How to Measure for Custom Drapery

Measuring correctly ensures your drapery looks full, tailored, and professionally installed. If you’re unsure at any step, contact us — we’re happy to guide you.

Step 1: Decide Your Mount Type

Wall Mount (Most Common)

• Installed on the wall above the window
• Creates height and makes ceilings feel taller
• Recommended for most spaces

Ceiling Mount

• Installed directly into the ceiling
• Ideal for tall ceilings or modern spaces
• Perfect for creating a “wall of fabric” look

Step 2: Determine Rod Width

This is where people often under-measure.

For Proper Fullness:

• Measure the full width you want the drapery to cover, not just the glass.
• We recommend extending your rod:
  
• 8–12 inches past the window frame on each side
• This allows panels to stack properly and lets in more light when open.
  

👉 Example:

If your window frame is 60” wide, your rod width should likely be 76–84”.

Measure from left rod end to right rod end.

Step 3: Determine Length

Where you measure from depends on your mount type.

Wall Mount Length:

Measure from:

• Top of rod → to floor

Ceiling Mount Length:

Measure from:

• Ceiling → to floor

Step 4: Choose Your Finished Look

How do you want your drapery length:

• Kiss the Floor (just touching)
• 1/2” above floor (clean + modern)
• 1–2” puddle (soft + luxe)

We custom-make to your exact measurement.

Step 5: Pleat Style Matters

Different pleat styles affect finished width slightly.

Examples:

• Pinch Pleat
• Ripplefold
• Grommet
• Rod Pocket

If you’re unsure which style works best for your space, we’re here to help.

How to Measure for Custom Roman Shades

Measuring correctly ensures your custom shade fits beautifully and functions perfectly. If you have questions at any point, contact us — we’re happy to help.

***Not 100% confident in your measurements or fabrics? We have 24 hour support for measuring tips and guidance on fabric selections. Order your sample kit first before placing your order to see and feel the fabrics.***

Step 1: Decide Inside Mount or Outside Mount

Inside Mount

• Installed inside the window frame
• Clean, tailored look
• Requires at least 2” depth for proper installation

Outside Mount

• Installed above and outside the window frame
• Great for covering trim or blocking more light
• Ideal if your window frame is shallow

Step 2: Measuring for Inside Mount

Measure in three places for both width and height.

Width:

• Measure the top inside width
• Measure the middle inside width
• Measure the bottom inside width
  Use the smallest measurement.

Height:

• Measure left side
• Measure center
• Measure right side
  Use the longest measurement.

Do not make any deductions — we will handle that for you.

Step 3: Measuring for Outside Mount

Width:

Measure the desired finished width of the shade.

We recommend extending 1–2 inches beyond the window frame on each side for better light control.

Height:

Measure from where you want the shade to begin (typically 2–4 inches above the window trim) down to where you want it to end.

Helpful Tips

• Always use a metal tape measure

• Measure to the nearest 1/8 inch

• Double-check all measurements

• If unsure, reach out before placing your order

Custom window treatments are made specifically for your home — accurate measurements are essential.

✨ Not Sure? We’ve Got You.

Drapery can feel overwhelming — but it doesn’t have to be.

• Send us a photo of your window

• Tell us your ceiling height

• Share your style preference

We’ll guide you through it.

Email us at info.waterloowindows@gmail.com

or

Book a free design consultation. You do not have to be local to schedule a free consult. We can FaceTime or talk through any measurements over the phone  

We’re here to make this easy.