Custom Linen Curtains

Guide to Measuring Custom Curtain Width and Length

Custom-made curtains are the best solution for your window. However, many questions often arise before ordering: How to measure the length correctly? How to calculate the width for a beautiful drape?

In this article, we provide practical tips to answer the most common questions—whether you order your curtains from our website or another sewing workshop.

1. How to Calculate the Correct Curtain Width?

To ensure curtains look harmonious and drape beautifully, it is important to calculate their width correctly. You need to consider the curtain rod length and the gathering factor (pleating).

1.1. Measuring the Curtain Rod Length

First, measure the length of the curtain rod—this is the area where the curtains will move.

1.2. The Gathering Factor: Why Is It Important?

Curtains are not hung as a flat fabric panel but are pleated. The degree of gathering determines the fullness of the curtain.

Depending on the fabric density, the following guidelines apply:

• Light, transparent fabrics (voile, sheer) – Factor 1.5-3 
  
• Medium-weight fabrics – Factor 1.5-2.5
  
• Heavy fabrics (blackout, velvet) – Factor 1.5-2

The type of attachment also affects the gathering factor:

• Tap Top – 1.5-2
  
• Eyelets – 2
  
• Rod pocket – 1.5-2
  
• Tie Top – 1.5-2
  
• Gathering tape – 1.5-2.5 (depending on tape type)

1.3. When Can the Gathering Factor Be Omitted?

If the curtain is purely decorative and does not need to close the window, its width can match the curtain rod length. However, in this case, the curtain will lay flat without pleats.

1.4. Formula for Calculating Curtain Width

The width of a single curtain is calculated using the following formula:

(Curtain rod length ÷ QTY of curtains) × Gathering factor + 5 cm (2 in) overlap

Example: For a curtain rod of 3 m (118 in) with two curtains made of medium-weight fabric with eyelets, the calculation would be:

3 m (118 in) ÷ 2 × 2 + 0.05 m (2 in) = 3.05 m (120 in)

2. Choosing the Right Gathering Tape and Pleats

Each type of gathering tape has a specific gathering factor and affects the appearance of the curtain. Different tapes create different pleat styles, ranging from classic to decorative.

2.1. Universal Gathering Tape (85 mm / 3.35 in)

• Gathering factor: 1:1.8
  
• Material: 100% cotton
  

Features: Versatile and compatible with different curtain rods and tracks. If no gathering tape is selected when ordering, this tape is used by default.

2.2. Pencil Pleat Tape (75 mm / 2.95 in)

• Gathering factor: 1:1.5
  
• Repeat: 6 cm / 2.36 in
  
• Material: 100% polyester
  

Pleat effect: Creates fine, uniform "pencil pleats," ideal for classic curtains.

2.3. Smock Pleat Tape (80 mm / 3.15 in)

• Gathering factor: 1:2
  
• Repeat: 6.5 cm / 2.56 in
  
• Material: 100% polyester
  

Pleat effect: This creates elegant, tightly gathered pleats, giving the curtain a voluminous and decorative look.

2.4. Single Pleat Tape (50 mm / 1.97 in)

• Gathering factor: 1:1.5
  
• Repeat: 12 cm / 4.72 in
  
• Pleat spacing: 8 cm / 3.15 in
  
• Material: 100% polyester
  

Pleat effect: Forms single, uniform pleats, ideal for a structured and modern look.

Each of these gathering tapes affects the curtain’s appearance differently. When choosing, consider both the desired pleat style and the curtain’s functionality.

3. How to Calculate the Correct Curtain Length?

To determine the correct curtain length, first decide how the curtain will be attached to the rod or track. Ideally, the rod or track should already be installed before taking measurements. This prevents measurement errors and the need for adjustments later.

The curtain length is measured from the top to the bottom edge of the curtain. Below are the most common rod and mounting options:

3.1. Ceiling Track and Curtain Rod with Built-in Guide

For these systems, we recommend curtains with gathering tape or the flex system. The attachment is done via hooks or clips, which should remain hidden behind the curtain.

• Narrow ceiling track: If you have a narrow ceiling track, the curtain can cover not only the hooks but also the track. In this case, choose curtains that reach "from ceiling to floor" with minimal clearance from the floor.

• Wide ceiling track: If the track should remain visible but the hooks need to be hidden, the top edge of the curtain should start just below the track.

Important dimensions H1 and H2 for curtains with ruffle tape

We recommend providing the seamstress with measurement H1 (distance from the top edge of the curtain to the bottom edge of the hooks). This measurement helps determine the correct gathering tape height and whether a header is needed. A header is an additional fabric strip above the gathering tape that covers the track or other mounting elements.

Additionally, measurement H2 (distance from the bottom edge of the hooks to the floor) is required.

Curtain Ordering: When placing an order, please specify the total curtain length L.

• Floor-length curtain:
  

L = H1 + H2 – H3 (distance between curtain and floor)

• Curtain pooling on the floor:
  

L = H1 + H2 + H4 (extra fabric for floor pooling)

After placing an order, we will clarify the following measurements for curtains with gathering tape:

• H1 – Distance from the bottom edge of the hook to the top edge of the curtain
  
• H2 – Distance from the bottom edge of the hook to the floor
  
• H3 – Distance between the curtain and the floor
  
• H4 – Extra fabric for pooling curtains

These precise measurements help us create perfectly fitting curtains according to your preferences.

