The Complete Guide to Measuring for Custom Curtains & Blinds
Get Perfect Results Every Time
Why Accurate Measurements Matter
Custom curtains and blinds are made specifically to your measurements. Unlike ready-made products, there’s no “close enough”—precision is essential for:
✓ Perfect fit that looks professionally installed
✓ Proper light blocking and privacy coverage
✓ Smooth operation without binding or gaps
✓ Avoiding costly remakes due to measurement errors
This guide will walk you through the entire measurement process step-by-step. Take your time, measure twice, and you’ll get perfect results.
Before You Start: Essential Tools & Preparation
Tools You’ll Need
Required:
- Steel measuring tape (at least 3 meters/10 feet long)
- Do NOT use cloth measuring tapes—they stretch and give inaccurate readings
- Notepad and pen to record measurements
- Stepladder or sturdy stool for reaching high windows
- Calculator (for adding allowances)
Helpful (Optional):
- Laser distance measure (for very large windows or hard-to-reach areas)
- Spirit level (to check if window frames are level)
- Helper (someone to hold the other end of the tape measure)
- Camera/phone (to take photos of windows for reference)
Before You Measure
☐ Decide on mounting type: Inside Mount or Outside Mount (see next section)
☐ Clear the area around windows
☐ Remove any existing curtains or blinds
☐ Check if window frames are square (measure both sides and top)
☐ Identify any obstacles: handles, locks, window cranks, air-con units
Step 1: Choose Your Mounting Type
The mounting type determines where your curtains or blinds will be installed and how you should measure.
Inside Mount (Recess/Within the Frame)
What it is:
Curtains or blinds installed inside the window frame/recess
Best for:
- Deep window recesses (minimum 8cm depth recommended)
- Clean, minimalist look
- Windows without obstructions (handles, cranks)
- Perfect fit is essential
Advantages: ✓ Sleek, built-in appearance
✓ Doesn’t protrude into room
✓ Good for small spaces
✓ Shows off window frames
Considerations:
- Requires sufficient recess depth
- Less light-blocking (light may leak around edges)
- Less privacy coverage
- Frame must be square and even
Measuring for Inside Mount: See Section 2
Outside Mount (Face Fix/Above the Frame)
What it is:
Curtains or blinds installed outside/above the window frame, covering the frame and wall space
Best for:
- Windows with shallow or no recesses
- Maximum light blocking and privacy
- Covering imperfect window frames
- Making windows appear larger
Advantages: ✓ Better light blocking and privacy
✓ Makes windows look bigger
✓ Hides unsightly frames
✓ More forgiving of uneven frames
✓ More flexible placement
Considerations:
- Protrudes into room slightly
- Requires wall space above/around window
- Must account for obstructions (air-con, light switches)
Measuring for Outside Mount: See Section 3
Step 2: Measuring for Inside Mount
For Curtains (Inside Mount)
Width Measurement:
- Measure the inside width of the window recess at three points:
- Top of the recess
- Middle of the recess
- Bottom of the recess
- Record the narrowest measurement (this ensures the curtain will fit even if the frame isn’t perfectly square)
- Do NOT add extra width for inside mount curtains—we will make standard deductions for proper fit
Example:
- Top: 152cm
- Middle: 150cm ← Use this (narrowest)
- Bottom: 151cm
Your measurement: 150cm
Height/Drop Measurement:
- Measure from the top of the recess to the sill (or desired endpoint) at three points:
- Left side
- Center
- Right side
- Record the longest measurement (this ensures full coverage)
- Decide where you want the curtain to end:
- To the sill: Measure to top of windowsill
- Below the sill: Measure to desired length below sill (typically 10-15cm below)
- To the floor: Measure to 1-2cm above floor (prevents dragging)
Example:
- Left: 180cm
- Center: 181cm ← Use this (longest)
- Right: 180cm
Your measurement: 181cm
For Blinds (Inside Mount)
Width Measurement:
- Measure the inside width at three points:
- Top (where headrail will sit)
- Middle
- Bottom
- Record the narrowest measurement
- Deduct 5-10mm from the narrowest measurement to ensure blinds don’t bind
- For 0-100cm width: Deduct 5mm
- For 101-200cm width: Deduct 8mm
- For 201cm+ width: Deduct 10mm
Example:
- Narrowest width: 120cm
- Deduction: 8mm (0.8cm)
- Your measurement: 119.2cm (round to 119cm)
Height Measurement:
- Measure from top of recess to sill at three points:
- Left side
- Center
- Right side
- Record the longest measurement
- Deduct 5mm to allow for clearance
Example:
- Longest height: 150cm
- Deduction: 5mm (0.5cm)
- Your measurement: 149.5cm (round to 149cm)
Important Notes for Inside Mount
⚠️ Check Recess Depth:
- Roller blinds: Minimum 6cm depth required
- Venetian blinds: Minimum 7cm depth required
- Roman blinds: Minimum 8cm depth required
- Curtains with track: Minimum 8cm depth required
⚠️ Check for Obstructions:
- Window handles or cranks
- Air-con units
- Curtain/blind must clear these when raised/opened
⚠️ If Recess is Not Square: If measurements vary by more than 1cm between sides, consider outside mount instead for better results.
