Rules for choosing the width of curtains and cornices: how to measure and calculate the length of curtains

A window decorated with a curtain is a bright and eye-catching element of the interior. If the decor is chosen correctly, a curtained window opening creates a feeling of security, comfort and habitability of the space. Completes the interior solution without attracting the eye. To perfectly decorate the windows in your home, you need to make the correct calculation of the length and width of the curtains, and correctly select their style, quality and color. You can easily cope with the last task, but deciding on the size of the canvas is more difficult. After all, if you do the calculations incorrectly, the window opening will look unsightly - the curtain is too long or short, too gathered or stretched, does not cover well or greatly darkens the room. Knowing a few tricks, choosing the size of curtains will not be difficult at all.

Window decoration

The size of tulle and curtains directly depends on:

curtain type (Roman or curtains);
cornice lengths;
parameters and features of the window opening;
the general idea of the designer.

In order to avoid annoying mistakes when purchasing curtain fabric, you need to correctly calculate the size of the curtains.

If one of these factors is not taken into account, it will be difficult to correctly calculate the sides and area of the product. Accordingly, the aesthetic part of the enterprise is at risk.

If the tulle is too short, it will not be able to fulfill its direct function - to diffuse sunlight and complement the design of the room. This is especially true for the living room, because a flaw catches the eye and spoils the overall impression and mood.

The choice of cornice depends on the design of the room, the size of the surface to be decorated, the style of the curtains, the weight and texture of the fabric, and the method of its fastening, on the wall or ceiling.

If the curtains in the bedroom are not long enough, they will not be able to fully darken the space. And excessively large dimensions look untidy, and besides, it is unsafe. They are inconvenient to handle in everyday life, and they also get dirty quickly.

Manufacturers of home accessories have taken into account all the nuances; today you can buy products of standard sizes that are suitable for all typical rooms.

It’s the same story if the width for the curtains is chosen incorrectly: functionality is impaired, aesthetics are absent, and the overall impression is reduced. And curtains that are too wide usually just mean an untidy look.

When designing exclusive interiors, you can order a fastening system based on an individual project.

How to take measurements to choose curtain size

To determine the size of your curtains, you first need to determine which curtain rod you will use and where the curtain rod will be located. This is important because we will take subsequent measurements from the cornice.

Take a tape measure and take measurements as shown in the picture. Don't forget to write down all readings. Take measurements to the nearest centimeter.

So:

Measure the length of the curtain rod. (In fact, this will be the width of the window plus the indents on both sides of the window borders on which the cornice protrudes.) Measure the length of the cornice, within the limits of the curtain rod hangers, since the curtain fabric will not extend beyond them. If you have a different type of curtain rod and the curtain can move along its entire length, measure the full size. Let's call this size the Working length of the cornice.
Measure the distance from the cornice to the floor
Measure the distance from the eaves to the top edge of the window sill

How to choose a cornice according to window size

The width of the curtains and the width of the cornice are usually different numbers, because the exact dimensions of the fabric are selected for roller blinds, while the rest require an increase for drapery. But before deciding on curtains, you need to know how to calculate the length of the cornice.

If the standard size of the cornice does not match your length measurement of the opening, then you can always saw it down.

Select them for curtains as follows.

To the horizontal value of the window opening you need to add 15 cm on each side. This means that in total you will need to add 30-40 centimeters.
But there are exceptions that must be taken into account: the ability of the material to drape, and how harmoniously the size of the window fits into the decor. It is necessary to increase to 50-60 cm if it is too small and it is important to visually enlarge it. And if the curtains are not prone to folds, or are heavy, then you need to think about making them convenient to move to the side, allowing light to better penetrate the room.
If you have a large window, you can choose a shorter extension length than usual, but it is recommended not to make it shorter than ten cm at each end.

Wall cornices 3 m long must have at least 3 support points: 2 on the sides, one in the middle.

The misconception of beginners is to select the length of the cornice close to the window opening, in which case there will be a gap. And then the curtains do not fulfill their intended purpose: limiting the amount of sunlight inside the room and interior design. After all, it will not have any visual appeal, and there will also be gaps, which they usually try to get rid of.

