How do I measure curtains for special window types (bay windows, corner windows, French windows, etc.)?
Bay windows – Measure each individual section separately (left, center, right). Add extra allowance for overlap where panels meet.
Corner windows – Measure each side from the corner to the rod/track end. Ensure there is enough clearance for curtain movement.
French windows / patio doors – Measure the full width of the frame and extend beyond both sides (15–20 cm) for maximum coverage.
Tall or floor-to-ceiling windows – Measure from the top of the rod/track to the desired floor length. Consider adding extra fabric for a puddle effect.
Irregular shapes (arched, angled, etc.) – Take the widest and tallest points as your reference. Custom solutions or professional consultation may be required.
For pinch pleat, tailor pleat, goblet pleat, pinch pleat with back tab, and inverted box pleat, 2x fabric fullness in default to create pleats and folds;
For pencil pleat, 2.2x fabric fullness;
For triple pleat and triple tailor pleat, 2.3x fabric fullness.
And panel width is from the left pleat to the right pleat, return not included.
Double-width curtains are created by combining two fabric widths to cover larger windows. This results in a seam where the fabrics are joined, known as a splice-up. It's necessary because standard fabric rolls aren't wide enough to achieve the full width without this seam, ensuring the curtains fit larger windows seamlessly.
For pinch pleat, tailor pleat, inverted box pleat and goblet, if the curtain finished length is over 108 inches, then the max finished curtain width without seam is 56 inches; if the curtain length is less than 108 inches, no seam for any curtain finished width. Otherwise, the width needs to be double-wide with a vertical seam.
For triple pleat and triple tailor pleat, if the curtain finished length is over 108 inches, then the max finished curtain width without seam is 50 inches; if the curtain length is less than 108 inches, no seam for any curtain finished width. Otherwise, the width needs to be double-wide with a vertical seam.
What do “Overlap” and “Return” mean when measuring curtains?
Overlap – The extra width where two curtain panels meet in the center. It ensures no gap when the curtains are closed. Recommended allowance: 5–10 cm (2–4").
Return – The part of the curtain that wraps back to the wall at each end, covering the bracket and blocking side light. Recommended allowance: 8–12 cm (3–5") on each side.
👉 Both overlap and return are important to achieve a polished look, improve light control, and maximize privacy.
Vendor:Uscurtains
Vendor:Uscurtains
Vendor:Uscurtains
Vendor:Uscurtains
