VOGOL Custom Window Treatments Measuring & Buying Guide
Measurement Finder
Not sure how to figure out the right size? Select your product type and follow our guide — we'll walk you through every measurement so your order fits perfectly.
Drapery Measuring Instructions
Before placing your order, take a moment to measure accurately. All VOGOL drapery panels are custom-made to your specifications — the right measurements ensure a flawless result on the first order.
How to Measure Curtains — A Simple Guide
To achieve the best fit, measure the curtain rod rather than the window itself. For a full, elegant appearance, the combined curtain width should generally be 1.5–2× the rod width. Mounting the rod higher and wider than the window also helps maximize light and creates the illusion of a larger space.
- Curtain Width: Multiply the rod width by 1.5–2 to determine the total finished width. If ordering two panels, divide the total width evenly between both panels.
- Finished Length: Measure from the top of the installed rod to the desired finished position, whether floating slightly above the floor, touching the floor, or puddling.
- Rod Placement: Install the rod approximately 6–8 inches above the window frame and extend it 6–12 inches beyond each side for better coverage and a more balanced look.
- Design Tip: A 1/2-inch floor clearance provides a clean tailored finish, while extra length creates a softer, more luxurious drape.
Use a rigid steel tape for the most accurate reading. Measure your rod from end to end, including any decorative finials you plan to cover with fabric. Then decide how high above the window frame to mount the rod — positioning it closer to the ceiling adds vertical drama and makes the room feel taller.
Record both dimensions: total rod span and desired drop from the top of the ring or pocket to your chosen hem point (sill, floor, or puddle).
Fullness controls how gathered your panels look when closed. VOGOL recommends the following fabric-to-rod ratios by heading type:
- Ripple Fold / Grommet: 1.8× – 2.0× rod width
- Pinch Pleat: 2.0× – 2.5× rod width
- Rod Pocket / Soft Top: 1.5× – 2.0× rod width
Example: A 72-inch rod with pinch pleat headers needs panels totalling 144–180 inches of combined fabric width.
Choose Your Header Style
Pleated Header
- Delivers a structured, tailored silhouette suited to traditional and transitional interiors.
- Measure from ring to ring on your traverse rod, then apply your chosen fullness multiplier.
- Add 6 inches to your finished drop for header allowance and double-fold hem.
- Compatible with traverse rods, rings with clips, and drapery hooks.
Ripple Fold Header
- Produces evenly-spaced, continuous waves — the signature look of contemporary interiors.
- Requires an S-fold track; measure the usable track length, not the wall span.
- Standard fullness ratio is 1.8× to 2.0× of track length.
- Panels glide smoothly and stack into a compact bundle when open.
Grommet Header
- Metal rings thread directly onto the rod — no additional hardware needed.
- Measure bracket-to-bracket; grommets add approximately 1.5 inches above the rod center.
- Add that grommet offset to your finished drop measurement to hit your exact hem point.
- Works best with rods up to 1.5 inches in diameter.
Soft Top Header
- A relaxed, casual heading style that works with rod pockets, tab tops, or tie tops.
- Rod pocket: add the rod circumference to your finished drop to account for the pocket.
- Tab and tie tops: add 2 to 4 inches above the rod for the loop or tie length.
- Best paired with lightweight to medium-weight fabrics.
Header Style Comparison — Understanding Curtain Width by Header Type
| Header Style | How Width Is Measured | Suggested Fullness | Typical Stack Back |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pinch Pleat | The ordered width represents the finished sewn width of each panel. When purchasing a pair, divide the required total width equally between both panels. |
Double Fullness (200%) Triple Fullness (230–250%) |
Approximately 15–20% of the finished width. |
| Ripple Fold | The width entered at checkout equals the finished coverage along the track after the fabric forms consistent ripples. | 250% Fullness | Approximately 20–30% of the panel width. |
| Grommet | Measure using the fully extended panel width. For split-draw installations, divide the total width into two equal panels. | 200% Fullness | Approximately 20% of the panel width. |
| Rod Pocket Back Tab Tab Top |
Each panel is ordered by its finished flat width before gathering onto the curtain rod. | 200% Fullness | Approximately 15–20% of the finished width. |
Tip: Fullness affects how rich and elegant your curtains appear. Sheer and lightweight fabrics generally require more fullness, while heavier fabrics naturally create fuller folds with less fabric.
Not sure which header style is right for your room? Explore our Curtain Header Guide →
Scope of This Measuring Guide
This guide is intended for standard rectangular windows and custom-made curtains. Measuring methods may differ for bay windows, corner windows, arched windows, skylights, extra-wide openings, or other specialty installations. If your project falls into one of these categories, we recommend contacting our design team before placing your order to ensure the most accurate measurements.
Finding the Perfect Fit
How far you extend the rod beyond the window frame affects both light control and the perceived width of the window. Use the reference below to choose the right extension for your space.
Shades Measuring Instructions
Shades require precise measurements — a difference of even ¼ inch can affect operation. Always use a steel tape measure and measure each window individually.
Inside Mount Your Window Treatments When:
You want a clean, built-in look that shows off the window frame and trim.
Outside Mount Your Window Treatments When:
You want to maximize light blockage or make the window appear larger.
Not Sure Which to Choose?
Inside mount requires a minimum frame depth. Check our depth guide before ordering.
Measure the Window for Inside Mount
Measure the inside width of the frame at three heights: top, center, and bottom. Record the narrowest reading — this prevents the shade from binding.
Measure the height on the left side, center, and right side from the top of the opening to the sill. Use the longest measurement to avoid a gap at the bottom.
Enter your exact measurements when ordering. VOGOL applies the correct deduction for your shade type during production — you never need to subtract anything yourself.
Note on Deduction
VOGOL automatically deducts from your submitted inside-mount width to allow clearance for smooth operation. The amount varies by shade type:
Inside Mount Deductions by Shade Style
| Shade Style | Factory Width Deduction | Finished Height |
|---|---|---|
| Cellular / Honeycomb Shades | 1/4" deducted from the measured width | No height deduction |
| Roller / Zebra Shades | 1/4" deducted from the measured width | No height deduction |
| Roman Shades / Woven Wood Shades | 3/8" deducted from the measured width | No height deduction |
Note: Width deductions for inside-mount shades are applied during manufacturing to provide the proper installation clearance inside the window frame. Simply measure the exact inside opening and submit those dimensions—we will make the necessary factory adjustments before production.
Measure the Window for Outside Mount
For outside mount, you specify the exact finished size — no deductions are applied. Extend at least 1½" to 2" beyond the window opening on each side to reduce light gaps. Mount the bracket 2" or more above the frame for maximum blackout and visual height.
Recommended formula:
- Width: Window opening + at least 3" on each side
- Height: From your chosen mount point down to your desired drop
- For blackout performance, extend width by 4" or more per side.
- Higher bracket placement emphasizes ceiling height.
Pairing with a valance? Add the valance drop to your total height so the valance clears the shade when it is fully raised.