Standard parameters were derived from the ergonomics of typical rooms, in which windows and walls are almost the same size.

Definition of width

The first stage ends when the height of the curtains from the floor is selected; what the width of the decor should be is determined secondly. In general, the following scheme is suitable:

If you order or buy a ready-made model, to determine the appropriate width, use a parameter such as the assembly factor (KS). To calculate the width of one canvas, the length of the cornice is divided in half; the resulting number is multiplied by the KS.

In a small apartment Source b3.3ddd.ru

If you are calculating the width of dense material for the outer layer of curtains, KS=2 is suitable. In other words, with a cornice width of 2 m, the width of the curtains increases to 4 m.

Exact calculation Source avatars.mds.yandex.net

Airy and delicate tulle curtains look harmonious with stronger drapery. Correct, soft waves are obtained if KS = 2 or 3. If the width of the cornice is 3 m, the total width of the tulle will be at least 6 m. If the design requires frequent waves, in some cases the KS is increased to 6-9.

With French chic Source www.arlekin.lviv.ua

Airy decor Source static.tildacdn.com

Choosing the length of the curtain rod for roller blinds

The type of roller or Roman blinds usually involves hanging the fabric directly next to the glass. It should close completely without gaps, but also remain functional. That is, how to choose the right curtain rod and calculate its length.

Calculating the dimensions of the cornice for a roller blind is simple; just measure the width of the window.

The size of the cornice is designed so that the curtain can completely cover the window.
But at the same time, be sure to take into account that when opening it does not interfere, and the slopes are not damaged.
Typically, the ideal dimensions correspond to the formula length plus 10-15 cm.

Holders for roller blinds can be purchased ready-made or ordered from a workshop.

Please note: if Roman blinds are attached to a window opening, then this is done according to the rules of curtain curtains.

Material of manufacture

Here it is worth paying attention to the fact that all natural materials are more expensive than artificial ones. Therefore, wood products will definitely be expensive, and plastic will be significantly cheaper. However, this does not mean that plastic products cannot be beautiful. Traditionally, curtain rods are offered from the following materials:

Metal.
Tree.
Plastic.

It is worth paying attention to one more point: forged metal pendants can be very expensive, since they are often handmade products presented in limited quantities. In addition, the chosen material will radically affect the size of the curtains.

How to calculate the width of a curtain according to the cornice

How to choose the size of curtains for a window is a question that arises after choosing the curtain rod itself. The basic values of canvas centimeters are the minimum width and length without additional nuances. Based on these numbers, each housewife calculates whether it is necessary to add auxiliary segments and in what quantities.

A correctly installed cornice should extend from each side of the window opening by 20-25 centimeters.

Often, the length of the curtain rod is a relative value, because much depends on the design, which does not always include the full use of the mounting pipe in the standard position. In the bedroom, the fastening for curtains is often done from wall to wall; in other rooms the additional distance is less. Therefore, the best option is to focus on the curtain model, the number of layers, and the type of fastening.

This installation allows you to freely move the curtains apart in order to sufficiently illuminate the room.

What's the best way to take basic measurements?

The height is measured using a centimeter or tape measure from the hanging point to the lowest point (usually 3 cm from the floor).
The width is measured with the same devices, only the reference points are the first and last fasteners (they are often hooked on the very corners of the product).

A window that is too narrow can be visually expanded if desired.

The methods of attaching curtains to the flow depend on the material from which it is composed.

Plasterboard ceilings. Please note: at the repair stage, you need to lay a separate profile, wooden supports, beams of your choice, in order to subsequently attach the cornice to it. Fixing directly to a sheet of drywall is not possible. This will damage the ceiling structure itself, making it fragile and dangerous.

Installing a ceiling cornice on a plasterboard ceiling

Necessary tools: drywall screws, screwdriver (drill), level, marker, tape measure.

