How to Measure For Blinds
Measuring INSIDE a Recess Fitting
Make sure there aren’t any obstructions such as window handles or tiles that will get in the way of the blind. Measure the width from A to B and the length from C to D. Do this in several places, and use the smallest measurements.
Measuring OUTSIDE a Recess Fitting
Decide how much you want the blind to hang outside the recess. For roman blinds we recommend 15–20cm above the window. For roller blinds decide how far above the window you want the blind to hang. Allow about 5cm each side and 5cm at the bottom. Measure from E to F for width, and G to H for finished length.
How to Calculate the Amount of Fabric Needed
You need the size of your finished blind plus 6cm each side for seam allowances and 50cm for the top and bottom turnings. This gives you the cut drop length. For patterned fabric with multiple widths, make sure the pattern matches. Check the pattern repeat.
Divide the cut drop length by the pattern repeat and round up. Multiply by the whole number to get cut drop. This is for two widths blinds. We do not recommend making blinds larger than this.
Example:
- Cut drop measurement = 150cm (includes actual blind size plus turnings)
- Pattern repeat = 35cm
- 150cm ÷ 35cm = 4.2 (round up to 5)
- Multiply pattern repeat 35cm × 5 = 175cm
- For 2 widths, multiply 175cm × 2 = 350cm
- Therefore you will require 3.5m of fabric.
