At a Glance

Getting your curtain measurements right is the key to achieving a professional-looking result.

✓ Measure the window, then decide how you want the curtains to look.

✓ Install curtain rods 15–30 cm above the window, where possible, to create the illusion of higher ceilings.

✓ Extend curtain rods 20–30 cm past each side of the window to maximise natural light when curtains are open.

✓ Floor-length curtains create the most elegant and timeless appearance.

✓ Always consider curtain fullness—not just window width—for beautifully soft folds.

✓ If your windows are unusually large or require a tailored fit, custom-made curtains may be the better option.

Introduction

Beautiful curtains don't happen by accident.

You can invest in premium fabrics, timeless colours and quality workmanship, but if the measurements are wrong, even the most expensive curtains can look disappointing.

Curtains that are too short make ceilings appear lower. Curtains that are too narrow leave windows looking unfinished. Hanging the rod too close to the frame can make a spacious room feel smaller than it really is.

Fortunately, measuring curtains isn't difficult once you understand a few simple principles.

Professional interior designers don't measure curtains simply to cover the glass—they measure them to enhance the architecture of the room. The goal is to create windows that appear larger, ceilings that feel taller and interiors that look balanced and refined.

In this guide, we'll explain exactly how to measure curtains correctly, common mistakes to avoid, and the simple design techniques professionals use to create beautifully proportioned windows.

Whether you're buying ready-made curtains or planning custom-made window furnishings, these practical tips will help you achieve a polished result from the very beginning.

Chapter 1 — Before You Pick Up the Tape Measure

Many homeowners think measuring begins with the window.

In reality, it begins with a decision:

How do you want the finished room to look?

This single question influences every measurement that follows.

Professional designers rarely aim to make curtains fit the window perfectly. Instead, they use curtains to improve the room's visual proportions.

A standard-sized window can appear significantly larger simply by adjusting where the curtain rod is installed and how much fabric extends beyond the frame.

This is one of the reasons professionally styled homes feel more spacious, even when the room dimensions are identical.

Step 1 — Decide Where the Curtain Rod Will Sit

Before measuring the curtains themselves, determine the position of the curtain rod.

This measurement affects the overall appearance more than almost anything else.

As a general guide:

• Position the curtain rod or track approximately 15–30 cm above the window frame, where ceiling height allows.
• In modern homes with higher ceilings, installing the rod closer to the ceiling creates an even more dramatic effect.
• Avoid mounting the rod directly above the frame unless space is limited.

Why?

Higher curtain rods naturally draw the eye upward, making the room feel taller and more open.

It's a simple adjustment that delivers one of the biggest visual improvements.

Step 2 — Measure Wider Than the Window

Another common mistake is choosing a curtain rod that's only as wide as the window.

Professional designers almost never do this.

Instead, they extend the rod beyond both sides of the window—typically by 20–30 cm on each side.

This offers several advantages:

• The window appears significantly wider.
• More natural light enters the room when the curtains are open.
• Curtains stack neatly beside the glass rather than covering part of the window.
• The room feels brighter and more spacious.

For large feature windows, extending the rod even further can create an elegant, hotel-inspired look.

Step 3 — Measure the Finished Curtain Height

Now that the rod position is established, it's time to measure the curtain length.

For most living rooms, bedrooms and dining rooms, the preferred finish is:

Just above the floor.

This creates a clean, tailored appearance while allowing the curtains to move freely.

Some homeowners prefer a very slight break where the fabric gently touches the floor for a softer, more luxurious feel.

By contrast, curtains ending halfway between the window and the floor almost always make the room feel shorter and less refined.

As a general rule:

• Living rooms: Floor-length curtains.
• Bedrooms: Floor-length curtains.
• Dining rooms: Floor-length curtains.
• Home offices: Floor-length curtains.
• Bathrooms and laundries: Shorter curtains may be appropriate depending on the layout.

Step 4 — Don't Forget Curtain Fullness

This is perhaps the most overlooked measurement of all.

Many people buy curtains based only on the width of the window.

Professional designers measure for fullness.

Why?

Beautifully flowing curtains require extra fabric to create soft, even folds.

