How to Measure for Eyelet Curtains?

Why accurate measuring matters

Getting the measurements right is key to ensuring your eyelet curtains hang beautifully and perform as they should. These curtains are designed to slide directly onto a pole through metal rings, creating even folds and a modern, relaxed look. If your measurements are off, they may hang awkwardly, drag on the floor, or fail to meet properly in the middle. With a few careful steps, you can guarantee a perfect fit every time.

Tools you’ll need

You won’t need much—just a metal tape measure, a pencil, and a notepad to jot down your figures. For tall windows, a step ladder might come in handy too.

Decide how you want them to hang

Before you measure, decide how high you want the curtains to start and where you’d like them to finish. Eyelet curtains are almost always fitted above the window recess on a curtain pole rather than inside it. This allows the fabric to fall freely and gives your window a taller, more elegant appearance.

Step-by-step measuring guide

• Measure the pole width:
  Measure the full width of your curtain pole (not the window frame). If you don’t have a pole yet, measure the width of the window and add at least 15–20 cm on each side so the curtains can be drawn back fully without blocking the light.
  
• Calculate the curtain width:
  To achieve soft, even folds, the total curtain width should be roughly 1.5 to 2 times the width of your pole. For example, if your pole is 200 cm wide, aim for curtains with a combined width of around 300–400 cm.
  
• Measure the drop (length):
  Measure from the top of the pole (not the top of the eyelet) to your desired curtain length. Eyelet curtains typically sit about 1.5 cm above the pole, so the finished drop will be slightly shorter than your measurement. Decide whether you want them to:
  
  • just touch the sill,
    
  • fall below the sill, or
    
  • reach the floor for a more luxurious look.
    

Common mistakes to avoid

Avoid measuring from the top of the eyelet or from the window recess – always measure from the top of the pole. Don’t forget to double-check your measurements; even a few centimetres can make a big difference. Also, remember that the curtains hang slightly below the pole, so don’t assume the drop will match your full measurement exactly.

Prefer a professional touch?

If you’re unsure or just want the job done perfectly, you can always rely on experts like Kelly’s Blinds. Their specialists can measure and fit your curtains precisely, ensuring a flawless result without the guesswork.

What to do next

Once you’ve got your measurements, it’s time to pick your perfect pair. Explore the collection of eyelet curtains to find fabrics, colours, and finishes that bring your room to life.

FAQ – How to Measure for Eyelet Curtains?

Should I measure the window or the pole?

Always measure the curtain pole, not the window, as the curtains hang from it rather than inside the recess.

How much wider should eyelet curtains be than the pole?

They should be around 1.5 to 2 times wider for a soft, full look.

Where should I measure the drop from?

Measure from the top of the pole, not the eyelet, down to your desired length.