Instructions

We mark places for drilling along the entire curtain line. We take into account the distance from the window. It's best to use a level to maintain a straight line.
If there are bends, we assemble the cornice into a single structure.
Depending on the configuration, we screw the brackets or the cornice itself directly to the ceiling.
Plugs are placed on the edges of the structure.

Additional bookmarks are also required for fastening to suspended ceilings. It is necessary to take into account their fragility and subtlety. It is possible to lay wooden supports before its installation. Or bring the ceiling close to the plasterboard niche in which the cornice will be hidden.

Installation of the embedded beam - installation of a ceiling cornice to a plasterboard and suspended ceiling

Reinforced concrete floors. They do not require additional design at the repair stage. The most popular way.

Technology for installing a ceiling cornice on a concrete ceiling

Required Tools

Dowels. Butterfly - opens when screwing in a self-tapping screw. Umbrella - the protrusions open when they enter the void between the drywall and the wall. The screw - dowel and self-tapping screw are screwed in at the same time. There are plastic and iron ones. When choosing, you need to consider the weight of the curtains. Iron ones are more reliable.
Hammer.
Screwdriver.
Level.
Rubber hammer.

Let's look at what steps need to be completed.

We assemble the cornice into a solid structure.
We mark the places for drilling.
We punch holes with a hammer drill.
We attach the curtain or brackets to the ceiling.
We fasten with dowels.
We put on the plugs.

The final stage for all processes is decorating the entire structure, if any elements are present.

If mounting the cornice on the ceiling is not possible, then it is attached to the wall using brackets

Some manufacturers claim the following fastening methods: glue, tape. Masters consider them irrelevant and hazardous to health. Over time, they may not be able to withstand the weight of the curtains and injure family members if they fall. It makes no sense to consider these options in more detail.

Ceiling curtains are equipped with braid. May have a smooth edge. They are attached using hooks, clothespins, and Velcro. When ordering, take into account the intended method of fixation on the cornice itself.

Curtains to the ceiling are an excellent choice for bedrooms and living rooms. Due to their strength, they will withstand any weight of decorative elements. The right material will complement the overall impression of the room.

Refining the width parameters to perfection

The width of the curtain is not only the distance from the first to the last hook, but also takes into account the drapery that the owner wants to make. The splendor and volume of the folds also depends on the area and decor of the room. If the window is located in a spacious room, there is no furniture close to it, then a large amount of drape will look impressive.

Less noticeable folds fit better into modest sizes.

The most accurate measurements are obtained by using a metal tape measure rather than the usual measuring tape.

This means that the following must be taken into account.

A large bedroom or living room often has small windows, so a lot of drapery is inappropriate there. The same goes for the doorway.
If the window design is characterized by two layers, then the top panel should be 15 cm longer to achieve a more impressive result.
If the room is not spacious, but not too modest, then you can use standards based on the length of the cornice. Its duration (if there are two or three leaves) is usually multiplied by a factor of one and a half. And long fastenings for curtains from two to four meters are multiplied with values of two and three, respectively.
If the sizes of the window and the room are not proportional and not standardized, then you can start from the type of material. The values of curtain sections are usually multiplied by one point and seven tenths, and the veil, organza with print - by two. If the last fabric is without a pattern, then you can safely multiply it by three.

The use of ceiling cornices allows you to beautifully decorate windows, as well as separate part of the room with a curtain.

Important: the lambrequin is not counted in the same way as the curtains; their duration is equal to the length of the fastening pipe.

How to calculate length

The length of the curtain is the distance from the rod (string, rail) of the curtain rod to the selected level. The length of the curtains is chosen according to the interior style and tastes of the owners. Curtains can:

reach the floor
lie on the floor like a train,
end at the windowsill,
fall below it by 10-15 cm.

In addition, the height of the curtain is influenced by how its top edge will be processed - whether it will be curtain tape, drawstring, fabric loops or ties, eyelets, clothespins or hooks.

The curtains will have to be washed over time. All fabrics (natural ones - to a greater extent) have the property of “shrinking” - decreasing in size after washing. Linen, for example, “shrinks” up to 10% of the original parameters. To avoid an unpleasant situation, an allowance for shrinkage is made on the hem of the bottom - an additional safety margin of 5-8 cm is added. In total, 10-12 cm of allowance will go to the bottom edge.

