Measure the window to install curtains

1. Using a measuring tape, measure the width from one outer frame to the other.

2. Measure the height in the same way.

3. Then complete these basic measurements, referring to the points below.

Curtains with folds
For curtains with folds.
1. Measure the exact width of the outer window frame.

2. Add 2" to 4" on each side (to cover).

3. Divide by the number of panels desired. That will give you the width each panel should have.

To add folds, if they’re not already in the fabric
1. Measure the exact width of the outer window frame.

2. Add 2" to 4" on each side (to cover).

3. Multiply the width by 1 ½" or 2".

4. Divide by the number of panels. That will give you the necessary fabric width for each panel.

Curtains extending to the floor
1. Measure from the floor to the inner rim of the upper frame.

2. Add 3 ½" (because the pole is usually installed 4" from the window, but the curtains have to extend to ½" from the floor: 4" - ½" = 3 ½"). Caution: this measurement gives the length between the pole and the floor, which is appropriate for curtains that do not have a decorative strip. If the curtains have such a strip (above the pole), it should be added to your measurement.

Variations

• Curtains covering only the lower half of the window will give you privacy as well as outdoor lighting.
• Curtains wider or longer than the window will make the window look wider or taller.
• The curtains usually extend 4" under the window sill, to give a proportioned aspect.
• For greater convenience, it is preferable that the curtains not exceed the sill if the windows are recessed, often open or located above furniture.
• Frequently, an electric baseboard will be located under the window, so long curtains may seem hazardous. However, it’s possible to use an accessory that can be secured to the baseboard to isolate the curtains from it.
   

Curtain rods and poles can be functional, decorative, or a combination of both. They come in many lengths, diameters and styles. Some are designed specifically to overcome the problems posed by non-standard windows. Good quality rods are essential for drawing curtains with ease.
Important measures:

• The pole is usually installed 4" above the window frame. If there is 12" or more between the top of the window and the ceiling, position the pole halfway. If you have a low ceiling, you can create the impression of extra height by fixing the pole as near the ceiling as possible.
• It exceeds each side of the window frame’s outer rim by 2", not counting the pole’s decorative end.
• Always leave a minimum of 4" between the rod and the wall so the curtains can easily slide.
• Obviously, the thicker the rod, the more sturdy it will be.
• However, if your window is particularly wide or your curtains are made of heavy fabric, you may need to add another support bracket halfway along, to prevent the rod from bending.

Install the pole
1. Mark the location of the brackets.

2. Make sure the marks are leveled and symmetric to the window.

3. Drill a hole and insert the driller toggles that correspond to the screws and weight of the curtain.

4. Screw the brackets.
 

Wooden valances are perfect to hide the top of the curtains and to nicely frame the window. They add visual element to the room and complete window dressing. To make sure wooden valances are well integrated in your décor, some norms must be observed.
Important measures:

• To determine the latter’s width, add at least 1" to the width of the widest element to be covered by the valance. E.g.: if the valance covers a window without curtains, add at least 1" to the width of the window’s outer frame. If the valance is installed above the curtains, add at least 1" to the pole’s width.
• The valance anchorage should also be installed 1 ½" above the highest element to be covered by the valance (i.e., 1 ½" from the window frame, the pole or the decorative strip).
• Finally, the valance should be at least 1" deeper than the most protruding element to be covered.

All these additional spaces are necessary to ensure sufficient clearance between the valance and the other elements decorating the window.

Install the wooden valance
1. Mark the location of the anchorage for the wooden box. They should be spaced no more than 12" apart.

2. Make sure the marks are leveled to the window.

3. Drill a hole and insert the driller toggles that correspond to the screws and weight of the valance.

4. Screw the metal squares in the driller toggles.

5. Position the wooden valance onto the metal squares.

6. Centre with the window.

7. Screw the valance to the metal squares.