How to Measure for Blinds & Shades

Welcome to our easy guide to measuring for made-to-measure blinds and shades.

Inside Recess or Outside Recess

– Which Should I Choose?

Before measuring, you’ll first need to decide whether an inside recess fit or outside recess fit is best for your window.

Both options work well, depending on your window style, room needs, and the look you’d like to achieve.

Choose an Inside Recess Fit When:

Your window recess has enough depth to accommodate the blind.
You prefer a neat, streamlined look with the blind sitting neatly within the recess.
You’d like to highlight attractive window frames, trims, or sills.
You want the blind to sit flush with the wall without projecting outward.
Your recess sides are square and suitable for fixing brackets.
Your property has fairly straight, even window openings.
A protruding sill makes outside fitting less practical.

Choose an Outside Recess Fit When:

The recess is too shallow for an inside fit.
The window opening is uneven or not perfectly square.
You’d like to cover unattractive frames or outdated trim.
Better blackout performance is important.
The recess is not suitable for fixing brackets.
Privacy is a priority.
You’d like the window to appear taller or wider.
You want the blind to stack above the opening when raised, keeping more glass visible.

Helpful Video Guides

Measuring for Inside Recess Fit

Measure the Depth

Measure the depth of the recess at the top of the window opening. This ensures there is enough room for brackets and headrail installation.

Different blind types require different minimum recess depths.

Measure the Width

Measure the width in three places:

Top
Middle
Bottom

Use the smallest measurement when ordering.Round down to the nearest 3cm or 1/8 inch.

Measure the Drop

Measure the drop in three places:

Left
Centre
Right

Use the largest measurement when ordering.The overall drop includes the headrail.

Width Deductions Note:

To ensure smooth operation inside the recess, please enter the size after applying the recommended deduction for your chosen product type.

Side Gaps Note:

Small side gaps are normal on many blind styles. This allows the blind fabric or slats to raise and lower smoothly without rubbing against the recess. These clearances are part of normal product design and help ensure smooth operation.

For Roman Shades, Headrail Width = Ordered Width
For Bamboo Shades, Fabric Width = Ordered Width
For Roller Shades and Zebra Shades, Fabric Width = Ordered Width - 1 1/2 inches
For Cellular Shades and Venetian Shades, Fabric Width = Ordered Width - 1/4 inch

Inside Mount Requirements for Different Blinds with Example (unit: inches)

Blind Type	Window Recess Width	Deduction	Ordered Width	Fabric / Slat Width	Approx. Side Gap
Roman Shades	27 3/8"	3/8"	27"	27"	Minimal
Bamboo Shades	27 3/8"	3/8"	27"	27"	Minimal
Roller Shades	27 3/8"	3/8"	27"	25 1/2"	3/4" each side
Zebra Shades	27 3/8"	3/8"	27"	25 1/2"	3/4" each side
Cellular Shades	27 3/8"	1/4"	27 1/8"	26 7/8"	3/4" each side
Venetian Blinds	27 3/8"	1/4"	27 1/8"	26 7/8"	3/4" each side

Inside Recess Tips:

Check the recess depth before ordering.
If depth is limited, consider an outside recess fit instead.
Ensure the recess sides or lintel are suitable for secure fixing.