Correct drapery sizing starts with the hardware, header style, and the exact width definition used by the product configurator. Measure with a steel tape, record dimensions in inches, and confirm whether the product is sold per panel before ordering.
Important: Many Diycurtain pleated products are sold per panel and ask for the finished width of one panel after pleats are sewn and fully extended. When a product uses that field, do not multiply the finished width by a fullness factor again.
Before You Measure
- Install or finalize the rod or track position whenever possible.
- Choose the header style before measuring length.
- Confirm whether the product is sold per panel or as a pair.
- Read the width-field label to determine whether it asks for finished panel width or flat fabric width.
- Measure to the nearest 1/8 inch and check every number twice.
Step 1: Measure the Usable Rod or Track Span
Measure the area where the curtains will actually hang:
- Decorative rod: measure between the inside edges of the finials. Do not include the decorative finials in the usable span.
- Track or traverse rod: measure the usable carrier or end-stop span.
- Returns or center overlap: add these only when the selected product or hardware instructions specifically require them.
Tap or click the diagram to view it at full size.
Step 2: Determine the Width to Order
For Finished Pleated Panel Width
If the product field says “Single Panel Width when Pleats Sewn and Fully Extended”, the pleat fullness is already built into the finished panel construction.
Formula: total finished coverage ÷ number of panels = finished width per panel.
Example: A 100-inch usable span with two equal finished pleated panels generally requires 50 inches of finished width per panel, before any product-specific return or overlap allowance.
Tap or click the diagram to view it at full size.
For Flat or Unpleated Panel Width
Only apply a fullness multiplier when the selected product explicitly asks for flat fabric or unpleated panel width. Use the fullness recommendation stated for that exact header and fabric. Do not transfer a fullness rule from one product type to another.
Step 3: Measure the Curtain Length
The correct starting point depends on the selected header and hardware:
- Pinch pleat on rings: measure from the ring eye or hook attachment point.
- Track or traverse rod: measure from the carrier or hook attachment point.
- Grommet: follow the product's stated allowance for the fabric that sits above the rod.
- Rod pocket or back tab: use the top reference point specified on the selected product page.
Tap or click the diagram to view it at full size.
Choose the Finished Endpoint
- Sill length: ends at the sill.
- Apron length: ends below the sill or apron at the selected position.
- Floor length: typically finishes slightly above the floor; use the exact clearance you prefer.
- Puddle: includes additional fabric resting on the floor and requires a deliberate extra-length allowance.
Check radiators, baseboard heaters, furniture, vents, deep trim, and uneven floors before finalizing length. For a wide opening, measure the floor clearance at more than one point.
Step 4: Choose the Panel Count
- Two panels are common for a centered opening.
- One panel may suit a door or one-way opening.
- Four panels may be used on extra-wide spans when supported by the hardware and design.
- Divide the required total finished coverage by the number of equal panels only after confirming how the product defines width.
Final Drapery Checklist
- Rod or track position confirmed
- Decorative finials excluded from usable width
- Header style selected before measuring length
- Product width definition read carefully
- Sold-per-panel quantity confirmed
- Return or overlap allowance checked
- Floor clearance checked in more than one place
- All measurements verified to the nearest 1/8 inch
Need help? Email a photo of your rod or track, your selected header style, panel count, and measurements to info@diycurtain.com before ordering.