Step 3: Measuring for Outside Mount
For Curtains (Outside Mount)
Width Measurement:
- Measure the width of the window frame (the visible frame, not the glass)
- Add extension on each side:
- Standard: Add 15-25cm per side (30-50cm total)
- Full coverage: Add 30-40cm per side (60-80cm total)
- This ensures curtains cover the frame and block light when closed
- Total width = Frame width + Left extension + Right extension
Example:
- Window frame width: 120cm
- Add 20cm per side: 120cm + 20cm + 20cm
- Your measurement: 160cm
Why add extensions?
- Blocks light leakage around edges
- Creates elegant draping when curtains are open
- Makes window appear larger
- Provides better privacy
Height/Drop Measurement:
- Decide where the track/rod will be mounted:
- Standard: 10-15cm above the window frame
- Ceiling height: 5-10cm below ceiling (makes room feel taller)
- Measure from the track/rod position to desired endpoint:
- To the sill: Measure to top of sill (may look short)
- Below the sill: 10-20cm below sill (most common)
- To the floor: 1-2cm above floor (elegant, full-length look)
- Measure at three points (left, center, right) and use the longest measurement
Example:
- Track position: 15cm above frame
- Desired length: 10cm below sill
- Frame to sill height: 180cm
- Total: 15cm + 180cm + 10cm
- Your measurement: 205cm
For Blinds (Outside Mount)
Width Measurement:
- Measure the width of the window frame
- Add overlap on each side:
- Minimum: 5cm per side (10cm total) for basic coverage
- Recommended: 8-10cm per side (16-20cm total) for better light blocking
- Maximum privacy: 12-15cm per side (24-30cm total)
- Check for obstructions on the wall (light switches, air-con units)
Example:
- Window frame width: 100cm
- Add 10cm per side: 100cm + 10cm + 10cm
- Your measurement: 120cm
Height Measurement:
- Decide headrail mounting position:
- Standard: 5-10cm above window frame
- Full coverage: Up to 15cm above frame
- Measure from headrail position to desired endpoint:
- To cover sill: 5cm below sill
- Maximum coverage: 10-15cm below sill
Example:
- Headrail position: 10cm above frame
- Frame height: 150cm
- Extension below sill: 10cm
- Total: 10cm + 150cm + 10cm
- Your measurement: 170cm
Step 4: Special Window Types
Bay Windows
Method 1: Separate Sections (Recommended)
- Measure each window section separately
- Order individual blinds/curtains for each section
- More flexible operation
- Better light control
Method 2: Continuous Track/Single Curtain
- Measure the entire bay width following the angles
- Add measurements of all sections together
- Order one long curtain track
- Elegant, flowing appearance
Important: For bay windows, contact us for a free consultation. Bay windows can be tricky, and we’ll help you get it right.
Sliding Doors / Patio Doors
Width:
- Measure full width of door frame
- Add 20-30cm per side for stacking space (where curtains/blinds go when open)
- Ensure enough wall space for stacking
Height:
- Measure from mounting point to 1-2cm above floor
- Avoid curtains that drag on floor (catch on door track)
Recommended: Vertical blinds work exceptionally well for sliding doors
Corner Windows / L-Shaped Windows
- Measure each wall section separately
- Order separate curtains/blinds for each section
- OR use a corner-compatible track system (contact us for options)
Arched or Shaped Windows
- Not suitable for standard curtains/blinds
- Custom solutions available—please contact us for consultation
- We can recommend specialty options
Windows with Air-Con Units
Inside mount: Usually not possible—use outside mount
Outside mount:
- Measure around the air-con unit
- Ensure curtain/blind clears the unit when closed
- May require split curtains (one on each side of unit)
Contact us to discuss the best solution for your specific situation.
