How To Buy Curtains Part One: Measuring

Let's start at the beginning: the first step is to establish your measurements. We have detailed guides for measuring for curtains, measuring for blinds and measuring for voile panels (click on the highlighted text to view) and would recommend you read these thoroughly before ordering.

But perhaps the most important advice we can offer is to ensure that you measure your track or pole rather than your window. If you haven't bought or fitted your track or pole yet we strongly recommend doing so before going any further. There are several good reasons for this:

1. The track or pole should extend either side of the window opening by at least 15 to 20cms (6 to 8") each side in order for you to be able to push your curtains back in the day without loosing any daylight. If this additional 40cms is not taken into account when you order your curtains, you'll find that they will not be gathered sufficiently, or even worse, in the case of pinch pleat curtains, they won't actually close!

2. Sometimes it's not possible to fit your track in the exact place you've envisioned it. Usually there is a metal lintel above the window opening which it's not possible to drill through. This means that most tracks must be fitted at least 10cms (4") above the opening to avoid the lintel. (If you absolutely must drill through the lintel - and the handy-man or woman in your life won't thank you for this! - helpful advice can be found at on-line DIY forums such as www.diynot.com).

3. We usually like our curtains to finish in a specific place, such as the floor or window sill. However, floors and sills are rarely level, especially in older, character properties. Ideally you would measure the drop in several places from the top of the pole or track and use the shortest measurement. We can't stress how imporatant this is, especially if you are purchasing made-to-measure or altered curtains.

So let's assume your track or pole is fitted and you've measured the width and the drop following our guides (links above); what's next?

Coming up in the series, we have 'what is gather?', 'choosing a heading style', 'choosing your fabric', 'ordering made easy' and 'how to hang your curtains like a professional'. Stick with us and watch this space: your windows will be beautifully dressed without you becoming stressed!