An example of curtain calculation if the length of the curtain rod is 3 or 4 meters

When the curtains are 4 meters wide or even more, then the designer bears a considerable responsibility. After all, large windows become the central part of the interior; it is important to design them correctly, taking into account the rules and wishes of the owner. Therefore, for such cases, the path of self-tailoring is usually chosen.

How long a wall or ceiling holder for curtains should be is up to everyone to choose for themselves.

To do this, you must first measure a 3 or 4 meter curtain mount to understand what the exact base figure will be, which you will then need to multiply with the drapery coefficient (DR).

Correctly selected curtain rod sizes will not only create a cozy atmosphere, but will also facilitate various manipulations with curtains.

Instructions:

We determine how many parts will need to be sewn.
Then cut them out taking into account the pattern and seam allowances.
In some cases, when the fabric has a large part of natural composition, it is necessary to give a centimeter or two for the fabric to shrink after washing and ironing.

By correctly choosing the size of the cornice and setting it to a certain height, you can visually expand or narrow the room, increase or decrease (again visually) the height of the ceiling.

Advice. Often, after sewing long original curtains (especially with a pattern that was selected), there are leftover fabrics. They are good for making garters or pillowcases for decorative pillows. This will add harmony to the interior and look stylish.

Different types of fastenings

First of all, it is worth deciding on the place where the cornice will be mounted. It can be placed on the wall surface or on the ceiling. At the same time, placement on a particular surface allows you to create certain visual effects:

The ceiling mount involves the installation of brackets that hold the curtain rod on the ceiling plane. Consequently, the fabric will cover the entire wall area from floor to ceiling and will make the room visually higher.
Wall placement of the suspension makes it possible to hide the excessive height of the walls. This is true for narrow and tall rooms.

Be sure to estimate the weight of the curtains you plan to hang. Light curtains can be hung on any structure, but for heavier curtains it is better to choose a ceiling mount as such hangers can withstand heavy loads.

Calculating the width of the curtain with a long cornice

Curtains with an aspect ratio of one to three or more are usually more suitable for heavy drapery. Therefore, it makes sense to use its coefficient - CD. For example, for this we take a curtain fabric, the cornice is three meters long, with CD = two and a half. This means we multiply these numbers and get a curtain width of seven and a half meters.

If you want the cornice to be invisible, choose an aluminum profile cornice or a plastic rail (cornice).

But the width of the piece of fabric will have to be made larger by at least two to three centimeters for processed seams and for shrinkage. And if the edges have bias tape or other decorative elements, then such additions are not necessary. The same goes for artificial materials that do not shrink.

Cornices are most often installed in one, two and three rows.

Curtains for curtains: photos in the interior

A selection of photos with ceiling curtains for curtains in a modern interior will help you make your choice.

Examples of correct calculation and design of windows

If the owner has a standard double-leaf window, usually it is one meter and forty centimeters wide, then the cornice is selected under it + 15 cm on each side. This means that the sum of the length of the window opening and the indentation will be equal to 1.70 m. If you consider that such windows are often found in the kitchen, the fabric will not be heavy, there is no point in draping it too much, so the coefficient may be two or slightly less.

By installing a cornice right under the ceiling, you can visually increase the height of the room.

As a result, we multiply the length of the cornice by a factor of two, we get 3.40 m of the curtain itself. And for cutting, you need to add centimeters for processing and shrinkage. It turns out that you need to cut three and a half meters wide on the curtain.

If the ceilings are high enough, the cornice can be installed just above the window.

Rules for installing ceiling curtains

Do not rush when installing curtains in place. First you need to carefully think through everything, measure and make sure that the curtains on them will decorate the interior without interfering with normal life. We are talking about the following nuances:

In order for the window to open normally and tilt for ventilation, the curtains with fastening elements should not create obstacles for this. Therefore, they should be located above the window opening;
It is advisable to be able to fully open the window opening by opening the curtains. To do this, the curtains must be longer than the width of the window so that the curtains in the extended position fit on the sides of the opening and do not cover it. This depends on their density and width, so in each case the length is calculated individually;
relative to the wall with the window, the curtains should be located at such a distance that the curtains do not touch the window sill or heating radiators. It is clear that when choosing this distance, you need to focus on the very first layer of curtains, closest to the window.

