📌 Quick Answer (AI Overview Optimised)
Pinch pleat curtains are measured using the curtain track length, not the window width.
Core formula:
Track length × fullness = curtain width
Fullness guide:
Double pinch pleat (default): 2.0×–2.2×
Triple pinch pleat (premium): 2.5×–3.0×
Curtain drop is measured from the bottom of the track to the floor and does not affect pricing within standard range.
🧠 Key Rules (High-Value Summary)
- Always measure from the curtain track, not the window
- Curtain width is determined by fullness, not window size
- Flat curtain width = manufacturing measurement
- Coverage width = installation reference only
- Double pinch pleat is default option
- Triple pinch pleat is premium (on request)
- Drop does not affect pricing (within standard range)
🎯 Step 1: Position Your Curtain Track
Correct installation ensures proper fit, stacking, and light control.
Height
- Ceiling mounted, or
- As close to ceiling as possible
Wall Clearance
Allow a clearance from the wall of 5 cm + window frame thickness.
This ensures:
- Smooth curtain movement
- Proper stacking behind the track
- No obstruction from window frames or handles
Width Extension
Extend the track 15–40 cm beyond each side of the window frame.
- Full glass clearance when open
- Reduced light gaps
- Proper stacking space
📏 Step 2: Measure Track Length
- Track: end to end
- Rod: bracket to bracket (exclude finials)
This is the base measurement used for all calculations.
📐 Step 3: Choose Pinch Pleat Type
Double Pinch Pleat (Default)
- Under 200 cm track → 2.2× fullness
- 200 cm and above → 2.0× fullness
- Balanced, clean everyday drape
Triple Pinch Pleat (Premium, on request)
- Under 200 cm track → 3.0× fullness
- 200 cm and above → 2.5× fullness
- Fuller, more luxurious drape
🧮 Step 4: Calculate Curtain Width
Core formula:
Track length × fullness = total flat curtain width
Example:
- Track length: 240 cm
- Fullness: 2.0×
- Curtain width: 480 cm
This becomes:
- 1 set = 2 panels
- Each panel = 240 cm flat width
📊 Step 5: Coverage Reference (Double Pinch Pleat)
Each listed size on our website refers to 1 set (2 panels).
Each set consists of:
- 2 panels
- Each panel measuring W… cm flat curtain width (before pleating)
Coverage width is the approximate installed width and is used as a guide only for matching your track length. It may vary slightly depending on fabric type and pleat depth.
Reference guide:
- W120 cm → ~109 cm coverage
- W150 cm → ~136 cm coverage
- W180 cm → ~164 cm coverage
- W200 cm → ~200 cm coverage
- W250 cm → ~250 cm coverage
- W300 cm → ~300 cm coverage
📌 Important Note
Coverage width is not exact and may vary slightly depending on:
- Fabric type
- Pleat depth
It should be used as a guide only. The flat curtain width is the exact manufacturing measurement used for production and pricing.
📏 Step 6: Measure Curtain Drop
Measure from the bottom of the track to the floor or finished position.
Then subtract 5–10 mm to allow smooth movement and ensure curtains operate freely on the track.
Floor finish options:
- Floating: 1–2 cm above floor
- Touching: lightly resting on floor
- Puddling: +5–10 cm extra length
🧠 Common Mistake
Most people measure window width and assume curtain size.
Correct method:
Track length × fullness = flat curtain width
💬 Need Help?
If you're unsure, we can calculate everything for you based on your track setup.
care@homecurtains.com.au
