Custom Curtain Measurement & Heading Guide

Step 1: Measure the Track/Rod Width

Existing Pole (Rod):
Measure only the pole’s width between the decorative end caps or finials. This gives the usable width where the curtains will actually hang.

Existing Track:

No Track/Pole Yet:
Measure your window’s width, then add 15 cm on each side. This extra width allows the curtains to extend past the window when closed and to be drawn open fully without blocking the window. This ensures plenty of light when the curtains are open and helps the curtains cover the window edges for privacy and light control when closed.

(We’ll handle gather/fullness allowances in production.)

Step 2: How to Measure Curtain Height/Drop

Before deciding on the drop of your curtains, we recommend you fit your rod/poles and tracks.

Decide Curtain Drop:

• Floor –
  Typically finishes just at or slightly above the floor. For a crisp, tailored appearance, we suggest having the hem just graze the floor or sit about 1 to 1.5 cm above the floor. This slight clearance prevents dragging or dirt accumulation while maintaining a floor-length look.
• To Sill –
  Ends just above the windowsill. This length is often used for kitchen or bathroom windows.
• Below Sill –
  Extends 15–20 cm below.
• Pooled –
  Extra length so fabric “puddles” on the floor. This can range from 2–3 cm extra, up to a dramatic puddle of 15cm or more of fabric on the floor. Puddled curtains impart a luxurious, romantic look. Keep in mind, however, that puddling is mainly decorative – if the curtains will be opened and closed frequently or the area is high-traffic (or you have pets), a long puddle is not practical​, as the hems can get dirty or wear out faster.

Once you know the desired drop, you can take the height measurement. Always measure from the top of where the curtain will hang down to where you want the hem to finish.

Depending on your curtain heading and hardware, the starting point will differ:

• If using a curtain track/rail :
  Start at the top of the track.

• If using a curtain rod/pole with rings:
  Start at the small ring eye (where hook attaches). In other words, start at the point where the curtain will actually begin hanging, which is a bit below the pole for ringed curtains. This ensures the curtain’s top will sit at the right height when hooked onto the rings.

• For Eyelet curtains :
  Start at the top of the 25mm rod/pole (please note we are unable to manufacture for a 38mm pole at this stage).

No Track/Pole Yet:

• First, decide how high you want it above the window – typically, about 15–20 cm above the frame for a balanced look, but mounting closer to the ceiling can make the room feel taller.
• Next, decide whether your curtains will finish at the sill, floor, or be pooled.
• Finally, measure from that planned rod or track position down to your chosen hemline; this ensures an accurate drop measurement even before your hardware is in place.

(We add standard allowances for headings and hems. )

Step 3: Decide on Curtain Heading Style

Different curtain heading styles affect the look of your curtains, how the fabric hangs and how much fullness/gather is needed. Fullness/Gather is how much extra fabric is used relative to the track width to create folds. More gather gives fuller curtains; less gather makes them flatter.

3-String Pencil Pleat

• Look: Classic, small “pencil-like” pleats formed by drawcords.
• Fullness/Gather: ~2x track width.
• Vibe: Very versatile, works in casual or traditional interiors.

Double-Pinch Pleat

• Look: Two folds pinched per pleat, creating uniform, more structured folds.
• Fullness/Gather: ~2.4x track width.
• Vibe: More formal than single pinch, suits many decor styles.

Triple-Pinch Pleat (French Pleat)

• Look: Three folds per pleat, deeply luxurious and highly structured.
• Fullness/Gather: ~2.6x track width.
• Vibe: Traditional, elegant, and great for statement pieces.

Wave Heading

• Look: Gentle, continuous waves, achieved via special wave tracks.
• Fullness/Gather: ~2.4x track width.
• Vibe: Modern, streamlined, ideal for contemporary spaces or large windows.

Eyelet

• Look: Individually pressed metal rings at the top, rod slides through. Folds in smooth arcs.
• Fullness/Gather: ~2.1x track width.
• Vibe: Casual-contemporary; easy to operate.