How to measure curtains

Choosing the right style of curtains to suit both window and room can seem a daunting task at first, however this offers exciting opportunities to create a strong visual effects or to soften the mood in a room. 


Etude’s simple, pared-down made to measure curtains in linen fabric have an airy feel of relaxed informality. We offer fabrics to dress different windows, whatever their shape, focussing on treatments that reflect the spirit of the new, fresh and simple.

When choosing a fabric consider the amount of light that filters through the material, this will influence the whole effect. Natural light evokes in us deep-seated sense of well-being. The subtle play of light and shadow provides a feeling of peace and contentment. Our choices feature only unlined curtains which have this slightly translucent look. By keeping window treatment uncomplicated it is not difficult to create a light and airy mood throughout the house.

If you are interested in etude’s made to measure curtains all you need to do is to email info@etudeintunewithstyle.co.uk with your curtains measurements and choose a fabric from our range and heading style.

MEASURING UP
This is the most important stage and should be considered carefully. The fabric quantity depends on the style of curtains. Other factors to consider include the heading style.

Single pleat Heading


Creates a smart and relaxed look. This heading is suitable for both poles and tracks.

An eyelet heading


Creates clean and contemporary look. As well as looking neat, it takes up very little space when stacked back, making your room seem spacious and modern. The eyelets are available in a range of colours to match your pole.

CALCULATING FABRIC QUANTITY
When measuring the fabric for unlined curtains, allow for a 15cm (6in) hem and 6cm (2.5in) for each side hem.

Each Fabric Length
Measure the finished length of curtains and add appropriate turning allowances for the hem and your choice of heading. For example, you will need 15 cm (6 in) for double lower hem and 7.5 cm (3 in) for standard gathered heading.


NUMBER OF FABRIC WIDTHS
For curtains with heading tape:

  1. Measure the length of the track or pole and divide in half for two curtains.
  2. Add 10 cm (4in) for side turnings on one curtain. Add a further 10 cm (4in) for the curtains to overlap in the middle.
  3. Multiply this width by the degree of fullness appropriate for the heading style. For example, standard gathering tape requires one-and-a-half times the track or pole width; pencil pleat tapes two-and-quarter times the width; and pinch pleats two-and-a-half times the width.
  4. Divide this total width by the fabric width. Round up the resulting figure to the nearest full number to work out the number of fabric widths each curtain will take.

For curtains with hand-pleated headings:
  1. Measure the length of the track or pole. Divide in half for two curtains. Add 10 cm (4 in) for the side turnings on one curtain and further 10 cm (4 in) for the curtains to overlap in the middle.
  2. Work out the number of pleats and gaps that will fit the curtain with approximately 15 cm (6in) for each pleat and a gap of 12cm (4³/4 in ) between each pleat. Divide the width of curtain ( minus the side turnings and centre overlap) by 12 cm (4³/ 4 in).
    Round up or down to the nearest number. So, if you have eight gaps, you will need nine pleats.
  3. Work out the fabric needed for the pleats by multiplying the number of pleats by 15 cm (6in).
  4. Add this figure the total curtain width (including the side turnings and centre overlap) and an additional 12 cm (4³/4) for the side returns on the outer edge of each panel. Round up to the nearest full number.
  5. Divide the resulting figure by the width of the fabric. Round up to the nearest full number to find out the number of fabric widths for each curtain

Final Fabric Estimate
Multiply the overall curtain length by the number of fabric widths for both curtains to give the final fabric amount. Allow a further 2.5 cm (1 in) for every metre (yard) of non-preshrunk fabric.


Please allow 4 working weeks from the date of order to enable this work to be programmed, completed and delivered. Please note, we cannot accept refunds on bespoke items. Unfortunately, we're unable to accept returns where the incorrect measurements have been provided – so make sure you measure in centimetres accurately!


BESPOKE CURTAIN ORDER CANCELLATION
If you do wish to cancel your fully bespoke curtain order, we're happy to offer a full refund if you cancel within 24 hours of payment being made. To do this, simply notify us by email. If you wish to cancel your curtain order after 24 hours, we'll retain up to 50% of the cost and refund 50% back to you.