How to Customize Your Curtains

Get curtains made exactly to your specifications. Follow our step-by-step guide to measure, customize, and order window treatments that fit perfectly in your space.


Step 1: Measure Your Windows

Accurate measurements are crucial for custom curtains. Please note:

  • Measure twice, order once: Double-check all measurements before ordering
  • Use a metal tape measure: Fabric tape measures can stretch and give inaccurate readings
  • Measure in inches or centimeters: Be consistent with your units
  • Round down: If between measurements, always round down to the nearest 1/4 inch
  • Custom orders are final sale: Custom-made curtains cannot be returned unless defective

What You'll Need:

  • Metal tape measure (at least 25 feet/8 meters)
  • Step ladder or stool (for high windows)
  • Pencil and paper to record measurements
  • Helper (recommended for large windows)

How to Measure Width:

For Inside Mount (curtains inside window frame):

  1. Measure the width of the window opening at the top, middle, and bottom
  2. Use the narrowest measurement
  3. Do NOT add extra width — we'll account for proper fit
  4. Record this as your "finished width"

For Outside Mount (curtains outside window frame):

  1. Measure the width of the area you want to cover
  2. Add 4–8 inches (10–20 cm) on each side for better light blocking and privacy
  3. Typical overhang: 8–16 inches (20–40 cm) total width beyond window frame
  4. Record this as your "finished width"

How to Measure Length:

  • Sill Length: Measure from rod to window sill, subtract 1/2 inch (1 cm)
  • Apron Length: Measure from rod to bottom of window apron (trim), add 2–3 inches (5–8 cm)
  • Floor Length: Measure from rod to floor, subtract 1/2 inch (1 cm) for clearance
  • Puddle Length: Measure from rod to floor, add 2–6 inches (5–15 cm) for fabric pooling

Measuring Tips by Window Type:

Window Type Measurement Tips
Standard Window Measure width and length as described above
Bay Window Measure each section separately, order individual panels
French Doors Measure door glass area, add 2–4 inches on each side
Sliding Doors Measure entire door width, add 6–12 inches each side
Arched Window Measure rectangular portion only, contact us for arch solutions

Step 2: Choose Your Customization Options

  • Custom Size — Width: 20" – 120" (50–305 cm)  |  Length: 24" – 120" (60–305 cm)
  • Fabric & Color: Linen, Velvet, Cotton, Polyester blends — 25+ colors available
  • Light Control: Sheer, Semi-Sheer, Light Filtering, Room Darkening, 100% Blackout
  • Header Style: Grommet, Rod Pocket, Tab Top, Back Tab, Pinch Pleat
  • Lining Options: No Lining, Standard Lining, Thermal Lining, Blackout Lining
  • Hem Style: Standard Hem, Weighted Hem, Decorative Trim

Step 3: Place Your Custom Order

  1. Select Product: Choose the curtain style you want to customize
  2. Choose Options: Select fabric, color, and header style from dropdown menus
  3. Enter Measurements: Input your custom width and length in the size fields
  4. Select Quantity: Choose number of panels needed (typically 2 panels per window)
  5. Add to Cart: Review all selections before adding to cart
  6. Checkout: Complete payment — custom orders are charged in full upfront
  7. Production: Your curtains will be made within 7–14 business days
  8. Shipping: Standard shipping time applies (7–15 business days)

How Many Panels Do I Need?

Window Width Recommended Panels Notes
Up to 48" (122 cm) 2 panels Standard for most windows
48" – 96" (122–244 cm) 2–4 panels 2 for minimal fullness, 4 for luxurious look
96" – 144" (244–366 cm) 4–6 panels Large windows or sliding doors
Over 144" (366 cm) 6+ panels Contact us for recommendations

Custom Order Timeline

  • Order Confirmation: Immediate (within minutes)
  • Production Time: 7–14 business days
  • Quality Inspection: 1–2 business days
  • Shipping Time: 7–15 business days (depending on location)
  • Total Time: 15–31 business days from order to delivery

Business days = Monday–Friday, excluding weekends and holidays


Customization Tips & Best Practices

DO:

  • Measure multiple times for accuracy
  • Order fabric samples if unsure about color
  • Consider fullness — order 1.5–2x window width for gathered look
  • Account for rod placement above window
  • Check ceiling height for floor-length curtains
  • Order all panels for a room at once for color consistency

DON'T:

  • Guess measurements — always measure
  • Order without considering rod type and placement
  • Forget to account for pattern repeats (if applicable)
  • Order curtains too short — they can't be lengthened
  • Mix different dye lots — order all panels together

Fullness Guide

Fullness refers to how much fabric is used relative to the window width. More fullness creates a more luxurious, gathered appearance.

Fullness Ratio Description Best For
1:1 Flat, minimal gathering Modern, minimalist spaces
1.5:1 Light gathering, some folds Casual, everyday look
2:1 Full, luxurious gathering Traditional, elegant spaces (recommended)
2.5:1 or more Very full, dramatic folds Formal, luxury interiors

Example: For a 60" wide window with 2:1 fullness, order curtains with a total width of 120" (two 60" panels or four 30" panels).


Frequently Asked Questions

Can I return custom-made curtains?
Custom-made curtains are final sale and cannot be returned unless they are defective or we made an error in production. Please double-check all measurements and selections before ordering.