3.2. Curtain Rod or Wire System

For curtain rods and wire suspension systems, curtains with loops, eyelets, rod pockets, gathering tape, or the flex system are suitable.

3.2.1. Curtains Tap Top or Rod Pocket

The curtain length corresponds to the distance from the top edge of the curtain rod to the floor, minus a hygiene gap.

• Floor-length curtain:
  

L = H – H3

• Curtain pooling on the floor:
  

L = H + H4 

Key measurements:

• H – Distance from the top edge of the curtain rod to the floor
  
• H3 – Distance between the curtain and the floor
  
• H4 – Extra fabric for floor pooling

3.2.2.Curtains with Eyelets

• H – Distance from the top edge of the curtain rod to the floor
  
• H3 – Hygienic gap between curtain and floor
  
• H4 – Extra fabric for an elegant floor pooling effect

3.2.3.Curtain Tie Top

A major advantage of curtains with tiebacks is that you can adjust the curtain height individually. The standard length of the tiebacks is approximately 45 cm. If you require a different length, please specify it in the order comments. This length is not included in the total curtain length. The top edge of the curtain starts at the point where the tiebacks are sewn.

Length Calculation for Curtains with Tiebacks:

• Floor-length curtain:
  

L = H – H3 – H5 (Desired distance between the curtain rod and the top edge of the curtain)

• Curtain pooling on the floor:
  

L = H – H3 – H5 + H4 (Extra fabric for floor pooling)

Key Measurements:

H – Distance from the top edge of the curtain rod to the floor

H3 – Hygienic gap between the curtain and the floor

H4 – Extra fabric for an elegant floor pooling effect

H5 – Desired distance between the curtain rod and the top edge of the curtain

3.2.4. Curtains with Gathering Tape

3.2.4.1. Attachment with Rings + Hooks/Clips

When choosing curtains with gathering tape for curtain rods with rings or hooks, you need to decide whether the curtain should cover only the hooks or partially cover the rings as well.

We ask our customers to provide the measurement from the bottom edge of the hook to the desired top edge of the curtain. The top edge can be aligned either with the bottom edge or the center of the ring, depending on the customer's preference.

Please specify whether you will attach the curtains with rings or clips:

• For clips, the seamstress sews the gathering tape with a small gap so that the clip can be attached at the upper edge of the tape.

Length Calculation for Curtains with Gathering Tape and Rings/Hooks:

• Floor-length curtain:
  

L = H1 + H2 – H3 (Hygienic gap between the curtain and the floor)

• Curtain pooling on the floor:
  

L = H1 + H2 + H4 (Extra fabric for floor pooling)

Key Measurements:

H1 – Distance from the bottom edge of the hook to the top edge of the curtain

H2 – Distance from the bottom edge of the hook to the floor

H3 – Hygienic gap between the curtain and the floor

H4 – Extra fabric for floor pooling

4. Recommendations for Choosing Curtain Length

4.1. Curtains Pooling on the Floor (H4)

4.2. Floor-Length Curtains (H3)

This is the classic choice for curtains. Here, it is especially important to determine the correct length, as even a slight measurement inaccuracy is noticeable.

We recommend keeping a hygienic gap of 2–3 cm  (1 in) between the curtain and the floor:

• Hygiene: Prevents dust accumulation on the fabric.

• Easy cleaning: Especially useful if you use a robot vacuum – in this case, the gap should match the height of the device.

4.3. Short Curtains: Above or Below the Windowsill?

Sometimes, it is recommended to have curtains end 10–15 cm above or below the windowsill. However, this often looks outdated.

Modern rule of thumb:

• If the curtain ends above the windowsill, leave a 1–1.5 cm (0.39–0.59 in) gap for a neat appearance.
  
• If the curtain ends below the windowsill, the gap should not exceed 15 cm (6 in).
  

These guidelines will help you choose the optimal curtain length for your needs.

5. Why Varvara Home?

Choosing custom linen curtains is a decision for quality, durability, and a perfect appearance. However, not every workshop understands the specifics of this natural fabric. In our atelier, we place great emphasis on precision, craftsmanship, and customer-oriented service.

1. Precise Fit – No Surprises After Washing

Linen naturally shrinks slightly after the first wash. In our workshop, we take this into account from the beginning:

★ We test our fabrics before processing.

★ We sew with precise shrinkage calculations so that the curtains retain their intended length after washing.

★ If unexpected shrinkage occurs, we will adjust the curtains for free.

2. Hand-Cut Fabric for Millimeter-Precise Fit

Linen requires special care when cutting. Unlike mass production, where fabrics are layered and cut with imprecise edges, we cut each piece by hand – precisely along the grain. This ensures perfect proportions and even edges.

3. High-Quality Craftsmanship – Every Seam Matters

Our seamstresses iron each seam during the sewing process to achieve a flawless final result. We pay attention to every detail – whether it's the gathering tape, decorative lace, or perfectly aligned loops.

★ No uneven stitches

★ No twisted or misaligned edges

★ Perfect draping and pleats

4. Custom Curtains That Last for Decades

Our linen curtains are designed to be both visually and functionally perfect for your needs. You decide on:

• The desired density and color of the linen
  
• The model and mounting style
  
• The exact length – floor-length or decorative pooling
  

While mass-produced curtains often have inconsistent quality, with us, you receive a flawless, long-lasting product that will enhance your home for many years.

Are you ready to order your custom linen curtains? We look forward to bringing your ideas to life!