Beautiful drapery begins long before the fabric is selected. It starts with understanding your windows, the proportions of your room, and how you want your curtains to look and feel.
Whether you envision soft, flowing sheers, elegant floor-length curtains, or beautifully tailored Roman shades, accurate measurements are the first step toward a result that feels truly made for your space.
At Ante Design, our mother-daughter drapery atelier creates custom window treatments for homeowners and interior designers across Toronto, the GTA, and Montreal. We've put together this simple measuring guide to help you get started.
How to Measure a Window for Curtains
To measure a window for custom curtains, you'll need a measuring tape, a notepad, and a few minutes of your time.
Start by measuring the window itself, including its frame. Then measure the surrounding wall space, the distance to the ceiling, and the height from the window to the floor.
These measurements help us understand the proportions of your space and recommend the most suitable curtain style, fabric, and installation.
Your Window Measuring Guide
1 — Window Width
Measure the full width of your window, including the frame, from one outer edge to the other.
2 — Window Height
Measure the height of your window, including the frame, from the top edge to the bottom edge.
3 — Window to Floor
Measure from the top of the window frame down to the floor. This helps determine the appropriate curtain length and placement.
4 — Window to Ceiling
Measure the distance between the top of the window frame and the ceiling or ceiling molding.
5 — Floor to Ceiling
Measure the full height from the floor to the ceiling or ceiling molding. This is particularly useful when considering ceiling-mounted drapery.
6 — Space on Either Side of the Window
Measure the distance from the window frame to the nearest wall, corner, or fixed architectural feature on both sides.
This helps us determine how far your curtains can extend beyond the window and how much space is available when they are open.
Should Curtains Be Wider Than the Window?
In many cases, yes.
Extending your curtains beyond the window frame can make a window appear wider, allow more natural light into the room when the curtains are open, and create a more balanced overall look.
The ideal width depends on your window dimensions, the available wall space, the fabric, and the fullness you prefer.
For custom drapery, we consider all these details to create curtains that complement the architecture rather than simply cover the glass.
How High Should You Hang Curtains?
One of our favourite ways to create a more elegant, spacious feeling is to position curtains above the window frame.
Installing drapery closer to the ceiling can visually elongate the walls and make the room feel taller.
However, every interior is different. Ceiling moldings, architectural details, furniture placement, and the type of curtain track or rod can all influence the ideal installation height.
The goal is always the same: beautiful proportions that feel natural to your space.
Do You Need Exact Measurements Before Contacting Us?
Not at all.
Your initial measurements don't need to be perfect. They simply give us a starting point to understand your windows and discuss the possibilities.
Before your custom drapery is made, precise measurements are essential. That's why we offer professional measuring and installation services as part of our approach to creating beautifully fitted window treatments.
How to Get Started With Ante Design
We've made the process simple.
Step 1 — Measure Your Windows
Use our illustrated guide to take the approximate dimensions of your windows and surrounding walls.
Step 2 — Take a Few Photos
Photograph your windows and the room around them. This helps us understand your interior, architectural details, and overall style.
Step 3 — Get in Touch
Send us an email or complete the contact form on our website. Include your measurements, photos, and a little information about what you're looking for.
Step 4 — Let's Create Something Beautiful
We'll get in touch to discuss your project, explore suitable fabrics and window treatment styles, and guide you through the next steps.
Custom Drapery in Toronto, the GTA & Montreal
At Ante Design, we believe that beautiful window treatments should feel like a natural extension of your home.
With over a decade of experience developed in Ukraine, our family atelier brings together thoughtful design, careful craftsmanship, and a curated selection of premium fabrics sourced directly from European and Turkish suppliers.
From delicate sheers and custom curtains to tailored Roman shades and decorative soft furnishings, every project is approached with personal attention and an appreciation for detail.
We work closely with homeowners and design professionals throughout Toronto, the Greater Toronto Area, and Montreal, offering guidance from fabric selection through measuring, fabrication, and installation.
Ready to transform your windows?
Contact Ante Design to tell us about your project. We'd love to help you create something beautiful.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should curtains touch the floor?
Floor-length curtains are a timeless choice. Depending on the desired look, curtains can finish just above the floor, lightly touch it, or extend slightly onto it for a softer, more relaxed effect.
How much wider should curtains be than the window?
The ideal width depends on the fabric, desired fullness, and available wall space. Custom curtains are often designed to extend beyond the window frame so the fabric can stack neatly to the sides when open.
Can I get a custom drapery quote with approximate measurements?
Yes. Approximate window measurements and room photographs are a helpful starting point for discussing your project and preparing an initial estimate. Final dimensions should be confirmed before fabrication.