Measure Drapery

From tools to rod width, pleat factor, final width, and height—everything you need for a flawless, stylish window treatment.


I. Upgraded Tool Checklist

Required Tools

· Steel tape measure (Note: fabric tape measures may be off by up to 3%)

· Notepad or digital notes app

Optional Tools

· Step ladder (recommended for ceiling heights above 2.7 meters)

· Level to ensure your rod or window frame is straight


II. How to Determine Curtain Rod Width

Formula:
Curtain Rod Width = Window Frame Width + (Extension × 2)

Recommended Extensions:
Extend 6–15 inches beyond the window frame on each side. This ensures proper light blockage and allows curtains to stack neatly when open.

Example:
Window Frame Width: 36 inches
Extension: 6 inches on each side
Curtain Rod Width = 36 + (6 × 2) = 48 inches


III. How to Choose the Right Pleat Factor

The pleat factor determines how full your curtains will appear. The higher the factor, the richer the drape.

Pleat Factor

Effect

Ideal For

1.5×

Sleek, minimal look

Minimalist spaces, small windows

Standard fullness, balanced appearance

Living rooms, bedrooms

2.5×

Rich pleats, added dimension

Luxury interiors, formal settings

Luxurious, dramatic volume

Hotels, luxury homes, large windows

Our Tips:

· Blackout fabric: Use 2× or above for structure and opacity

· Sheers: Use 1.5× to 2× for lightness and flow

· High-end look: Choose 2.5× to 3× for a luxe effect


IV. How to Calculate Curtain Width

Formula:
Curtain Width = Curtain Rod Width × Pleat Factor

Example:
Curtain Rod Width: 48 inches
Pleat Factor: 2×
Curtain Width = 48 × 2 = 96 inches


V. How to Measure Curtain Height

Step 1: Rod Position
Install the rod 6–10 inches above the window frame, or closer to the ceiling for added height.

Step 2: Height Measurement
Measure vertically from the top of the rod or track down to the floor.

Step 3: Choose Your Curtain Drop Style

Style

Length Difference

Visual Effect

Recommended Use

Pooling

+6 to +12 inches

Luxurious and dramatic

Formal living rooms, bedrooms

Sheer Layered

+2 to +6 inches

Soft and romantic

Sunrooms, layered window treatments

Floor-Length

0 inches

Crisp, clean, modern

Most modern interiors

Floating

-0.5 to -1 inch

Easy to clean, practical

Kitchens, kids’ rooms, bathrooms

Suggested Guidelines:

· For a modern look: floor-length (0 inches)

· For low maintenance: floating (-0.5 to -1 inch)

· For a luxurious look: pooling (+6 to +12 inches)


Example Calculation:

· Rod is installed 6 inches above the window frame

· Distance from rod to floor: 80 inches

· Style: Floating (-1 inch)

Final Curtain Height:
6 + 80 - 1 = 85 inches


If you have further questions, our customer support team is here to help you.