Measuring Windows for Curtains Without a Tape Measure: A Step-by-Step Guide

Measuring a window for curtains without a tape measure can be a bit challenging, but there are a few methods you can use to get an accurate measurement.

Mason Jul 25, 2026
How To Measure for Curtains
How To Measure for Curtains

Measuring a window for curtains without a tape measure can be a bit challenging, but there are a few methods you can use to get an accurate measurement.

How To Measure for Curtains
How To Measure for Curtains

One of the most common methods is to use a ruler or a measuring stick to measure the width of the window, and then use a calculator to determine the length. However, this method can be time-consuming and may not be as accurate as using a tape measure.

How to measure your windows for drapes
How to measure your windows for drapes

Using a Measuring Stick or Ruler

A measuring stick or ruler is a long, straight object that can be used to measure the width of a window. To use a measuring stick or ruler, place it along the width of the window and read the measurement at the point where the stick or ruler is parallel to the window.

Measure Curtains Like a Pro | Fast, Accurate Guide
Measure Curtains Like a Pro | Fast, Accurate Guide

For example, if the window is 5 feet wide, you can place the measuring stick or ruler along the width of the window and read the measurement at the point where the stick or ruler is parallel to the window. You can then use a calculator to determine the length of the window.

Measuring the Length of a Window

Measuring the Curtain Height (Length)
Measuring the Curtain Height (Length)

Measuring the length of a window can be a bit tricky, especially if you don't have a tape measure. One way to measure the length of a window is to use a piece of string or a flexible measuring tape. Place the string or measuring tape along the length of the window and mark the point where it is parallel to the window. Then, use a ruler or a measuring stick to measure the distance between the mark and the starting point of the string or measuring tape.

For example, if the window is 8 feet long, you can place the string or measuring tape along the length of the window and mark the point where it is parallel to the window. Then, use a ruler or a measuring stick to measure the distance between the mark and the starting point of the string or measuring tape. This will give you the length of the window.

Using a Flexible Measuring Tape

How to Measure Windows for Curtains with an Easy Measuring Guide and Rod Tips
How to Measure Windows for Curtains with an Easy Measuring Guide and Rod Tips

A flexible measuring tape is a type of measuring tape that can be bent and shaped to fit around the window. To use a flexible measuring tape, place it along the width of the window and read the measurement at the point where the tape is parallel to the window. Then, use a calculator to determine the length of the window.

For example, if the window is 4 feet wide, you can place the flexible measuring tape along the width of the window and read the measurement at the point where the tape is parallel to the window. You can then use a calculator to determine the length of the window.

Using a String or a Piece of Cord

an image of a door with blue arrows pointing to the right and left side,
an image of a door with blue arrows pointing to the right and left side,

Another way to measure a window for curtains without a tape measure is to use a string or a piece of cord. To use a string or a piece of cord, place it along the width of the window and mark the point where it is parallel to the window. Then, use a ruler or a measuring stick to measure the distance between the mark and the starting point of the string or cord.

For example, if the window is 6 feet wide, you can place the string or cord along the width of the window and mark the point where it is parallel to the window. Then, use a ruler or a measuring stick to measure the distance between the mark and the starting point of the string or cord. This will give you the width of the window.

How to calculate fabric quantities for curtains - D&R Furnishers
How to calculate fabric quantities for curtains - D&R Furnishers
Learn how to measure for curtains with help from The Home Depot.
Learn how to measure for curtains with help from The Home Depot.
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How to measure your windows for drapes
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How to Measure for Curtains: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide
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how to measure the height and width of a window with measurements for each window opening
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How to Hang Curtains Plus the Best Budget Curtains

Measuring the Width of a Window

Measuring the width of a window is relatively easy, especially if you have a string or a piece of cord. To measure the width of a window, place the string or cord along the width of the window and mark the point where it is parallel to the window. Then, use a ruler or a measuring stick to measure the distance between the mark and the starting point of the string or cord.

For example, if the window is 3 feet wide, you can place the string or cord along the width of the window and mark the point where it is parallel to the window. Then, use a ruler or a measuring stick to measure the distance between the mark and the starting point of the string or cord. This will give you the width of the window.

Measuring a window for curtains without a tape measure can be a bit challenging, but there are several methods you can use to get an accurate measurement. By using a measuring stick or ruler, a flexible measuring tape, or a string or a piece of cord, you can accurately measure the width and length of a window, even without a tape measure.

Visual guide

How To Measure for Curtains
How To Measure for Curtains
How to measure your windows for drapes
How to measure your windows for drapes
Measure Curtains Like a Pro | Fast, Accurate Guide
Measure Curtains Like a Pro | Fast, Accurate Guide
Measuring the Curtain Height (Length)
Measuring the Curtain Height (Length)
How to Measure Windows for Curtains with an Easy Measuring Guide and Rod Tips
How to Measure Windows for Curtains with an Easy Measuring Guide and Rod Tips
an image of a door with blue arrows pointing to the right and left side,
an image of a door with blue arrows pointing to the right and left side,
How to calculate fabric quantities for curtains - D&R Furnishers
How to calculate fabric quantities for curtains - D&R Furnishers
Learn how to measure for curtains with help from The Home Depot.
Learn how to measure for curtains with help from The Home Depot.

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