When it comes to elevating your space with curtains, getting the right size is half the magic. Whether you’re going for regal drama with floor-to-ceiling drapes or a crisp minimalist look with sheer panels, the perfect curtain size ensures everything looks intentional, balanced, and high-end.
At Ceejayinteriors, we understand that selecting curtains isn’t just about picking pretty fabric—precision is key. This guide will walk you through how to measure like a pro, avoid common mistakes, and choose the ideal size for your curtains every time.
Why Curtain Measurements Matter
Many homeowners buy curtains based on guesswork or eyeball measurements—only to discover they’re too short, too wide, or don’t hang correctly. Poorly sized curtains can make your room look awkward or unfinished, no matter how beautiful the design.
Correct measurements create harmony between window and wall, light and shadow, and form and function. The right length and width enhance your home’s look, regulate sunlight, and even improve energy efficiency.
So let’s get into the details of mastering the art of curtain measurements.
Step 1: Understand the Three Key Curtain Measurements
There are three primary dimensions you need to get right:
- Width
- Length (or Drop)
- Mounting height
Let’s break them down.
1. Measuring Curtain Width
Your curtain’s width depends on two things:
- The width of your window (or the area you want the curtain to cover)
- How full or gathered you want the curtains to appear when closed
General Rule of Thumb:
The total curtain width should be 1.5 to 3 times the width of your window. This creates beautiful, soft folds rather than flat sheets.
How to Measure:
- Measure the width of your window or curtain pole (not the window glass).
- Multiply that width by your desired fullness level:
- 1.5x for a tailored, flat look
- 2x for moderate fullness
- 2.5–3x for a luxurious, gathered finish
Tip from Ceejayinteriors: Always round up your measurements to the nearest even number for a more symmetrical curtain layout.
2. Measuring Curtain Length (Drop)
This refers to how long the curtain will hang. The length you choose affects the mood, style, and visual proportion of the room.
There are three common drop styles:
- Sill Length – Curtains end just above the window sill
- Apron Length – Curtains end 10–15 cm below the sill
- Floor Length – Curtains touch or hover just above the floor
- Puddle Length – Curtains gather slightly on the floor for an elegant, romantic look
How to Measure:
- Use a metal tape measure for accuracy
- Measure from the curtain rod (or intended rod position) down to the desired length
- Decide if you want your curtain to hang from the top of the rod or with rings/clips (add extra length if using rings)
Pro Tip from Ceejayinteriors: For the modern Nigerian home, we recommend full-length curtains that hover just 1–2 cm above the floor. It’s chic, easy to maintain, and gives the room an elongated look.
3. Determine Your Mounting Height
Should your curtain rod go just above the window, midway to the ceiling, or ceiling-high?
Mounting your curtains closer to the ceiling draws the eye upward and makes your room feel taller and grander.
How to Measure:
- Ideally, the rod should be mounted 10–20 cm above the window frame
- For dramatic effect, especially in rooms with high ceilings, install the rod as close to the ceiling as possible
Want a custom-curtain consultation to help you decide what works best in your space? Book a Free Virtual Session with Ceejayinteriors
Step 2: Consider Curtain Styles & How They Affect Measurements
Different curtain styles require slightly adjusted measurements. Let’s go over a few common ones:
1. Eyelet Curtains
- Requires a longer drop because the eyelets are at the top of the fabric
- Your measurement should start from the top of the rod
2. Pencil Pleats
- Slightly more flexible with width due to adjustable gathering
- Allow for extra fullness when calculating width
3. Tab-Top or Tie-Top Curtains
- Measurement begins at the top of the tabs or ties
- Tabs can reduce drop height slightly, so adjust accordingly
Not sure which style suits your home best? Explore our collection of curtain styles at Ceejayinteriors Curtain Gallery
Step 3: Don’t Forget the Extras
Curtain Rod Width
- Extend your curtain rod 15–30 cm beyond the window on each side. This allows the curtains to sit off the window when open, maximizing natural light.
Floor Clearance
- Want a crisp, clean look? Leave a 1–2 cm clearance between curtain hem and floor.
- Want drama? Add 5–10 cm for puddling.
Curtain Accessories
- Tiebacks, pelmets, valances, and rods all impact how the curtain falls
- Measure these into your planning stage
Explore our stunning curtain accessories collection to complement your setup. Shop Now on Ceejayinteriors
Common Curtain Measuring Mistakes to Avoid
- Measuring only the glass width instead of the entire frame or rod
- Forgetting to adjust for curtain header styles
- Not accounting for floor leveling issues in older homes
- Buying standard sizes for non-standard windows
At Ceejayinteriors, we offer custom curtain sizing and fitting services across Nigeria to ensure perfect installation every time. Save yourself the stress—let our professionals handle your measurements with precision.
Need help with measurements? Contact us for a free in-home assessment or virtual consultation. Our nationwide service makes it easy, no matter where you are in Nigeria.
Final Checklist: The Ceejayinteriors Measuring Matrix
Before ordering your curtains, make sure you have:
- Window width
- Desired fullness ratio (1.5x, 2x, or more)
- Chosen curtain style (eyelet, pencil pleat, etc.)
- Preferred curtain length (sill, apron, floor, puddle)
- Mounting height
- Room theme and color coordination
Ready to transform your space with perfectly measured curtains? Visit Ceejayinteriors.com to browse our premium curtain fabrics, rods, and accessories—or get in touch for expert assistance.
Conclusion: Let the Curtains Speak Your Style
Choosing curtains isn’t just a decorative decision—it’s a strategic investment in your home’s comfort, light control, and elegance. By mastering your measurements, you take control of how your interiors feel and function.
But you don’t have to go it alone. Whether you’re working on a new home, rental, or redesign, Ceejayinteriors is your trusted partner for custom curtain design, expert fittings, and quality accessories—delivered across Nigeria.
Let your windows do the talking. Browse, measure, and buy with confidence at Ceejayinteriors today.
