When thinking of draperies, I’m often asked the question .  ”How do you measure for draperies?”  This article will simply explain, the best way to measure for draperies.
Before measuring your windows for pleated draperies you must first determine if you want a full view of the glass when your draperies are in an open position. If the answer is yes, and ideally draperies should clear the window, follow these instructions.
Step 1.   Measure for the width first.
Measure from the outside of the window frame (assuming there is a window frame) on the left to the outside of the window frame on the right. If there is no frame just measures the opening from left side to right to get the width of the window. Take this measurement and add 20% to what ever the measurement is. For example, if you measured 100 wide add 20 to that to totally 120.   Then add 12 more inches on to that for overlap (this is were the draperies will meet and overlap in the middle) and return ( this is were the draperies on each side comes to the end of the rod and  go back to the wall.  Take note of how much space is available on left beyond the frame, then on right beyond the frame. This is the area where your draperies will stack back when they are open.
Now, let’s get the measurement for the length of the drapery.
Step 2.  Measure from the top of the frame (if there is no frame, measure from the top of the window) to the floor. If you do not want you draperies to hang to the floor measure to 3″ below the window ceil.    This measurement will be the length of your draperies.
That’s it!  It’s as simple as that.   Please send me your questions and comments, or if you know a better way, let us know.
 Visit Us at Linda’s Curtain Studio for more tips and ideas.