Flat curtains can look inexpensive, regardless of the fabric's quality.

Well-proportioned curtains create depth, movement and elegance.

The amount of fullness required depends on the fabric and heading style, but it's one of the key reasons professionally installed curtains always appear richer and more luxurious.

Common Measuring Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced renovators occasionally make simple measuring errors.

The most common include:

• Measuring only the glass instead of the finished curtain area.
• Installing the rod too low.
• Choosing curtains that are too short.
• Forgetting to allow enough width for natural folds.
• Ignoring furniture positioned beneath the window.
• Measuring in a hurry without double-checking dimensions.

Spending a few extra minutes measuring carefully can save considerable time, money and frustration later.

Chapter 2 — How to Measure Curtains for Different Types of Windows

No two windows are exactly alike.

A bedroom window requires a different approach from a large sliding door, while a bay window presents different challenges again. The good news is that the same design principles apply to almost every window in your home.

The goal isn't simply to cover the glass—it's to make the entire room feel larger, brighter and more balanced.

Let's look at the most common window types found in Australian homes.

Measuring Standard Bedroom Windows

Bedroom windows are usually the easiest to measure.

Because blockout curtains are commonly used in bedrooms, accuracy is particularly important for achieving the best possible light control.

Start by measuring:

• The planned curtain rod width.
• The distance from the top of the rod to the floor.
• The width of the entire window opening.

Avoid measuring only the glass itself.

Remember, curtains should extend beyond the window frame to create a fuller appearance and improve privacy.

If your bedroom receives strong morning sunlight, consider allowing additional width so the curtains overlap comfortably when closed.

Designer Tip

Think about how the curtains will look when they're open and when they're closed. Wider curtain rods allow more of the window to remain exposed, bringing additional daylight into the room.

Measuring Living Room Windows

Living rooms often feature the largest windows in the home.

Rather than trying to hide these windows, your curtains should emphasise their size.

Whenever space allows:

• Install the curtain rod higher than the window.
• Extend it beyond both sides.
• Use full-length curtains.
• Consider layering sheer and blockout curtains.

This approach creates the elegant appearance commonly found in luxury homes while making the room feel noticeably larger.

If your living room has multiple windows along one wall, treating them as a single continuous feature often produces a cleaner, more contemporary result.

Pair your finished window styling with Wall Art, Decorative Mirrors, and Framed Canvas Prints to create an impressive focal point.

Measuring Sliding Glass Doors

Sliding doors require slightly different planning because the curtains need to stack neatly when opened.

Ideally, the curtain rod should extend far enough that the fabric sits beside the door rather than covering part of the opening.

This provides:

• Easier access outdoors.
• More natural light.
• Better views.
• A cleaner appearance.

For larger sliding doors, layered curtains remain an excellent option.

Sheer curtains can stay closed throughout the day while still allowing the doors to feel connected to the garden or outdoor entertaining area.

Measuring Large Feature Windows

Modern Australian homes often include oversized windows designed to maximise natural light.

While these windows create stunning interiors, they also require careful planning.

Large windows benefit from:

• Ceiling-height curtain installation.
• Extra-wide curtain tracks or rods.
• Greater curtain fullness.
• Layered window treatments.

The larger the window, the more important the proportion becomes.

Curtains that are too narrow often make feature windows look surprisingly ordinary.

By allowing generous fabric and extending the curtain rod beyond the window frame, the entire wall becomes a dramatic architectural feature.

Measuring Bay Windows

Bay windows create beautiful architectural interest but can appear challenging at first.

Rather than treating each section separately, consider how the finished curtains will look from across the room.

Depending on the design of the bay window, curtains may be installed:

• Across the entire opening.
• On individual sections.
• Using specially designed bay window tracks.

The best solution depends on the room layout, furniture placement and desired appearance.

If you're uncertain, custom-made curtains often provide the most seamless result for bay windows.

Homeowners looking for tailored solutions can explore additional options at HomeCurtains, where custom window furnishings are designed specifically for unique window shapes.

Choosing the Correct Curtain Length

Length has a significant impact on how expensive curtains appear.

Professional designers generally recommend one of three approaches.

