How to Measure for Blackout Curtains?

For individuals who are light-sensitive or work at night, blackout curtains are a fantastic option. They block off all outside light and create a darker environment. However, you must carefully measure your curtains before putting them for the greatest effects.

So, let’s look at how to measure blackout curtains.

How to measure for blackout curtains?

To determine the size of a blackout curtain, you must first determine the size of the window. Then, take measurements of the window frame’s height and breadth. At least six or eight inches on each side should be added to the curtain’s length and height. As a result, it will completely cover your window.

It is critical to measure blackout curtains correctly. Because if the measurements are incorrect, the blackout curtains may not perform as intended. To measure blackout curtains, follow these steps:

  • First, measure the length of the curtain rod from the top of the rod to the floor.
  • Then, determine the window’s length. After that, measure the length of the window on both sides. Make a note of the one that is the longest.
  • The next step is to determine the size of your window. It will serve as the foundation for the curtain’s breadth.
  • Add 5 to 8 inches to the length and height of your window after measuring all sides. In the case of width, multiply 2.4 inches by the width of your window frame. This is where you’ll take your final measurements.

And that’s how you’ll be able to choose the size of your blackout curtains. Keep in mind that the lengths and widths of the measurements should be greater than the window’s length and width.

What length blackout curtains should I use?

Blackout curtains, unlike other types of curtains, must extend beyond the window frame. Otherwise, it will not be able to keep light out of your room. That is why your blackout curtains should be as long as possible.

At least 4 to 5 inches should be added to the length of the window frame. If you just want a hanging curtain, increase the length by 2 to 3 inches. It is, however, not advised.

Use blackout curtains that are at least 8 inches bigger than the window frame for best effects.

What is the ideal width of blackout curtains?

The blackout curtains should be as broad as possible. They must be broader than the frame of the window. Blackout curtains work great if they become single-paneled because they block out sunlight.

Single paneled curtains will fully cover the window with no gaps. As a result, full darkness will be ensured. The width of a conventional blackout curtain must be 2 to 2.5 times the window frame’s width.

For instance, if the window frame is 4 feet wide, the curtain should be at least 10 feet wide.

Should the blackout curtains be able to touch the ground?

This question has no definitive solution. It all relies on your tastes and the design of your space. Keep in mind, though, that floor-to-ceiling drapes are superior at totally filtering out the light.

If you don’t want any unnecessary barriers between your curtains and the floor, use floor-to-ceiling curtains. Because these curtains are so lengthy, they block out any light. As a result, if you want a completely darkened room, this is the sort of curtain to use.

Keep in mind, though, that floor-to-ceiling drapes are difficult to keep clean. They are more prone to dust and become filthy more often.

So, the bottom line is that you may use floor-to-ceiling blackout curtains if they complement the concept and decor of your space.

What are the different sizes of blackout curtains?

Because blackout curtains are used to prevent sunlight, there aren’t many sizes available. All of the sizes fully enclose the window. The following are the available sizes:

length of apron:

These drapes hang just below the windowsill. These curtains have a standard width of 42 or 52 inches. They have a length of 63 inches.

Long:

Long blackout curtains were draped from the windowsill to the floor. They are typically 83 to 84 inches in length with a normal width of 42 or 52 inches.

Extra-Long:

The floor is covered by extra-long drapes. They are normally between 93 and 95 inches long. They have a standard width of 42 or 52 inches.

How can you manufacture blackout curtains at home?

If you’re on a tight budget but still want blackout curtains, you could make your own. They do an excellent job of suppressing light and creating a gloomy mood in your space. And constructing blackout curtains may be less difficult than you think.

Let’s have a glance at how you may construct your blackout curtains.

  • The first step is to obtain accurate window dimensions. Choose a fabric for the curtain as well.
  • Gather all of the additional items you’ll use for the project. Sewing needles, threads, blackout liner, measuring tape, scissors, and iron are all required.
  • Trim the blackout liner and fabric to your exact proportions now. When cutting, remember to leave enough room for the hemlines.
  • Iron all of the lining and textiles once they’ve been cut. It will assist you to sew by removing any creases. Also, fold and iron the hemlines to achieve neat folds.
  • After you’ve finished ironing, you may begin stitching. Begin by stitching the fabric to the blackout lining. Sew all of the hemlines after that.
  • Afterward, iron all of the curtains before hanging them in the window.

So, with just a few easy steps, you can build your blackout curtains.

What is the finest blackout curtain fabric?

A blackout curtain’s function is to keep the sunshine out. As a result, unlike conventional curtains, blackout curtains need the use of heavier textiles. Blackout curtains are also available in a variety of fabrics.

Here are some possibilities for you to consider:

Fabric made of microfiber:

This cloth is quite good at shielding the sun. It can block out about 90% of the light from the outside. Microfiber textiles have become one of the popular alternatives for blackout curtains as a consequence.

Fabric: Polyester

Polyester materials are a wonderful choice if you want something that will last. These are very strong and long-lasting. Polyester textiles are also very simple to clean.

Fabric that is flame retardant:

This cloth is ideal for use in a business setting. It has a high level of fire resistance. As a result, it might increase the fire safety of your workspace.

Fabric that is thermally insulated:

You may use this sort of cloth if the temperature is a concern. Multiple layers of thermal insulating materials are woven into thermally insulated textiles. As a consequence, they influence your room’s temperature.

What is the method of assessing blackout shades?

Blackout shades work well as a substitute for blackout curtains. You must carefully measure your blackout shades to get the most out of them.

Choose whether you want your shades to be installed inside or outdoors. After that, begin measuring properly. The length and width of the window frame should be measured. Depending on your mount type, it might be inside or outside width.

Take the top width, the bottom width, and the center width. Here’s where you’ll finalize the smallest measurement. Make measurements of the window frame from the left, right, as well as in center in the same way. Decide on the biggest measurement.

For solar or outdoor blinds, however, you just need to estimate the top. Add an appropriate distance on both sides if you wish to put your covers on the exterior.

How do you take measurements for blackout blinds?

Blackout blinds, like shades, are another option for your space. Although there are a few distinctions between blinds and shades, measuring for both is identical.

Your blinds may be mounted both within and outside the window frame, much like blackout shades. You’ll need to calculate the width and height three times in this case.

Take the dimensions at the bottom, top, and center for width. These must be on the left and right, as well as in the center, for length.

If you’re doing an exterior mount, you’ll need to increase 2 to 3 inches to each side. You may measure your blinds this way.

The dimensions of the blackout curtains are really important. Because if you don’t measure them precisely, they may end up being lower than the window as well as allowing light to pass through. As a result, double-check your curtain measurements.