What if I make a mistake with my measurements?
Unfortunately, we cannot accept returns for incorrect measurements provided by the customer. We recommend measuring multiple times. We're happy to answer questions before you order.

Can I order fabric samples?
Yes! We offer fabric samples. Contact us at info@curtainuk.com to request samples.

How accurate do my measurements need to be?
Measurements should be accurate to within 1/4 inch (0.5 cm). We cut and sew to your exact specifications, so precision is important.

What's the maximum size you can make?
Maximum width: 120" (305 cm) per panel. Maximum length: 120" (305 cm). For larger sizes, contact us to discuss options.

Can I cancel or modify a custom order?
Custom orders can only be cancelled within 24 hours of placement, before production begins. After production starts, orders cannot be cancelled or modified. Contact us immediately if you need to make changes.

Do colors look the same as on my screen?
Screen colors may vary from actual fabric due to monitor settings and lighting. We recommend ordering fabric samples to see true colors before placing a large custom order.


Need Help with Customization?

Have questions about measurements, fabric selection, or customization options? Contact us before ordering — we're happy to help ensure you get exactly what you need!

Email: info@curtainuk.com
Tel: +86-15036416809
Company: HONG KONG CTSJ LIMITED
Office: Room D07, 8/F, Kai Tak Factory Building Phase II, 99 King Fook Street, San Po Kong, Hong Kong
Website: curtainuk.com
Customer service hours: MON to SUN: 10:00AM - 6:00PM (GMT+8).
We respond to all inquiries within 12–48 business hours.

Every custom curtain is made to order with attention to detail and quality craftsmanship.
Take your time with measurements, choose your options carefully, and we'll create beautiful custom curtains just for you.

Last Updated: January 2026

Drapery Measuring Instruction

Simplify your curtain measuring process with our Measurement Finder, designed to guide you effortlessly through each step for a smooth, hassle-free experience. For a more in-depth, professional measurement, we’ve also prepared a detailed guide for you below.

01

Curtain Rod Measurement Guide

Installed Curtain Rod

  • Measure the length of the existing curtain rod directly

Uninstalled Curtain Rod

  • Determine installation position:
  • Select mounting height:
02

Curtain Fullness Guide

Preventing Flat Appearance

  • Use 200-250% fabric fullness to create natural pleats
  • Ensures rich, luxurious curtain drapery effect

Fullness Recommendations

  • Pinch Pleat: 2x fullness (200% of window width)
  • Triple Pleat: 2.3x - 2.5x fullness (230%-250% of window width)

Width Selection Note

  • No need for additional width calculations
  • Simply select your desired finished width
01

Curtain Rod Measurement Guide

Installed Curtain Rod

  • Measure the length of the existing curtain rod directly

Uninstalled Curtain Rod

  • Determine installation position:
  • Select mounting height:
02

Curtain Fullness Guide

Preventing Flat Appearance

  • Use 200-250% fabric fullness to create natural pleats
  • Ensures rich, luxurious curtain drapery effect

Fullness Recommendations

  • Pinch Pleat: 2x fullness (200% of window width)
  • Triple Pleat: 2.3x - 2.5x fullness (230%-250% of window width)

Width Selection Note

  • No need for additional width calculations
  • Simply select your desired finished width

For Pleat Heading Style

For Soft Top Heading Style

For Grommet Heading Style

For Ripple Fold Drapery

Finding The Perfect Fit

Shades Measuring Instruction

Before you focus on how to measure windows for blinds or shades, you must decide which type of mounting is right for you.

Inside Mount Your Window Treatments When:

Window Treatment Considerations

Inside Mount Requirements

  • Enough window depth for inside mount

Aesthetic Objectives

  • To get a sleek and minimalist aesthetic for your space
  • The window trim is visually appealing and should be highlighted rather than concealed
  • Prefer window treatments that blend seamlessly with the wall without protruding

Structural Conditions

  • The windows have sturdy frames capable of supporting the mounting hardware
  • The house is relatively new, with well-shaped rectangular windows

Outside Mount Limitations

  • The window sill extends outward, complicating the use of an outside mount

Outside Mount Your Window Treatments When:

Window Treatment Specifications

Inside Mount Limitations

  • The window depth is not enough, also is irregularly shaped, unsuitable for an inside mount
  • The window frame is too fragile or shallow to support an inside mount

Design Objectives

  • The objective is to cover unattractive window trim and refresh the window's appearance
  • The goal is to create the impression of taller, larger windows

Functional Requirements

  • Maximum light-blocking capability is required when the shades are drawn
  • Privacy is a primary concern, and the shades need to block external view when closed

Visual Adjustment

  • When rolled up, the window treatment should be as unobtrusive as possible

Measure the Window for Inside Mount

Window Measurement Guidelines

Depth Measurement

  • Measure inside casing depth at the top
  • Determines suitability for inside/flush mount
  • Note: Required depth varies by shade type

Width Measurement

  • Measure at three positions:
  • Round down to nearest 1/8 inch

Length Measurement

  • Measure at three positions:
  • Round up to nearest 1/8 inch
  • Use largest measurement as final length

Note on Deduction

Measure the Window for Outside Mount

Window Measurement Guidelines

Check Space

  • Measure height above window for:

Width Measurement

  • Measure window's outer frame width
  • Add 2-4 inches total (if space allows) to:

Length Measurement

  • Measure window's outer frame height
  • Recommended installation: