What a made to measure curtain quote should include

Featured image: illustrative example.

What should a made to measure curtain quote include

A useful curtain quotation should identify each opening, the selected fabric and lining, the heading and finished dimensions, the track or pole, the operating method and the installation scope. It should also make the total, exclusions and current timing clear. Compare those details before deciding whether two prices cover the same result.

A curtain is an assembled treatment. The material you see is only one part of the finished installation, and a photograph rarely reveals the hardware or work behind it. A written, opening-by-opening specification helps turn a design idea into something both you and the installer can check.

Start with a room and opening schedule

Give every opening a simple label, such as lounge left window or main bedroom sliding door. Use those same labels on photographs, the quotation and the final specification. This is particularly helpful when several windows look similar but have different dimensions or access requirements.

For each one, record the practical aim: evening privacy, softer daylight, improved room darkening or a decorative finish. State whether the curtain must close across the glass. Stationary side panels and working curtains do different jobs, so they should not be compared as equivalent treatments.

Approximate dimensions can help start a discussion. Final manufacturing sizes and fixing positions should be confirmed at the measure. Tell the team about building work that could change floors, ceilings, reveals or furniture positions before those details are agreed.

Identify the fabric and lining precisely

A colour description such as warm white is not enough to distinguish materials. Ask for the selected fabric name or reference, colour and intended lining. Keep the approved samples or a clear record of them with the quotation.

Discuss the finish as well as the appearance. A patterned textile may require an agreed approach to how the pattern aligns across adjacent panels. If two rooms should coordinate, review their samples together rather than assuming that similar names will look identical.

For privacy or room darkening, ask what the chosen combination is intended to achieve. Lined does not automatically mean blackout. The specification should be clear about the material and the coverage around the window without promising a completely dark room from fabric alone.

Include the heading and the way the curtain opens

The heading shapes the folds at the top of the curtain. Ask which heading is being quoted, how the finished fullness will look and whether it suits the proposed hardware. The fabric, heading and hardware should be considered together.

Confirm whether the curtains will open from the centre or stack to one side. Discuss the available space for that stack and whether the open fabric will cover part of the glass, a doorway or a nearby cupboard. There is no single stack-back allowance that suits every material and opening.

If a blind is already fitted, use the curtain and blind clearance guide to prepare for the measure. The quote should reflect any additional track arrangement or fixing work that the combined treatment needs.

Make the hardware and fitting scope visible

Confirm whether the price includes the track or pole, brackets and other required fittings. Agree the visible finish, fixing position and operating method. If existing hardware is to be reused, have its suitability assessed rather than assuming it can carry or operate the new curtain.

Installation details can affect both the price and the outcome. Identify unusually high openings, difficult access or surfaces that need further assessment. Ask whether removal of existing treatments and making good are included, excluded or to be arranged separately.

If motorisation is proposed, request a clear description of the selected system, power arrangement, controls and maintenance access. Confirm compatibility with any existing home controls before ordering. A broad description such as smart curtain does not establish what will work together.

Compare the full cost and current timing

Place the quotations side by side and mark any difference in scope. Check whether the total includes installation and applicable VAT, and whether transport or access-related costs are separately stated. Ask for any optional items to be distinguishable from the base specification.

Confirm quotation validity, payment stages, material availability and expected manufacturing and installation timing. For an event or renovation deadline, state the date early and ask what can realistically be confirmed. Do not treat a general lead-time estimate as a reserved installation appointment.

Before approval, request the relevant care information and warranty terms. Ask what the handover will cover and how to report an adjustment or operating concern. These questions make the installed value easier to assess than a fabric-only price.

An example of a clearer comparison

Imagine two quotations for the same lounge. One includes working curtains, lining, a new track and professional fitting. The other covers decorative side panels on the existing pole. Both may be accurately priced, but the second will not deliver the same coverage or installation scope.

Bring the requirements into alignment first. Then compare the materials, workmanship, fitting details and total. The aim is a treatment that does the agreed job and is straightforward to use.

Frequently asked questions

Can I get a final price from a photograph

A photograph can support an initial discussion. A final quotation should reflect confirmed measurements, selections and installation conditions.

Should I order fabric before the measure

Agree the design and manufacturing requirements before committing to quantities. Discuss this with the curtain supplier so that fabric, heading and lining are planned together.

Is an expensive fabric always the best choice

The right choice depends on the room, desired effect, care requirements and budget. Review the complete installed treatment, including hardware and fitting.

What should I send with my enquiry

Include your suburb, the rooms, opening count, whole-wall photographs and your preferred timing. Explain whether you need curtains alone or a coordinated blind-and-curtain treatment.

Request a Quotation

ART Lifestyle supplies bespoke curtains alongside indoor blinds and other window solutions. Request a Quotation or call 083 298 1740 with your room schedule and location. Confirm measurement arrangements for the Garden Route, Somerset West and Helderberg, or Klerksdorp and the surrounding North West service area.