A curtain is not ordered solely from the size of the glass. Its support may sit higher, the fabric may extend beyond the sides and the finished length depends on the heading or attachment system. Establish those reference points before selecting fabric quantities or ready-made panels.
Sketch the window with the intended support. Record the window width, available wall area and desired lower endpoint. Include radiators, the sill, furniture and other obstacles. The drawing prevents measurements from different possible arrangements being accidentally combined later.
Decide the hanging system first
A pole with eyelets, a track with gliders and other systems use different reference points. Read the measuring guidance for the specific system. IKEA's curtain planning also distinguishes the support dimensions from curtain length; exact allowances must suit the chosen version.
If the support already exists, measure its usable section. If it is yet to be installed, settle the position, appropriate fixings and required clearances before ordering fabric. Changing the mounting height later changes the necessary curtain length.
Separate coverage from fullness
The distance to cover is not automatically the fabric width laid flat. The intended gathering or folds can require additional material. Use the recommendation for the chosen heading tape, eyelets or ready-made product rather than an arbitrary universal multiplier.
Check whether the quoted dimensions refer to one panel or a pair. An apparently low price may cover only half the required quantity. For several windows, keep each item, quantity and configuration on the same order list.
Allow space for the open curtain to gather at the side. Without enough room, more fabric may remain in front of the window than expected. Daytime use therefore belongs in the measurement decision alongside the closed appearance.
Define the finished length
Measure from the reference point specified for the system to the intended endpoint. Check several positions if the floor or ceiling is uneven. One measurement can miss a variation across the window.
For fabric sold by length, include hems, construction allowances and any care-related dimensional change specified for the material. Obtain this information from the supplier or person making the curtains. Do not communicate the same number once as a finished length and once as a cutting length.
For ready-made panels, establish whether shortening is needed and appropriate for the material. A low purchase price can lead to alteration costs. Include those costs when comparing with an already suitable length.
Place an unambiguous order
Before purchase, bring together the system, panel count, finished dimensions, fabric option and any cutting instructions. Ask for unclear details to be confirmed in writing. This also preserves a record of the size actually ordered.
A sample helps assess colour and light in the room, but does not replace measurement checks. Resolve the geometry first, then choose the appearance among suitable options. Attractive fabric becomes an appropriate curtain only when support, width and length describe the same planned arrangement.
