How to measure your windows for curtains

Getting the size right is the single most important step when buying ready-made curtains. Measure twice, with a metal tape measure, and write the numbers down in centimetres.

1. Measure the width

Measure the full length of your pole or track, end to end. If you have not fitted a pole yet, allow it to extend 15–30 cm beyond the window frame on each side so the curtains can open fully and let in more light.

2. Measure the drop

Measure from the pole or track down to where you want the curtain to stop: on the sill, just below it, or to the floor. Floor-length curtains should stop 1–2 cm above the floor.

3. Choose your fullness

For a gathered look, the combined width of your panels is usually about 1.5 to 2 times the width of the pole. On each Sylvra product page, pick the width first, then the drops available for that width. The size finder in our measuring guide does the maths for you.