The first step is to decide whether you want your curtains to hang from, whether you go for a curtain track or a curtain pole, both of which should be positioned 15cm (6 inches) above the window and extend 15-20cm (6-8 inches) either side.

You want to measure the total width of the track or pole, excluding the finials as these will not be covered. Then add a small amount on to allow for an overlap of your curtains.

When you are ready to measure, you have to make a decision about where you want the curtains to finish. The choices are whether to go to the sill, below the sill or to the floor. We suggest that:

• Sill length curtains finish 1.25cm (1/2 inch) above the sill.
• Curtains that fall below the sill should finish 15cm (6 inches) below or just above the radiator to stop heat loss.
• Floor length curtains finish 1 - 1.5cm (1/2 inch) from the floor (although you can create a shappy sheak look by having them puddled on the floor, but that is personal preference).

It is essential that you double and triple check your measurements as if you have measured incorrectly your curtains will not fit properly and if they are made to measure / custom drapes they cannot be changed.