How to Measure for Window Treatments
For best results, use a steel tape measure.
Draperies:
Widths: Measure from the outside edge of the casing to the outside edge of the casing. Note the amount of wall space on each side of the window. For standard draperies, add 3” to the width you measured, which will give you 1-1/2” out on each side of the window. This will also be your rod size.
If you have wall space available and want your draperies to clear the glass when opened, take your width measurement and multiply by 1.5. Round-up to the nearest whole inch. This will also be your rod size.
If you are using a decorative rod, you will need sufficient clearance on both sides of the window to accommodate the finials.
“Side Panels” are decorative, non-closing drapery. One width of fabric pleats up to approximately 16” plus a 3-1/2” leading edge and a 3-1/2” return. You may position one width side panels 1-1/2” out from the edges of your windows or extend them beyond the casings up to 8” each side. For fuller side panels, order 1-1/2 widths per panel, which will pleat up to approximately 24”, plus a 3-1/2” leading edge and a 3-1/2” return.
Lengths: For floor length draperies, measure from the top of the window casing to 1/2" above the floor or carpet. We recommend you add at least 2” to this length so drapery will hang above the casing.
Short curtains are usually 2” above the top casing to 2” below the window apron (the lowest part of the window).
Always check to be sure you have sufficient wall space above the window. If you are using a decorative rod and rings, you will need additional space to accommodate the hardware above the height of the drapery.
What is “Puddling?”
Decorative side panels, and sometimes closing draperies, are occasionally made “extra long” so the bottom hem “puddles” on the floor rather than clear the floor. This style of drapery will require some additional fussing during installation and routine maintenance. The extra length is visually pleasing and creates a rich, luxurious look. If you would like your panels to “puddle”, please add this extra amount into your finished length. For guidelines: measure from the top of the window casing to the floor (do not deduct 1/2"). Add at least 2” to this length so drapery will hang above the casing. Then add:
1” extra – panels will hit floor and “break”
2” - 4” extra – moderate “puddle” effect
6” - 8” extra – generous “puddle” effect
Return Sizes: The “return” is the outermost edge of the drapery that extends from the last pleat to the wall. Standard returns on draperies are 3-1/2”, which will accommodate most undressed windows, or most windows with inside mounted blinds or shades. If a larger return is needed, you must specify size on order blank.
Valances and Cornices:
Widths: Measure from the outside edge of the casing to the outside edge of the casing. Note the amount of wall space on each side of the window. Add 3” to the width you measured for your final width. Valances and cornices are mounted on 3” boards, which will accommodate most undressed windows or most windows with inside mounted blinds or shades.
If the valance or cornice is to be installed over another treatment (for example: side panels or draperies), add 3” to the width of the underlying treatment for the width of the top treatment and specify 6” board on the order blank.
Lengths: Lengths of top treatments are listed in the product descriptions.
Inside Mount Installation: Recessed window openings with a minimum unobstructed depth of 2” will accommodate inside mounted valances. To measure for inside mount, measure from the inside edge to the inside edge. You must specify “Inside Mount” and “No Returns” on your order blank. Inside mount valances will be mounted on 1-1/2” boards.
Swag and Jabots Option: Jabots may be ordered up to 36” long. You may order asymmetrical jabots (one side shorter than the other) by indicating Left Jabot Length and Right Jabot Length on the order blank.
Roman Shades:
Widths: For Outside Mount romans, measure from the outside edge of the casing to the outside edge of the casing. Add 2” for your finished width.
For Inside Mount Romans, measure from the inside edge to the inside edge at the top, middle and bottom of the window. Use the smallest measurement as your finished width. Your window must have a minimum depth of 2-1/2” for an inside mount shade.
Lengths: For Outside Mount Romans, measure from the top of the window casing to the bottom of the window apron (the lowest part of the window). Add 3-1/2” for your finished length. When installed, the top of the shade will be 2-1/4” above the casing and hang approximately 1” below the apron.
For Inside Mount Romans, measure from the inside top of the window to the top of the window sill (the flat surface at the bottom of the window). We suggest you measure the length at the left, middle and right sides of the window. If any of the measures vary 1/4” or more, your window is not square and the shade will not hang properly. Order outside mount instead.
