Curtain Buying Guide – Measure, Choose & Style with Confidence

A cozy living room with soft beige curtains framing a large window, showcasing elegant window dressing in a bright, modern home.

Curtain Buying Guide – Measure, Choose & Style with Confidence

Curtains do more than just dress a window — they define the mood of your space. If you require blackout coverage, soft sheers, or bold statement fabric, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

From measuring tips to style choices and accessories, we've made it simple. Scroll down to find your perfect fit.

Useful information steps to measure for curtains

Side-by-side visual showing how to measure curtains using a curtain track and a curtain pole, with correct drop and width positioning.

STEP 1

Measure from the top of your track or pole to where you want the curtain to fall.

STEP 2

Measure the width of the pole or track

To work out the amount of fabric you will need for fullness, multiply the width of fabric by 1.5m to 2.5m (depending on the fullness you require, usually double the amount of fabric is sufficient.)

Read Full Measuring Guide

If You Have a Curtain Track:

top of the track to where you want the curtain to fall.

full width of the track from end to end.

pencil pleat or pinch pleat curtains.

2 to 2.5 times the width of your track to determine the required fabric for a full gather.

If You Have a Curtain Pole:

top of the pole (not the underside of the rings) to your desired curtain drop.

full length of the pole, not just the window.

eyelet or tab top curtain headings.

1.5 to 2 times the width of your pole for ideal fullness.

Before You Start Measuring:

steel tape measure for the most accurate results.

15–20 cm above the window frame.

15–20 cm of space on each side of the window to ensure the curtains cover properly and stack neatly.

Helpful Tip:

window recess and add 30 cm total (15 cm each side) to the width for a professional finish.

Dallas 100% Blackout Pencil Pleat Curtains, Natural - Curtains & Voiles - Yorkshire Linen Beds & More

Standard Curtain Sizes

Curtain sizes are always written as width x drop. Most curtains are sold in pairs, unless stated otherwise.

Our Curtain Types

Ring Top (Eyelet) Curtains
Sleek and contemporary, featuring metal rings for a streamlined look

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Pencil Pleat Curtains
Timeless and traditional, with neatly gathered fabric that adds sophistication.

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Tab Top Curtains
A modern twist with fabric loops for a relaxed yet refined style.

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Voile Curtains
Light and airy, ideal for soft diffused light and an ethereal feel.
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Net Curtains
Perfect for adding a layer of privacy while maintaining an open, breezy atmosphere.

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Curtain Heading Types – What Works Best?

Eyelet Curtains

Eyelet Curtains simple, and modern. No fuss.

Pencil Pleat Curtains

Gathered at with a tape. Best for curtain tracks, tall windows, or motorised systems.

Tab Top Curtains

Fabric loops go over the curtain pole. More casual, suited to lightweight fabrics and relaxed rooms.

Pinch Pleat Curtains

Pinch Pleat Curtains
Stitched pleats at the top create a tailored look. Great for formal rooms and traditional styles. Needs curtain hooks and a track or pole with rings.

Wave Curtains Soft

Wave Curtains
Soft, continuous wave-like folds. Works with special wave tracks. Modern and neat.

Rod Pocket Curtains

Pinch Pleat Curtains
Stitched pleats at the top create a tailored look. Great for formal rooms and traditional styles. Needs curtain hooks and a track or pole with rings.

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Curtain Buying Guide – Measure, Choose & Style with Confidence