How to Measure for Custom Curtains: A Step-by-Step Guide

If your rod is already installed，measure from the outside edge of one bracket to the outside edge of the other. For a track, run the full length end to end — finials don't count. Record this measurement — this is your rod width.

If you’re installing a new rod, your rod should extend beyond the frame on both sides — enough to close off light gaps, let curtains stack clear of the glass, and make the window feel larger. We recommend 8–12 inches past the frame on each side.

Pro tip: Install the rod before you take your final measurements. Measuring from the actual setup removes the guesswork and ensures a fit that's right from the start.

Step 2: Measure Your Curtain Length

With your rod in place, decide how you'd like your curtains to fall.There are three standard options:

• Above the floor：Lives off the floor. Cleaner, lighter, no dust drag. Made for real life — open, close, repeat.
• Floor length：Just brushes the ground. Natural, never forced. The one that feels right in any room.
• Puddle：Falls where it wants. That undone, grounded look only fabric this honest can do. Leave it be — it's not meant to move much.Best suited for decorative rooms where curtains remain mostly stationary.

Where to start measuring depends on your header style:

And one thing you still need to care about is measuring from the rod to the floor in multiple spots — floors and window sills are often slightly uneven. Use the measurement that gives you the clearance you prefer, and always check the lowest point to avoid dragging.

With your width locked in, it's time to figure out how many panels you need, this depends on your window size and the look you prefer.

For most windows, we recommend 2 panels for the most balanced appearance. Two panels frame the window evenly and close neatly at the center.

If you prefer a different setup, here’s a simple way to figure out what you need:

Number of Panels = Rod Width ÷ Desired Panel Width

Example: If your rod is 80 inches wide and you want each panel to be 40 inches wide — 80 ÷ 40 = 2 panels

Good to Know: All Rawlune curtains are crafted with 2× fullness as standard for Pinch Pleat headers. Prefer a different fullness?Simply leave a note at checkout or contact our team—we're happy to customize it for you.

Step 3: convert your measurements into your curtain size

Now let’s turn your measurements into the final size for your order.

In Step 1, you measured your rod width. In Step 2, you chose your curtain length. Here’s how those numbers become your curtain size:

Example 1 

Example 2 

That’s it — you now have everything you need to place your order. Enter these numbers on the collection page and choose your fabric, and your custom curtains will be on their way.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: How wide should curtains be?

Answer: Rod width ÷ number of panels.

Question: Should curtains touch the floor?

Answer: “Above the floor” for easy cleaning, “Floor Length” for a classic look, or “puddle” for a soft, relaxed feel. It's your choice.

Question: How many curtain panels do I need?

Answer：Two panels for most windows. Use rod width ÷ desired panel width to calculate other configurations.

Question: How high should I hang curtain rods?

Answer: 8–12 inches above the window frame for a taller look and better light coverage.

Question: Can I use the same measurements for tracks?

Answer: Yes. For tracks, measure end to end, excluding finials, and length calculations stay the same.

Before ordering your custom curtains.

• Rod or track installed, brackets in place
• Width confirmed
• Rod extends 8–12 inches beyond the window frame on each side and mounted 8–12 inches above the frame
• Length measured from the right starting point for your header style
• Length checked in multiple spots — left, center, right — and lowest point noted
• Floor clearance chosen: float, break, or puddle
• Panel count and width calculated

Now that you have your measurements, you’re ready to choose curtains that fit beautifully the first time.

Whether you're looking for airy linen curtains,room-darkening drapes, or full blackout curtains, every Rawlune curtain is custom made to your exact measurement.

Need a little extra help?

Browse our custom curtain collection.

Watch our step-by -step measuring video

Contact our team for free measuring advice before ordering.