Just Above the Floor (Recommended)

This is the most popular option.

The curtain finishes approximately 1–2 cm above the floor, creating a clean and elegant appearance while allowing the fabric to move freely.

Suitable for:

• Living rooms
• Bedrooms
• Dining rooms
• Home offices

Light Floor Break

Some homeowners prefer the curtain fabric to touch the floor gently.

This softer finish creates a slightly more luxurious look and works particularly well with linen-look fabrics.

Puddled Curtains

The curtain fabric is intentionally pooled on the floor.

While this style creates dramatic visual impact, it's generally better suited to formal rooms and decorative spaces rather than busy family homes.

Because puddled curtains collect dust more easily and require additional maintenance, they're less common in contemporary Australian interiors.

Choosing the Right Curtain Width

Length is only half the equation.

Curtain width determines how full and luxurious the finished curtains appear.

Professional designers rarely install curtains that sit flat against the window.

Instead, they allow sufficient fullness so the fabric forms elegant, even folds.

This creates:

• Greater visual softness.
• Improved balance.
• A higher-quality appearance.
• Better light control when closed.

Even relatively affordable curtains can appear far more premium simply by ensuring adequate fullness.

Measuring for Different Curtain Heading Styles

Different curtain heading styles require slightly different measuring techniques. Understanding how each style hangs will help ensure your curtains achieve the intended look and function beautifully once installed.

Eyelet (Ring/Grommet) Curtains

Eyelet curtains create large, even folds and slide smoothly along a curtain rod using built-in metal rings. They're one of the easiest heading styles to measure and install, making them a popular choice for modern Australian homes.

S-Fold & Wave Fold Curtains

S-Fold and Wave Fold curtains create elegant, continuous waves that glide effortlessly along a curtain track. Because the fullness and wave spacing are predetermined by the track system, accurate width and drop measurements are essential to achieve their signature designer finish.

For the best results, pair these curtains with a quality S-Fold Curtain Track, which is specifically designed to create smooth, uniform folds across the entire window.

Hook Curtains (Pin Hook)

Hook curtains use adjustable curtain hooks attached to heading tape, allowing them to hang neatly from a curtain track. This versatile heading style is ideal for custom-made curtains and offers flexibility to fine-tune the curtain height during installation.

Rod Pocket Curtains

Rod Pocket curtains feature a sewn fabric pocket that slides directly over a curtain rod, concealing the hardware for a clean and relaxed appearance. As the fabric gathers naturally along the rod, it's important to allow adequate width to achieve soft, even folds.

Pencil Pleat Curtains

Pencil Pleat curtains remain one of Australia's most versatile heading styles. Their gathered pleats can be adjusted during installation, making them suitable for curtain tracks and rods alike and complementing contemporary and traditional interiors.

Pinch Pleat Curtains

Pinch Pleat curtains feature permanently stitched pleats that create a structured, tailored appearance. Since the pleats are fixed during manufacturing, precise measurements are particularly important to ensure the finished curtains fit and stack correctly.

Need Help Choosing the Right Heading Style?

Whether you're considering S-Fold, Wave Fold, Hook, Pencil Pleat, Pinch Pleat, Rod Pocket, or Eyelet Curtains, taking accurate measurements is the first step towards a beautifully finished window. For more inspiration, explore Fansee Australia's collection of made-to-order curtains and S-Fold Curtain Tracks, or visit HomeCurtains.com.au for additional window furnishing ideas.

Quick Measuring Checklist

Before ordering your curtains, confirm that you've measured:

✓ Curtain rod position

✓ Rod width

✓ Finished curtain height

✓ Window width

✓ Curtain fullness

✓ Furniture below the window

✓ Window handles or locks

✓ Curtain heading style

✓ Floor clearance

✓ Measurements twice

Spending just a few extra minutes checking every detail helps ensure your curtains fit beautifully the first time.

Keep Planning Your Window Styling

Measuring your curtains correctly is only the beginning. Once you know the right dimensions, the next step is choosing fabrics, colours and styles that suit your home.

