Curtains play a crucial role in home decor, offering both functional and aesthetic benefits. They can enhance the overall look of a room while providing privacy and controlling light.
Choosing the right size curtains is essential to achieve a balanced and harmonious appearance. In this guide, we’ll explore the standard curtain sizes available in the UK and provide tips on how to measure and select the perfect curtains for your home.
Understanding Curtain Sizes
Curtains come in a variety of sizes, which can be broadly categorised into ready-made and custom-made options. Ready-made curtains are available in standard sizes and are a convenient and cost-effective choice for many homeowners. Custom-made curtains, on the other hand, offer the flexibility to tailor the dimensions to fit your specific window requirements.
Ready-Made Curtain Sizes
Ready-made curtains in the UK typically come in a range of standard sizes, making it easier to find a suitable option for most windows. The sizes usually refer to the width and drop (length) of the curtains. The width is measured across the fabric when it is fully extended, while the drop is the length from the top of the curtain to the bottom hem.
Common Widths
Ready-made curtains are commonly available in the following widths:
- 46 inches (117 cm): Suitable for small windows or paired with other curtains for larger windows.
- 66 inches (168 cm): Ideal for medium-sized windows, providing ample coverage.
- 90 inches (229 cm): Perfect for large windows or patio doors, offering extensive coverage.
Common Drops
The standard drops for ready-made curtains include:
- 54 inches (137 cm): Appropriate for shorter windows or when a minimal drop is desired.
- 72 inches (183 cm): A versatile length that fits most standard windows.
- 90 inches (229 cm): Ideal for tall windows or when a floor-length look is preferred.
Custom-Made Curtain Sizes
If your windows do not conform to standard sizes or if you have specific design preferences, custom-made curtains offer a tailored solution. With custom-made curtains, you can specify the exact width and drop to suit your needs. This option is particularly beneficial for uniquely shaped windows, bay windows, or when a precise fit is required.
Measuring for Curtains
Accurate measurements are crucial to ensuring your curtains fit perfectly and look their best. Follow these steps to measure your windows correctly:
Step 1: Measure the Width
Measure the width of your curtain track or pole, not the window itself. For the best results, the track or pole should extend 15-20 cm beyond the window on either side. This allows the curtains to fully cover the window when closed and creates the illusion of a larger window when open.
Step 2: Measure the Drop
The drop can be measured in different ways, depending on your preference for how the curtains hang. The common styles include:
Pencil Pleat and Eyelet Curtains: Measure from the top of the track or pole to the desired length. For floor-length curtains, measure about 1 cm above the floor.
Tab Top Curtains: Measure from the top of the pole to the desired length. Add an extra 5-10 cm if you want the curtains to puddle slightly on the floor for a more luxurious look.
Step 3: Consider Curtain Fullness
Curtain fullness refers to the amount of fabric used in relation to the width of the window. For a fuller look, which creates elegant folds, the width of the curtain fabric should be 1.5 to 2.5 times the width of the window. This ensures that the curtains do not appear flat when drawn.
Choosing the Right Style and Fabric
The style and fabric of your curtains can significantly impact the overall appearance of your room. Consider the following factors when making your selection:
Pencil Pleat: A classic style with tightly gathered folds at the top. Suitable for both traditional and contemporary settings.
Eyelet: It features large metal rings at the top, creating wide, even pleats. It is ideal for modern interiors and easy to hang on poles.
Curtain Fabrics
Polyester: A versatile and breathable fabric that’s easy to clean and works well in most rooms. Available in various weights and patterns.
Velour: These curtains add a touch of elegance and luxuriousness to any setting.
Thermal: An excellent option to keep rooms warm in winter and cool in summer, ideal for bedrooms and living rooms.
Tips for Hanging Curtains
Properly hanging your curtains can enhance their appearance and functionality. Keep these tips in mind:
Height Matters
Hanging curtains higher than the window frame can make the ceiling appear taller and the room more spacious. Aim to install the curtain pole or track about 15-20 cm above the window frame.
Extend Beyond the Window
As mentioned earlier, extending the curtain pole or track beyond the window frame on either side allows the curtains to fully cover the window and lets in maximum light when open.
Layering Curtains
For a more luxurious and functional window treatment, consider layering curtains. Sheer curtains can be paired with heavier drapes to provide both privacy and light control. This combination allows you to adjust the ambience of the room throughout the day.
Tiebacks
Tiebacks are practical accessories that keep your curtains neatly open during the day. They add a decorative touch and can be matched to the curtain fabric or other elements in the room.
Here are some guides on how to hang different curtain types:
The Ultimate Guide to Hanging Pencil Pleat Curtains
Hanging Eyelet Curtains: A Comprehensive Guide
A Short Guide on How to Hang Net Curtains
Choosing the right curtain size involves understanding standard sizes, accurately measuring your windows, and selecting a style and fabric that complements your decor. We hope this guide has helped you to understand more about curtain sizes. For more information, contact a member of our friendly team on 01623 445480.
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