How to measure for curtains
Measure your window once, then buy the panel length and width you actually need — including the rod overhang and fullness math.
Buying curtains fails when you guess. Three numbers matter: window width, rod length, and panel drop (rod to hem). Get those right and you can shop by the panel instead of buying a pair you don't need.
Measure the window width
Measure the window opening left to right (glass or casing — pick one and stay consistent). Write the number in inches.
You usually hang the rod wider than the glass so panels stack off the glass when open. A practical default: add about 5″ on each side (10″ total). That extended span is your rod width.
Decide panel length (drop)
Panel length is the distance from the top of the rod down to where you want the hem — not floor-to-ceiling unless that's your look.
Common targets:
- Sill / apron — short, café, or kitchen windows
- Floor-kiss — hem just above the floor
- Slight break / puddle — longer than floor; only if you want the drape
If you already know you want 84″ or 95″ panels, measure to confirm that length actually reaches your preferred hem line from where the rod will sit.
Account for fullness
Fabric needs gather. A common rule: buy about 1.5× to 2.5× the rod width in total fabric width, then divide by each panel's width to see how many panels you need.
Pair-only retailers force twos. We sell by the panel, so three panels for a wide window is fine — and one panel for a sidelight is fine too.
Skip the spreadsheet
Find My Fit asks for window width, desired panel length, and light preference, then shows only panels we hold enough of to cover that window. Same math, fewer mistakes.
When you're ready, open Find My Fit and shop the sized results — or browse standard and floor-length panels directly.