Our related guides can help:

• How to Choose the Right Curtains for Every Room
• Sheer Curtains vs Blockout Curtains: Which Should You Choose?
• Curtain Colour Trends Australian Homes Are Loving
• The Ultimate Curtain Buying Guide
• Ready-Made vs Custom Curtains

For a complete room transformation, explore Fansee's collections of Living Room Decor, Bedroom Decor, Handmade Paintings, Wall Hanging Macrame, Cowhide Rugs and Home Décor to create a home that feels cohesive, elegant and unmistakably yours.

Chapter 3 — Expert Measuring Tips, Common Mistakes & When Custom Curtains Are the Better Choice

Once you've measured a few windows, the process becomes surprisingly straightforward. However, the difference between curtains that look "good" and those that look professionally styled often comes down to a handful of small details.

Interior designers don't rely on expensive fabrics alone—they pay close attention to proportion, balance and installation. These finishing touches can completely transform how a room feels.

If you want your curtains to look like they belong in a display home rather than simply covering a window, these expert tips are worth following.

Think Beyond the Window

One of the biggest differences between homeowners and interior designers is where they focus their attention.

Most people measure the window.

Designers measure the wall.

Why?

Because curtains don't just frame glass—they frame the entire room.

By extending curtains beyond the window edges and mounting them higher, the eye naturally sees a much larger architectural feature.

The result is a room that feels:

• Taller
• Brighter
• More spacious
• Better proportioned

This simple shift in thinking is one of the easiest ways to create a premium interior without increasing your decorating budget.

Always Consider the Furniture

Windows rarely exist on their own.

There may be:

• A sofa underneath
• A bed positioned against the wall
• A buffet cabinet
• A dining table
• A study desk
• Indoor plants
• Decorative lighting

These pieces all influence how your curtains should hang.

For example, if a sofa sits directly beneath the window, ensure the curtains fall naturally beside it rather than bunching awkwardly behind the cushions.

Likewise, curtains behind a dining table should have enough clearance to move freely without catching on chairs.

Thinking about the room as a whole—not just the window—results in a cleaner, more practical design.

Let Natural Light Work for You

Natural light changes throughout the day.

Instead of fighting it, use curtains to control and enhance it.

Morning sunlight can make kitchens and dining rooms feel fresh and energising.

Afternoon sun may create excessive heat and glare in living rooms.

Bedrooms often benefit from darker conditions early in the morning.

Understanding how sunlight moves through your home will help you choose not only the right curtain but also the right way to install it.

If your home receives abundant daylight, sheer curtains can soften the light beautifully while maintaining an open, airy atmosphere.

For rooms requiring greater flexibility, layering sheer and blockout curtains allows you to adapt as conditions change.

Think About the View

Some homes overlook beautiful gardens, parks or water views.

Others face neighbouring houses or busy streets.

Your curtains should respond accordingly.

If the view is one of your home's greatest features, sheer curtains allow you to enjoy it while gently filtering natural light.

If privacy is more important, layered curtains provide the freedom to adjust your surroundings without permanently closing the room off.

Great window styling isn't only about looking in—it's also about deciding how you want to experience what's outside.

Common Measuring Mistakes That Are Easy to Avoid

Even a small measuring error can affect the final result.

Fortunately, these mistakes are also the easiest to prevent.

Measuring the Glass Instead of the Finished Curtain Area

Curtains should frame the entire window, not simply cover the glass.

Always measure from where the curtain rod will be installed—not from the edge of the window.

Forgetting About Curtain Fullness

Flat curtains rarely look luxurious.

Allowing enough fabric to create generous folds dramatically improves the finished appearance.

It's one of the defining characteristics of professionally styled interiors.

Buying Curtains That Are Too Short

Short curtains can unintentionally make ceilings feel lower, and windows appear smaller.

Whenever possible, choose floor-length curtains for living rooms, bedrooms, dining rooms and home offices.

Not Measuring Twice

It sounds obvious, yet it's one of the most common mistakes.

Professional installers routinely measure every window at least twice before ordering.

Taking an extra five minutes can prevent weeks of frustration later.

Choosing the Wrong Curtain Style for the Room

A beautiful curtain in the wrong room may never perform as expected.

