Measurement guide
Measure with confidence
Accurate finished dimensions are essential for made-to-measure curtains and shades. Choose the product and mounting method first, use a metal tape measure, and record every dimension twice before ordering.
Prepare
Decide the installation before measuring
The correct measuring points depend on the product, header or control style, and mounting position. A window opening alone is not always the finished order size.
Choose the product
Confirm whether you are ordering curtains, Roman shades, roller shades, or another window treatment.
Choose the mount
For shades, decide between inside and outside mount. For curtains, confirm rod or track placement.
Use one unit
Measure in the unit requested on the product page and do not convert between units during the process.
Record twice
Write down width and height clearly, then repeat the measurement before entering the order.
Curtains
Measure the hardware and finished drop
For curtains, measurements usually relate to the usable rod or track width and the distance from the hanging point to the desired lower edge.
Measure the usable hardware length rather than decorative finials. Confirm the correct vertical starting point for your chosen header.
Rod or track width
- If the hardware is installed, measure its usable length between the working endpoints.
- If it is not installed, decide the final mounting position and make sure the wall or ceiling can support it.
- Confirm whether the order asks for total finished width, width per panel, or rod/track width.
Finished curtain length
- Measure from the hanging point specified for the selected header—not automatically from the top of the rod.
- Measure to the intended endpoint, such as the sill, below the sill, or the floor.
- Check for uneven floors, radiators, furniture, handles, or other obstructions.
Fullness changes the depth and frequency of folds. How it is handled depends on the selected header and product configuration.
Finished width and fullness
Some headers build fullness into the sewn construction. Other styles use a wider finished panel to create gathering. Follow the width field and instructions shown on the product page rather than applying one formula to every style.
If ordering a pair, check whether the width field refers to each panel or to the combined finished width.
Curtain examples
Use the image for your selected header
The vertical starting point changes with hooks, rings, grommets, pockets, and ripple tracks. These existing diagrams illustrate common measuring references.
Pleated headers
Soft-top headers
Grommet headers
Ripple fold systems
Finished length
Shades
Choose inside or outside mount
The mount determines where you measure and how the finished shade relates to the window opening.
Inside mount
The shade fits within the window opening for a recessed appearance. The opening must have enough clear depth and a suitable mounting surface.
- Measure the inside width at the top, middle, and bottom
- Measure the inside height at multiple points
- Check depth and any handles or obstructions
- Follow the selected product's rule for which measurement to enter
Outside mount
The shade is installed over the window opening or trim. This can add coverage where an inside mount is not suitable.
- Measure the total area you want the shade to cover
- Check available wall or trim space on every side
- Allow room for mounting hardware and controls
- Confirm the desired overlap using the product instructions
Inside mount: record multiple width and height measurements and check the required depth.
Outside mount: measure the full coverage area and confirm mounting space around the window.
Final check
Review before you order
Custom-order changes are limited to the first 12 hours and only before production begins, so check every dimension and option before completing checkout.
Dimensions
- Width and height are not reversed
- All measurements use the same unit
- Each number was checked twice
Configuration
- Mounting method is confirmed
- Header or control style matches the hardware
- Panel quantity and opening direction are correct
Room conditions
- Handles and obstructions are considered
- Floor or frame irregularities are checked
- Desired coverage and light gaps are considered
Need another check?
Send us your measurement question
Tell us the product, mounting method, hardware type, and the measurements you have taken. Our customer service hours are Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM-6:00 PM (GMT+8).