{"id":6348,"date":"2026-02-27T14:45:02","date_gmt":"2026-02-27T14:45:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.vanessaarbuthnott.co.uk\/blog\/?p=6348"},"modified":"2026-02-27T14:45:02","modified_gmt":"2026-02-27T14:45:02","slug":"how-to-measure-curtains-for-bay-windows","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.vanessaarbuthnott.co.uk\/blog\/how-to-measure-curtains-for-bay-windows\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Measure Curtains for Bay Windows"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Bay windows are one of the most beautiful architectural features in a home. They draw the light in, frame the outside world beyond, and add depth and character to your sitting room or bedroom. And if you dress it in the right way, your bay window can truly become the heart of your home.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

If you\u2019re wondering how to measure curtains for bay windows, you\u2019ve come to the right place. Here at Vanessa Arbuthnott Fabrics, we understand that bays can feel a little more complicated than a straightforward window \u2013 but with a tape measure and our bay window curtain measuring tips to hand, the process becomes much easier! Check out our step-by-step guide below to help you measure your bay windows with confidence.<\/span><\/p>\n

Our bay window curtain measuring tips<\/strong><\/h2>\n

1) Start with the right pole or track<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Before you start measuring, you need to decide whether you\u2019re going to use a curtain pole or track. If your interior style is more traditional, then we recommend opting for a handcrafted pole; but if you\u2019re after something more modern and understated, a discreet track could be the way forward.<\/span><\/p>\n

We always recommend fitting your pole or track before ordering your curtains. It should ideally sit around 15cm above the top of your window to let as much light in as possible, and extend around 30cm beyond the outer edges of the bay to allow for \u2018stack back\u2019; the space your curtains require when fully open. Without this extra width, your curtain fabric can crowd the glass and steal valuable daylight.<\/span><\/p>\n

2) Measure the width of the bay window<\/strong><\/h3>\n

When measuring curtains for bay windows, it\u2019s important to approach the bay as a series of straight sections rather than one continuous curve. Start by standing back and identifying each flat section of the bay. Measure the width of each one individually, working from one end of the bay to the other, and making a note of every measurement as you go. It\u2019s surprisingly easy to forget which is which!<\/span><\/p>\n

If you\u2019ve got a curtain pole in place, measure the full width of the pole itself (excluding decorative finials). But if you have a track then you need to measure the complete length of it, including any overlap in the centre.<\/span><\/p>\n

At this stage, it\u2019s also helpful to note down the overall width from one end of the bay to the other. This will ensure that your curtains meet beautifully in the middle and stack back neatly at the sides.<\/span><\/p>\n

3) Measure the drop (finished length)<\/strong><\/h3>\n

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Next, you\u2019ll need to measure the length of your curtains. There\u2019s two different ways to do this, depending on whether you have a curtain pole or track:<\/span><\/p>\n