Step 5: Recording Your Measurements
Measurement Worksheet
Use this template to record your measurements clearly:
WINDOW LOCATION: _________________________
(e.g., Master Bedroom Window 1, Living Room Left)
MOUNTING TYPE: ☐ Inside Mount ☐ Outside Mount
PRODUCT TYPE: ☐ Curtains ☐ Roller Blinds ☐ Venetian Blinds
☐ Day & Night ☐ Vertical Blinds ☐ Other: _______
WIDTH MEASUREMENTS:
- Point 1 (Top/Left): _______ cm
- Point 2 (Middle/Center): _______ cm
- Point 3 (Bottom/Right): _______ cm
- FINAL WIDTH: _______ cm
HEIGHT MEASUREMENTS:
- Point 1 (Left): _______ cm
- Point 2 (Center): _______ cm
- Point 3 (Right): _______ cm
- FINAL HEIGHT/DROP: _______ cm
RECESS DEPTH (if inside mount): _______ cm
SPECIAL NOTES:
(obstructions, preferences, questions)
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
Download our printable measurement worksheet: [Link to PDF]
Take Photos
Take clear photos of:
- Full window view (shows surrounding wall space)
- Close-up of window frame
- Any obstructions (handles, air-con, etc.)
- Measuring tape in position (for verification)
Photos help us verify measurements and catch potential issues before production.
Step 6: Double-Check Everything
Measurement Checklist
Before submitting your order, verify:
☐ I measured at multiple points (top/middle/bottom or left/center/right)
☐ I used the correct measurement (narrowest for width inside mount, longest for heights)
☐ I added appropriate allowances for outside mount
☐ I recorded measurements in centimeters (not inches or feet)
☐ I measured recess depth for inside mount
☐ I checked for obstructions (handles, air-con, etc.)
☐ I took photos of the windows
☐ I labeled each window clearly (especially if ordering multiple)
☐ Someone else has verified my measurements (highly recommended!)
Common Measurement Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Using cloth tape measures → Use steel measuring tape
❌ Measuring in inches → Measure in centimeters
❌ Rounding up significantly → Be precise to the nearest 0.5cm
❌ Forgetting to account for obstructions → Check handles, cranks, air-con
❌ Not measuring multiple points → Frames are often not square
❌ Adding your own deductions for inside mount → We make the deductions
❌ Measuring the glass instead of the frame → Measure the full frame
❌ Forgetting about wall space for outside mount → Check for switches, etc.
❌ Assuming all windows are the same size → Measure each window separately
Step 7: Ordering Your Custom Curtains/Blinds
How to Submit Measurements
Option 1: Order Directly on Shopee/Lazada
- Select your product (fabric, style, type)
- Choose “Custom Size” option
- Enter your width and height measurements
- Add any special instructions in the notes
- Upload photos if possible
Option 2: Contact Us First (Recommended for First-Time Buyers)
- Send measurements to: enquiry.iworx@gmail.com
- Include photos of your windows
- Our team will review and confirm measurements
- We’ll guide you through the ordering process
- This ensures everything is correct before production
Contact Methods:
- Email: enquiry.iworx@gmail.com (send measurements, photos, questions)
- WhatsApp: +65 8837 9791 (quick questions, photo sharing)
- Phone: (+65) 8837 9791 / 8093 8136 (for consultations)
What Happens Next?
- Order Received: We receive your measurements and order details
- Verification: Our team reviews measurements (we’ll contact you if anything seems unusual)
- Production: Once confirmed, custom production begins (7-10 working days)
- Quality Check: Finished product is inspected before shipping
- Delivery: Delivered to your address via Shopee/Lazada courier
- Installation: You install using our guides, or we can recommend professional installers
Step 8: Installation Considerations
Check Before Installing
When you receive your custom curtains/blinds:
☐ Open package and inspect immediately
☐ Verify measurements match your order
☐ Check fabric/color matches your selection
☐ Test hardware operation (without installing)
☐ Report any issues before installation
Important: Once installed, returns are generally not accepted (unless there’s a manufacturing defect). Inspect thoroughly first!
