How to Measure for Custom Pinch Pleat Curtains: A Step-by-Step Guide

On this page

Measuring for Pinch Pleat Curtains Made Easy

Pinch pleat curtains are the epitome of window treatment elegance. With their structured folds and custom-tailored look, they can elevate any room from standard to spectacular. However, because they are custom-made, getting the measurements right is crucial. At Joydrape, we specialize in high-quality, custom-tailored linen and blackout curtains, and we want to ensure your curtains fit your windows perfectly.

Step 1: Install Your Curtain Rod or Track First

Always install your hardware before taking measurements. This defines the starting point for your width and height calculations. If you're hanging a rod, install it 4 to 8 inches above the window frame and let it extend 6 to 10 inches on each side to make your windows look larger.

Step 2: Measure the Width

Measure the exact width of your track or the length of the rod between the end caps. For pinch pleat curtains, you do not need to add extra fullness to this measurement. Custom makers like Joydrape construct the pleats into the fabric automatically, so we just need the exact width you want the curtains to cover.

Step 3: Measure the Height

For tracks, measure from the bottom of the track hooks. For rods, measure from the bottom of the curtain rings. Decide where you want your curtains to end:

Floating: 1/2 inch above the floor (clean, modern look).
Touching: Exactly hitting the floor (classic look).
Puddling: 2 to 4 inches of extra length pooling on the floor (luxurious, formal look).

Get Started with Free Fabric Swatches

Unsure about colors or textures? We offer 5 Free Swatches so you can see and feel our premium linen and velvet fabrics in your own home. Order your samples today at our Free Swatches Page.

Header style help

Before you order

Header decisions work best when you compare stack back, fullness, and measuring at the same time.

Back to blog

by Joydrape Designer Team on Jun 12 2026

Measuring for Pinch Pleat Curtains Made Easy Pinch pleat curtains are the epitome of window treatment elegance. With their structured folds and custom-tailored look, they can elevate any room from standard to spectacular. However, because they are custom-made, getting the measurements right is crucial. At Joydrape, we specialize in high-quality, custom-tailored linen and blackout curtains, and we want to ensure your curtains fit your windows perfectly. Step 1: Install Your Curtain Rod or Track First Always install your hardware before taking measurements. This defines the starting point for your width and height calculations. If you're hanging a rod, install it 4 to 8 inches above the window frame and let it extend 6 to 10 inches on each side to make your windows look larger. Step 2: Measure the Width Measure the exact width of your track or the length of the rod between the end caps. For pinch pleat curtains, you do not need to add extra fullness to this measurement. Custom makers like Joydrape construct the pleats into the fabric automatically, so we just need the exact width you want the curtains to cover. Step 3: Measure the Height For tracks, measure from the bottom of the track hooks. For rods, measure from the bottom of the curtain rings. Decide where you want your curtains to end: Floating: 1/2 inch above the floor (clean, modern look). Touching: Exactly hitting the floor (classic look). Puddling: 2 to 4 inches of extra length pooling on the floor (luxurious, formal look). Get Started with Free Fabric Swatches Unsure about colors or textures? We offer 5 Free Swatches so you can see and feel our premium linen and velvet fabrics in your own home. Order your samples today at our Free Swatches Page.

Soft neutral nursery curtains framing a bright window with gentle light and a calm sleep-friendly mood

Best Curtains for Nursery Windows: What Keeps the Room Soft, Safe, and Sleep-Friendly

by JoyDrape Team on Jun 11 2026

Use this buying guide to choose nursery curtains that balance blackout, softness, safety, and easy day-to-day use without making the room feel heavy.

Soft neutral bathroom curtains filtering daylight beside a bright bathroom window with clean tile and warm accents

Best Curtains for Bathroom Windows: What Handles Privacy, Moisture, and Daily Light Well

by JoyDrape Team on Jun 09 2026

Use this practical buying guide to choose bathroom window curtains that balance privacy, daylight, and moisture-aware fabric choices without making the room feel heavy.