How to Measure Windows for Pinch Pleat Drapes

It can be considered a matter of taste on where to hang your pinch pleated drapery panels, however, there are a few guidelines that will maximize your window size and make the best use of your drapery panels.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Tape measure
• Sturdy step stool
• Notepad and pencil

1. Begin by measuring the width of your window, using your tape measure. This can be done at any point from left to right on the window.

2. Next, measure the wall space (width wise) to the left and right of the window.

3. Next, using your step stool if necessary, measure from the top of your window to the floor.

4. Next, measure from the top of your window frame to the ceiling or other obstacle (i.e. another window, artwork, etc.)

5. You will want to take the width of your window plus about 6 inches of wall space on either side. (Example: window width is 34" + 6" + 6"= 46").
   Multiply 46" by 2.5. (2.5 will give you enough fabric to allow for additional fabric needed when pleating). Divide this number by the width of the fabric. (Example: 46x2.5=115". Fabric width is 54" 115"/54"= 2.13). Round up, and this is the number of widths of fabric you will need for one drapery panel. In our example, you will need three widths. (You may cut one of your widths in half if you'd rather not have the extra fullness)

6. Next, take the length from the top of your window to the floor and add 12" for header and 6" for hems. (You can add more if you'd like). Example: 80" + 12" + 6" = 98". Divide this number by 36" (for a yard of fabric). Our result is 2.72, rounded up is 3 yards. You will need three widths of fabric at 3 yards each (or 9 yards of fabric) to make pinch pleated drapery panels for this window.