Curtain installation diagram

Conclusion

The width of the curtains and cornice is an important component when calculating the tailoring and installation of the product, because it should look presentable and allow the interior to look complete. If the window is large, it automatically becomes the center of attention, so it is important to make it flawless, which is why designers are often invited to carry out the project. They know how to take into account the nuances of the material, furnishings and dimensions of the room, as well as accurately calculate the drapery coefficients of the material.

If you need to visually increase the width of the entire room, use a wall-to-wall cornice.

What to consider

To decorate a room beautifully and harmoniously, you need to take into account many nuances at once, among which the selection of ceiling or wall curtains will occupy not the least place. When choosing the most suitable cornice for you, you need to take into account the following points:

The distance from the ceiling to the axis of the curtain should be approximately equal to a third of the distance from the ceiling to the upper slope of the window opening.
The wall curtain should protrude from the sides of the window opening by approximately 15 - 40 centimeters.
For ceiling cornices, the best choice would be to place them from one wall to another if the room has standard dimensions. For large rooms, you should be guided by the general design idea and be guided by the fact that the curtains should protrude along the edges of the window by the same 15 - 40 centimeters as the wall structures.

The rest is determined by your personal preferences. However, it is worth remembering that the cornice, like any other component of the interior, should complement it, creating a single design picture. An exception may be ceiling tires, which are practically invisible. However, they can also become decorations if you use special baguette strips that turn a standard product into a decorative element.

Main types of curtains

If ceiling curtains are installed, lambrequin curtains or standard curtains can be fixed. Suitable products can highlight advantages and hide disadvantages. The main types of curtains include:

Classic. They are considered the most popular in window decoration. The products are presented in the form of a thin curtain along the entire height of the window and a curtain that protects from light. Curtains are in perfect harmony with various interiors. They are secured to the cornice with various parts: loops, ties, drawstrings or lambrequins.
French. The curtains have several sections, assembled along the length. They are semicircular at the bottom. They have a luxurious look. Usually they can be found in theaters and restaurants. If you choose them for housing, then they are suitable only for a classic room.
Austrian curtains. They became popular in the 18th century when they were used to decorate shutters and were made from rough material. Changes are gradually taking place with them, and therefore they are now made of expensive fabrics. Compared to French ones, they have semicircular folds only at the bottom of the material.
Cafe style curtains are presented in the form of small decorative products. They are fixed on a light cornice located on the window sash. The product hides the room from prying eyes and at the same time lets in daylight. Ideal for decorating kitchen windows.
Roman. These are smooth canvases that fold upward into horizontal folds, like an accordion. The curtains are made to fit the frame, so it looks like they are inserted into the window. To make them, any fabric in density and color is used.
Italian. The curtains do not open completely, they are pulled together with cords that run diagonally to the end of the curtain rod and are passed through rings. Ideal for tall windows.
Japanese. They are also called panel ones and look laconic. This is a great option for minimalist style rooms. Japanese curtains look great in a room with large windows. They are used as dividing screens for zoning a room.
Crossed. Presented in the form of two connected canvases. In order not to darken the room, you need light, transparent materials. They are attached with unusual holders.
Rope. This is a stylish, fashionable element of room decoration. They are made from threads and other decorative details. In interiors, “rain curtains” and curtains made of beads are often found. Such solutions are chosen by creative people.
Rolled ones are presented in the form of a solid canvas, which is rolled up into a roll. These curtains have a special mechanism necessary for fixing them at a comfortable level. They are usually made from light-protective material.

Thus, ceiling curtains come in different types. For each room you can choose suitable designs. Also, curtains and tulles that match the style are selected for them. Suitable interior elements, correctly fixed, will be an excellent decoration for your home.