Instead of choosing purely by appearance, consider:

• Privacy requirements
• Natural light
• Furniture layout
• Daily use
• Room orientation

Function should always support design.

When Ready-Made Curtains Are the Perfect Choice

Ready-made curtains have improved significantly over recent years.

They're now available in a wide range of colours, textures and modern heading styles, making them an excellent solution for many Australian homes.

Ready-made curtains are ideal if:

• Your windows follow standard dimensions.
• You're renovating multiple rooms.
• You'd like a quicker installation.
• You're working within a renovation budget.
• You want a simple styling refresh.

With accurate measurements and thoughtful installation, quality ready-made curtains can look every bit as elegant as more expensive alternatives.

When Custom Curtains Are Worth Considering

Some homes require a more tailored approach.

Custom-made curtains may be the better option when:

• Windows are exceptionally wide or tall.
• You have bay windows or unusual shapes.
• You require a precise fit.
• You're building a new home.
• You're creating a luxury interior where every detail matters.

Custom curtains also allow greater flexibility when selecting fabrics, heading styles and finishes.

If you're exploring made-to-measure options, Fansee Australia offers a wide range of custom curtain solutions designed specifically for Australian homes.

Expert Recommendations from the Fansee Team

If we were helping a customer furnish an entire home, this is the advice we'd give.

✔ Install curtain rods higher than the window whenever possible.

✔ Extend rods beyond the window frame to maximise natural light.

✔ Choose floor-length curtains for a timeless appearance.

✔ Prioritise neutral colours if you plan to update your décor over time.

✔ Layer sheer and blockout curtains in the rooms you use most.

✔ Treat curtains as part of your overall interior—not as a separate purchase.

These small decisions create homes that feel thoughtfully designed and remain stylish for years.

Final Thoughts

Accurate measurements are the foundation of beautiful curtains.

By planning where the curtain rod will sit, allowing generous width, choosing the right length and considering how each room is used, you can achieve results that rival professionally designed interiors.

Whether you choose ready-made curtains or invest in a custom solution, careful measuring ensures your window furnishings enhance both the appearance and functionality of your home.

At Fansee Australia, we believe every detail contributes to creating a home you'll love coming back to. Explore our carefully curated curtain collection and discover window furnishings designed to complement modern Australian living.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Should I measure the window or the curtain rod?

Always measure from the planned curtain rod position rather than the glass itself. This gives you the true finished curtain size.

2. How high should I install a curtain rod?

In most homes, installing the rod approximately 15–30 cm above the window frame creates the appearance of higher ceilings. If ceiling height allows, mounting even closer to the ceiling can create an even more spacious look.

3. Should curtains touch the floor?

Yes. Floor-length curtains provide the most elegant and timeless finish for living rooms, bedrooms, dining rooms and home offices.

4. How wide should curtains be?

Curtains should extend beyond the window frame and include enough fabric to create soft, natural folds rather than hanging flat.

5. Can ready-made curtains look luxurious?

Absolutely. When measured and installed correctly, quality ready-made curtains can achieve a beautifully finished, designer-inspired appearance.

6. When should I choose custom-made curtains?

Custom curtains are ideal for oversized windows, bay windows, unusual layouts or when you want a tailored fit with greater fabric and design options.

7. What's the biggest curtain measuring mistake?

Measuring only the glass instead of the complete curtain area is one of the most common mistakes. Curtains should frame the window, not simply cover it.

8. Should curtain rods be wider than the window?

Yes. Extending the rod beyond the window frame allows more natural light into the room and makes the window appear larger.

9. Are sheer and blockout curtains measured differently?

The measuring principles are generally the same, although layered curtains require planning for two curtain tracks or rods.

10. What if my window has furniture underneath?

Consider how the curtains will hang alongside the furniture. They should fall naturally without bunching or interfering with everyday use.

11. Should I measure before choosing curtain styles?

Yes. Knowing your available space first makes it much easier to choose suitable curtain styles, fabrics and heading options.

12. Where can I find made-to-measure curtains?

For custom-made window furnishings, specialist fabrics and tailored advice, visit HomeCurtains.com.au.