is ideal for blocking out light while allowing in some privacy; while a sheer fabric is perfect for letting in just enough light to make you feel cosy inside.
A variety of fabrics can be used to make curtains, such as cotton, linen, silk, wool and polycotton. In addition, a variety of weaves and thread counts can be used as well.
If you want to add a little flair to your window treatments, consider using a fabric with a pattern. This will help to tie in the design of your decor, and it will also allow for easier and quicker hanging and cleaning.
To calculate how much fabric you need for your curtains, begin by measuring the window and figuring out the length and width. Next, multiply the length by the number of panels you need.
For instance, if you need to hang two panels on a 48″-wide window that is 36″ tall, you will need at least 3 yards of fabric.
Once you have figured out how much you need for your curtains, it is time to pick the fabric. This can be a daunting task, especially if you are not sure what to look for.
Aside from the fabric’s color and weight, you should also keep in mind how durable it is. The more durable the fabric, the longer it will last. This is particularly important if you have children or pets.