When it comes to styling a room, there’s not much that can have as much impact as new curtains. Whether you’re moving into a new house or you want to transform your space, new curtains will inject both style and colour. Many people recommend made-to-measure curtains, but are they worth the investment? If you’re looking for an exact fit in a quality fabric with high-quality detailing, then the answer is yes. 

Discover the benefits of going bespoke and how you can ensure the perfect finish for curtains that are worth every penny. 

What are the differences between ready-made and made-to-measure curtains? 

Buying curtains usually means choosing between two types: ready-made and made-to-measure. 

Ready-made curtains are made to a set of standard sizes, based on some of the most common window dimensions. This can work well if your windows are a regular size, but if you have an unusual room layout or want your curtains to have a precise fit, ready-made may not be suitable for you. 

Made-to-measure curtains, on the other hand, are created to your exact specifications. You can state the width, drop and other features like heading style, lining and of course, fabric choice. With made-to-measure curtains, you’ll get an exact fit, with no gaps or unintentional pooling. The finish will be completely tailored to your home, giving you complete control over how your curtains look.

Why made-to-measure curtains are worth the investment

Choosing made-to-measure curtains for your home provides a luxury finish, with the flexibility to choose styles that best suit your home. Some of the benefits of made-to-measure curtains include:

• A perfect fit for your windows, giving a more polished finish. 
• Better insulation thanks to a snug fit and suitable lining.
• Long-lasting quality, with fabrics and finishes designed to last several years.
• Choosing your own style means being able to choose something timeless, avoiding being led by trends that may only last a couple of seasons.

With made-to-measure curtains, you’ll enjoy both custom sizing and tailored features, making your choices completely unique for your home.

Choosing the perfect made-to-measure curtains

When it comes to buying made-to-measure curtains, it’s important to get it right. This will not only save time, but also save money, ensuring you get it right the first time. Consider the following steps to help you make the right choices:

Assess your window type

Unfortunately, not all windows are made the same. From sash windows to bay windows and even French doors, homes come with windows in all shapes and sizes. Make sure you measure your windows carefully and double-check them to ensure your details are correct. 

Decide on the details 

Choosing made-to-measure curtains means getting the chance to decide the unique details that will make them truly your own. You’ll get to choose details such as:

Heading style

There are many heading styles to choose from, including pencil pleat, eyelet, double pinch pleat, tempo wave, double pinch pleat and flop top. Different styles of curtains work best with different types of windows, so look around for inspiration to help ensure you choose the best fit.

Lining

The lining you choose for your curtains is important, as not all spaces require the same type of lining. Blackout lining is ideal for bedrooms to help block out the early morning light, while thermal lining can add some extra warmth – perfect for older homes.

Length

Curtain length is up to individual taste. Curtains that just touch the floor offer a crisp, modern finish, while curtains that pool at the bottom can feel a little more luxurious. In bedrooms and spaces with short windows, you might want to consider curtain lengths that just reach the windowsill. 

Making these choices will impact the overall look of your curtains, so consider your options carefully.

Choose luxury fabrics for a high-quality finish

With made-to-measure curtains, you can have complete control of your fabric. Choosing heavier fabrics like velvet can create a more elegant, sophisticated look, while lighter fabrics can make a space feel fresh and airy. A patterned fabric adds some personality, while plain fabrics are more timeless – ideal for matching the rest of your decor. 

Ordering fabric swatches is the best way to see how different fabrics look in your home. This also gives you the chance to try them against different types of lighting, ensuring you pick the right choice. 

How to measure your curtains perfectly

Accurate measurements are vital to ensuring your curtains are the perfect fit for your windows:

• Don’t just measure the size of your window, consider the size of your pole or curtain track too.
• You’ll need to decide if your curtains should hang above the frame to enjoy some extra height or whether you want them to be level with your window frame. 
• To measure the drop, you’ll need to measure from the top of the pole/track and down to where you want the curtains to sit.
• Remember, even if you think all of your windows are the same size, you should measure each one individually in case of subtle differences. 

Our curtain measuring guide tells you everything you need to know about measuring curtains, helping you avoid your curtains catching or looking awkward due to incorrect measurements. 

Caring for your curtains to help them last longer

Investing in made-to-measure curtains is not just about buying the curtains themselves; it’s about taking care of them to ensure they last. Some top tips include:

• Dust your curtains regularly using a vacuum or a lint roller.
• If your curtains develop any marks, spot clean them quickly to stop stains.
• Clean your curtains regularly – check if they are dry clean only or can be hand-washed. Some curtains may also be machine-washable. 
• If you can, avoid direct sunlight to prevent fading. Using blinds alongside curtains can help with this. 
• Using a steamer can help get rid of creases and keep your curtains looking fresh.

Made-to-measure curtains are the ideal solution if you want curtains that are the perfect fit for your windows, in a style and fabric of your choice. Explore our made-to-measure curtains and take extra care when measuring to ensure a seamless fit for your home.