Ivory                                                                                                White

Best Practices for Measuring

There’s no exact formula for determining the correct measurement of length and width for lace curtains. One can, however, usually divide their selection into one of two eras: the 19th century or the 20th century.

In the 19th century (Federal, Greek Revival, Early-Mid Victorian and some Colonial Revival), window treatments were “fuller” with more gathering. Typically, the ratio of lace was 1½ to 2 times the width of the window opening. 19th century lace panels often hung well below the window sill, sometimes even pooling onto the floor, but usually they terminated near or on the baseboard.

20th century (Mission, Craftsman, Arts & Crafts, Colonial Revival, Bungalow, Art Deco and Mid-Century Modern) window treatments were hung much “flatter” with less gathering; the lace ratio in this instance was no more that 1½ times, and preferably 1 to 1¼ times lace to glass. 

The preferred length for this era is just touching the window sill, which lends a much crisper, modern appearance to the window treatment. Our seamstress will custom shorten any curtains (from the top, so as not to cut into the decorative border) for only $10/panel. She will keep the rod pocket and header, or just the rod pocket, if you wish. Please specify which you would prefer. If you are undecided which pattern and its respective length and width look best in your home, please request a loaner or two, and we’ll send them out straight away.

The simplest and cheapest way to hang your lace curtains is with a spring-compression rod, available at most hardware stores. Choose a white one, and it will visually disappear when tucked inside the lace. If you’re looking for something fancier, especially if you want to mount the curtains on the face of the woodwork, we suggest Rejuvenation, who makes a great set of inside and outside mount café rods in a variety of finishes. As many American windows are between 25″ and 30″ across, you can use a 45″ wide panel for full effect, or a 31″ wide panel or two 18″ wide panels (which actually wind up being about 36″ wide together).

Call or email we’re used to speaking with people who are standing on a step-ladder with a tape measure in one hand and telephone in the other. We’re delighted to spend as much time with you as you need!