Drapery Measuring Instruction

Simplify your curtain measuring process with our Drapery Measurement Finder first, designed to guide you through each step effortlessly for a hassle-free experience.

Step 1: Measure the Width (Determine Rod/Track Length and Placement)

If you have had the rod installed, please measure the rod length and record this measurement.

If you do not have the rod installed, first decide where you want the curtain rod to be mounted above and on the sides of the window frame. Consider how high you want the rod to create the desired visual effect.

  • Height Above the Window Frame: Typically, curtain rods are installed 6-10 inches above the window frame to create the illusion of a taller window. Mark this height lightly with a pencil or use masking tape as a guide.
  • Width Beyond the Window Frame: Add extra width (normally 6-15 inches) on each side of the window frame for the curtains stack. Mark these points lightly with a pencil or use masking tape as a guide.

Step 2: Know Tailorvibe Default Fullness

To avoid draperies looking like a stretched sheet, you need to consider to add fullness for certain header styles for additional width to cover.

Pleated Style

The fabric fullness is already accounted for in the design. We use 200-230% fabric fullness to create the pleats, ensuring a rich and voluminous look.

  • 2x Fullness for pinch pleat, tailor pleat, inverted pleat, and goblet style.
  • 2.3x Fullness for triple pleat and triple tailor pleat style.

It means you do not need to add extra width for fullness; it's already built into the processing of curtain.

Soft Top and Grommet Style

The default fullness is 1 (or 100%), then the drapes should consider 150-200% fullness for final measured width. 150% fullness will produce a more tailored look, while 200% fullness, which is recommended will create a richer, more opulent appearance. Recommended Fullness:

  • 1.5 times the rod width for a moderate gather.
  • 2 times the rod width for a standard gather.
  • You determine the fullness ratio to create folds according to header type.
  • You determine how many panels you need to achieve the desired fullness.
  • Fullness ratio varies by header styles.

Ripple Fold Style

  • The default fullness is 2 (or 200%), 200% fabric width is used for wave folds to create the finished width you order. Adding additional fabric to create fullness is unnecessary.
  • Tailorvibe's Ripple Fold-Tape Buckle Type: use fabric tapes that are sewn into the top of the curtain panels.

Step 3: Determine Drapery Finished Width and Length (with example)

Pleated

Soft Top

Grommet

Ripple Fold

Determine Width

  • For Pleated Style, Single Panel Width = Rod Track Full Length / Panel Quantity
  • For Soft Top Style, Single Panel Width = (Rod Track Full Length x 200% fullness) / Panel Quantity
  • For Grommet Style, Single Panel Width = (Rod Track Full Length x 200% fullness) / Panel Quantity
  • For Ripple Fold Style, Single Panel Width = Rod Track Full Length / Panel Quantity

Find Your Perfect Placement

  • Different curtain lengths create diverse visual experiences to your room.

Note

  • Your custom drapery will be made to the width and length you specify.
  • Headers include French Pleat, Pinch Pleat, Pinch Pleat with Back Tab, Triple Pleat, Tailor Pleat, Triple Tailor Pleat, Flat Hooks, will come with adjustable pin hooks. Drapery rings or clip rings need to be purchased separately.
  • Use a steel tape measure, measuring to the nearest 1 inch in width and length.
  • Measure each window and doorway individually.
  • The perception of fullness can vary. Some may prefer a more relaxed drape, while others might want a fuller, more gathered appearance. Consider your personal taste and the intended look of your space when selecting the fullness factor.
  • This guide offers recommendations and advice but not inclusive for covering all possible scenarios and methods. For more complex measurements and inquiries, please email us at service@tailorvibe.com.