Why measuring trips people up
Curtains that are slightly too long drag and collect dust; too short and they look as though they have shrunk. Most mistakes happen because of where the measurement starts. Taking a few minutes to measure carefully saves disappointment.
Decide the finished length
There are three common choices:
- Sill length: finishing about 1cm above the windowsill.
- Below sill: around 15cm below the sill, often used over radiators.
- Floor length: just clearing the floor, usually by about 1cm, or 'puddling' slightly for a softer look.
Where to measure from
For a pole, measure from the bottom of the curtain ring or the eyelet position to your chosen finish. For a track, measure from the top of the track. If the curtain heading sits above the track, allow for that too. Measure at both sides and the middle, as floors and windowsills are rarely perfectly level, especially in older Christchurch homes.
Preparing curtains for alteration
Take the curtains down, remove hooks and weights if possible, and bring a note of the finished length you want for each one. Labelling which curtain belongs to which window helps. If the curtains are lined, mention whether the lining is sewn in or detachable.
Other changes
Curtains can also be lengthened by adding a contrasting band, relined, or narrowed. Golden Button in Christchurch alters curtains and makes soft furnishings such as cushion covers and seat pads. Ring 07918 554569 to discuss.
Related service
Find out more about curtains, cushions & soft furnishings at Golden Button, or contact the workshop on Bargates in Christchurch.
Questions people ask
Can curtains be shortened from the top?
Sometimes, by moving the heading tape, but shortening from the hem is usually neater.
Do I need to wash curtains first?
If they will be washed in future, wash first so any shrinkage happens before altering.