Article: Decide if your rod is going to be at the frame, below the frame, or above the frame. If you're placing the rod below or above the frame, determine precisely how many inches or centimeters off-center the rod will be.  For longer curtains, the rod will probably be higher above the window. Rods can be placed anywhere from 6 inches (15 cm) to 12 inches (30 cm) above the window frame. It can help to make a light mark on the wall to determine where your rod will fall. Measure your window from the top of the windowsill to the bottom. Then, add any additional measurements based on rod placement for a rough window length. Later, you'll need to tweak this measurement as you determine curtain type. For example, say the length of the window is 40 inches (100 cm). You want your curtain rod a little higher than the frame, so add 6 inches (15 cm) to this to get a length of 46 inches (120 cm). The basic width is found by measuring the window from one pane to another. This rough measurement gives you a good starting point. You should slightly tweak the measurement based on which curtain type you choose. Your width is affected by the type of curtains you purchase. The following are general rules of thumb to calculate width depending on the curtain type:  Double the width for pencil pleated windows. Multiply the width by two for eyelet windows. Multiply the width by 1.5 for tab top windows. After you've figured out the length of your window, make sure you're positive about where you want your curtains to fall. Sill length curtains usually fall .5 inches (1.3 cm) above the windowsill. Below sill length curtains usually fall about 6 inches (15 cm) below the windowsill. Floor length curtains usually fall about .5 inches (1.3 cm) above the floor. Also, account for the placement of the rod. For example, say you want below sill curtains. Your window is 100 inches (250 cm) and the rod will be 6 inches (15 cm) above the frame. Add 12 inches (30 cm) to 100 inches (250 cm). Your curtain length should be 106 inches (270 cm). Windows generally have at least two panels. Check the average width of panels in your preferred style. This helps determine how many panels you need. For example, say your pencil pleated panel is usually sold with a width of 40 inches (100 cm). If your window's width is 60 inches (150 cm), you need to order two panels.
What is a summary of what this article is about?
Determine rod placement. Measure your window's length. Measure the basic width. Calculate your width based on curtain type. Calculate your precise curtain length. Decide how many panels to order.