How to Measure Your Windows for Made-to-Measure Blinds (and Get It Right First Time)

Getting the perfect blind starts long before you choose a fabric or style. It starts with a tape measure. Accurate measurements are the difference between a blind that looks tailor-made and one that lets in light at the edges or simply won't fit. The good news? It's straightforward once you know what to look for.

Here's everything you need to know before ordering your made-to-measure blinds.

What You'll Need

●     A metal tape measure (fabric or plastic ones can stretch and give inaccurate readings)

●     A pencil and paper to note down each window separately

●     A step ladder if your windows are high

Inside or Outside the Recess?

The first decision is whether you want your blind to sit inside the window recess or hang outside it (fixed to the wall or frame above). This affects how you measure.

Inside the recess gives a neat, built-in look and is the most popular option. Measure the width at the top, middle, and bottom of the recess using the smallest measurement to make sure the blind fits without catching. Then measure the drop from the top of the recess to the sill.

Outside the recess works well where the recess is shallow, or if you want to block more light. Measure how wide you'd like the blind to extend beyond the recess on each side, then add that to the total width. For the drop, measure from where you'll fix the bracket down to where you want the blind to end, usually just below the sill.

A Few Things to Watch Out For

Handles and locks — Check whether any window handles, locks, or trickle vents fall within the space where your blind will hang. With an inside-fit blind, you'll need to allow enough clearance so the blind can be raised fully without catching.

Bay windows — Each section of a bay needs to be measured individually, as the angles mean no two drops or widths are the same.

Velux and roof windows — These need to be measured differently. You'll need the model number from the frame itself, as Velux blinds are made to match specific window codes rather than raw dimensions.

Out-of-square windows — Older homes, in particular, can have windows that aren't perfectly square. Taking measurements at multiple points (not just the centre) helps catch this early.

Write It All Down

It sounds obvious, but always label each measurement clearly — "kitchen left," "bedroom front," etc. It's easy to mix up similar-sized windows when you're ordering several blinds at once.

Not Sure? We'll Measure for You

If all of this feels like a lot, don't worry! We offer a free home visit across Glasgow and the surrounding areas. One of our team members will come to you, take all the measurements, and help you choose the right blind for each room. No obligation, no pressure.

Get in touch to book your free consultation.