Installation Support
We provide: ✓ Detailed installation guides (PDF)
✓ Video tutorials (step-by-step)
✓ Phone/WhatsApp support during installation
✓ Recommendations for professional installers
Professional Installation: If you prefer professional installation, we can recommend experienced installers across Singapore. Contact us for referrals:
- Phone: (+65) 8837 9791
- Email: enquiry.iworx@gmail.com
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Should I round up or down when measuring?
A: Be as precise as possible—measure to the nearest 0.5cm. Don’t round significantly. If you must round, round down for inside mount width, round up for heights.
Q: My window frame is not square. What should I do?
A: If the difference is less than 1cm, measure each dimension separately and we’ll accommodate. If more than 1cm difference, consider outside mount or contact us for advice.
Q: Can I measure in inches and convert to centimeters?
A: It’s better to measure directly in centimeters to avoid conversion errors. If you must convert: 1 inch = 2.54cm.
Q: Do I need to add extra fabric for fullness in curtains?
A: No—just measure the width you want covered. We automatically add appropriate fullness based on curtain style and fabric type.
Q: How far should curtains be from the floor?
A: Ideally 1-2cm above the floor (just clearing it). Anything more than 3cm looks too short. Never let curtains drag on the floor.
Q: Can I order curtains longer and hem them myself?
A: We don’t recommend this—custom curtains are made to your exact specifications with professional hems. Order the correct length from the start.
Q: What if I’m between two standard sizes?
A: Always order custom size for the best fit—that’s the whole point of custom curtains! Don’t try to make standard sizes work.
Q: Should I measure before or after painting/renovation?
A: Measure AFTER all renovation work is complete, including painting, flooring, and window frame installation. Measurements can change during renovation.
Q: Can you measure for me?
A: We don’t provide direct measuring services, but we can recommend professional installers who offer measurement services. Many include free measurement if you book installation with them.
Q: My ceiling/floor is not level. How do I measure?
A: Measure from the highest point (so curtains don’t drag or bind). If the slope is significant (>2cm), contact us for advice.
Q: What if I make a mistake?
A: Contact us BEFORE installing! If the error is ours (production/cutting), we’ll remake at no cost. If measurements were provided incorrectly, remake fees apply. We always review unusual measurements before production.
Need Help? We’re Here for You!
Free Measurement Consultation
Not confident about measuring? We offer FREE consultations to help:
✓ Review your measurements before you order
✓ Advise on inside vs outside mount for your windows
✓ Recommend the best curtain/blind type for your needs
✓ Help with tricky windows (bay, arch, corner, etc.)
✓ Answer all your questions patiently
Book a consultation:
- Call: (+65) 8837 9791 / (+65) 8093 8136
- WhatsApp: +65 8837 9791
- Email: enquiry.iworx@gmail.com
It’s FREE, and there’s no obligation to buy. We genuinely want you to get perfect results!
Downloadable Resources
📄 [Download Printable Measurement Worksheet (PDF)]
Print this and take it with you when measuring
📄 [Download Inside Mount Quick Guide (PDF)]
One-page reference for inside mount measurements
📄 [Download Outside Mount Quick Guide (PDF)]
One-page reference for outside mount measurements
📄 [Download Bay Window Guide (PDF)]
Specialized guide for bay window measurements
📹 [Watch Video: How to Measure for Curtains]
Step-by-step video demonstration
📹 [Watch Video: How to Measure for Blinds]
Blind-specific measuring tutorial
Ready to Order?
Once you’ve completed your measurements:
Option 1: Order on Shopee
[Button] Browse Curtains on Shopee →
Option 2: Order on Lazada
[Button] Browse Curtains on Lazada →
Option 3: Contact Us First
[Button] Send Measurements for Review →
MLV Home
The Perfect Finish for Every Window
📞 (+65) 8837 9791 / (+65) 8093 8136
✉️ enquiry.iworx@gmail.com
📍 19 Jalan Kilang Barat #02-03, Singapore 159361
This guide is provided free of charge to help you achieve professional results with your custom curtains and blinds. For personalized assistance, contact our team anytime.