Measuring for Pinch Pleated Draperies
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.
March 7th, 2008 at 8:19 pm
I’ve been plagued by the same questions. I found a very useful guide on how to measure for drapes:
http://www.prioritywindows.com/catalog/Drapery-Measuring-Guide-sp-201.html
I hope it helps others like it helped me.
March 23rd, 2008 at 2:08 pm
[…] Measuring for Pinch Pleated Draperies […]
April 15th, 2008 at 6:48 pm
adding 12″ for returns and overlap. Is that allowing 3″ for returns each panel and 3″ for over lap each panel? I usually hear 3 1/2 returns and 4″ overlap. Does it depend on the traverse rod?
April 15th, 2008 at 9:33 pm
Hi Julie,
Let me explain, it is 3 1/2″ for each return (=7), and 2 1/2″ overlap for each panel (=5) with a total of 12″.
I suppose there are draperies that are made with 4″ instead of 5″ for overlaps and 3″ for returns. However, in our shop we seem to get a better look with the 5″ for overlap and 3 1/2″ returns.
Also, you should be able to adjust your rod to fit the drapery return.
Thanks for your comments and visiting our site!
Vee
http://www.lindascurtainstudio.com
June 21st, 2008 at 12:50 am
I am trying to figure out how much space is required to each side of a window in order to have the entire pleated drape stack off the window itself. I can’t seem to find a formula for this question. Is there an answer? Thank you
June 22nd, 2008 at 6:14 pm
Hi Carla,
Measure the width of you window ( the glass only not molding around the glass).
Add 15% to that width.
Take the 15% and divide it by2. This will give you your stack back for your draperies on each side of the window.
Example : Your window (glass only) is 100″ wide—
Add 15% which = 15
Divide the 15 by 2 = 7 1/2
You will have 7 1/2″ on each side of your window for stack back.
If you have a really heavy drapery you may want to add 20%? instead of 15%.
Thanks for visiting our blog and let me know if that works out for you.
Best Regards!
Linda
www.lindascurtainstudio.com