How to Measure for Your Curtains

Before You Measure

You will need:

• A metal tape measure
• A pencil and paper, or your phone
• A step ladder where required
• Your chosen curtain heading style

Important: measure the installed curtain rod or track—not only the glass or window frame. Always record the width first, followed by the drop.

Step 1: Choose Your Curtain Heading

The correct measuring point depends on how your curtains will be installed.

Curtain Rod

This option is designed for curtains installed on a decorative curtain rod. Measure the usable rod width between the inner edges of the finials or end caps. The exact drop starting point depends on the chosen rod heading and hardware.

S-Fold Curtains

S-fold curtains run along a curtain track and create smooth, continuous waves. Lumarni S-fold curtains use curtain hooks to connect the curtain heading to the runners or gliders in the track. Measure the full usable track width and measure the drop from the bottom of the runner or glider.

Double Pinch Pleat Curtains

Double pinch pleat curtains have a tailored, structured finish. They can be installed on a compatible track or on a curtain rod with rings. Measure the full usable track or rod width, then measure the drop from the curtain's hanging point.

Step 2: How to Measure Curtain Width

For a Standard Curtain Track

1. Measure from the centre of the end stop on one side to the centre of the end stop on the other side.
2. Record this measurement as your track width.

For a Decorative Curtain Rod

1. Measure the usable rod width between the inner bases of the two finials or end caps.
2. Do not include the decorative finials in your measurement.
3. Record this measurement as your rod width.

For S-Fold Curtains

1. Measure the full usable width of the installed track.
2. Measure from end stop to end stop, following the track rather than the window glass.
3. Enter the actual track width when ordering. Lumarni will allow for the required curtain fullness.

For Double Pinch Pleat Curtains

1. For a track, measure the full usable track width from end stop to end stop.
2. For a rod with rings, measure the usable rod width between the finials.
3. Enter the actual track or rod width. Do not double the measurement unless the product page specifically asks for fabric width.

Step 3: How to Measure Curtain Drop

Where to Start Measuring

• Curtain rod: measure from the hanging point specified for your selected heading and hardware.
• S-fold: Lumarni S-fold curtains are installed with hooks. Measure from the bottom of the track runner or glider where the curtain hook is attached.
• Double pinch pleat on a track: measure from the bottom of the runner or glider.
• Double pinch pleat on a rod: measure from the curtain hook position on the ring.

Floor-Length Curtains

1. Measure from the correct hanging point down to the floor.
2. Take the measurement at the left, centre and right because floors are not always perfectly level.
3. Use the shortest measurement to reduce the risk of the curtain touching the floor.
4. For a neat finish above the floor, subtract approximately 2 cm from the measured drop.

Example: measured drop 250 cm − 2 cm clearance = order drop 248 cm.

Below-Sill Curtains

1. Measure from the correct hanging point to the bottom of the window sill.
2. Add approximately 15–20 cm, or choose your preferred finishing point below the sill.
3. Check that the curtain will not interfere with furniture, heaters, power points or other fittings.

Example: measured drop to sill 150 cm + 15 cm below the sill = order drop 165 cm.

Optional Puddled Finish

For a soft, luxurious puddled look, add extra length to the floor measurement. This style looks beautiful but requires more maintenance and may not suit homes with pets, children or high-traffic areas.

How to Measure Double Curtains

For a combination of sheer and blockout curtains, measure both tracks separately. Front and rear tracks can have slightly different usable widths and drops.

1. Measure the usable width of the front track.
2. Measure the usable width of the rear track.
3. Measure the drop from each track's runner to the preferred finishing point.
4. Record which measurement belongs to the sheer curtain and which belongs to the blockout curtain.

Final Measurement Checklist

• I selected the correct heading: curtain rod, S-fold or double pinch pleat.
• I measured the actual usable rod or track width.
• I measured from the correct drop starting point.
• I checked the drop on the left, centre and right.
• I recorded all measurements in centimetres.
• I wrote the width before the drop.
• I checked for skirting boards, furniture, heaters and other obstacles.
• I reviewed my measurements before placing the order.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I measure the window or the curtain track?

If your rod or track is already installed, measure its usable width. Do not measure only the glass or window frame.

Do I need to double the width for curtain fullness?

No. For Lumarni made-to-measure curtains, enter the actual usable rod or track width unless the product page states otherwise. The required fullness is calculated according to the selected curtain style.

How far above the floor should curtains finish?

A clearance of approximately 2 cm gives a clean, practical finish. You can choose a different length if you prefer curtains that touch or puddle on the floor.

Can I use the same measurements for sheer and blockout curtains?

Not always. For a double-track system, measure each track separately because the widths and hanging heights may differ.

What if I am unsure about my measurements?

Please contact Lumarni before ordering. We are an Australia-based company, and our local team will respond within 48 hours on business days. Messages received on weekends or public holidays will be answered from the next business day.