Q: How do I get a quote?
A: Getting a custom curtain and blind making quote is easy! All you need to do is fill in our custom making forms, and one of our Customer Service team members will get back to you as soon as possible! You can find the custom curtain making form here and the form for custom blind making here.

Q: I'm not quite sure how to measure my windows properly, how do I go about this?
A: For curtains, the most important measurements that we need are the the width of your existing or intended track, and the finished length (or intended length) of your curtain measuring from the track, down. You may provide your window measurements, however these are not the correct finished measurements. We can help you decide on your finished measurements based on the information you provide, however it is up to you to decide on the finished measurements of your track and curtain lengths.

For roman blinds, the measurements we need are the intended finished width of the blind, and intended finished length of the blind (measuring from where you would like the blind to sit on the wall or in the frame). You can provide your window measurements, however these are not the correct finished measurements. We can help make suggestions on the finished measurements based off the information you provide, however it is up to you to make the final decision on the finished measurements.

We have great blog posts available with all the information on things you need to consider when you are measuring your windows, and you can find these here and here.

Q: What does it mean when you are asking for the "make to" width and height?
A: Great question! The "make to" measurements are often different from your window measurements, and will be the measurements we will use to make your curtains, so these are very important!

For curtains this means the width of your track, (or intended track) and the finished drop length of your curtain (including puddling if you would like some). We do not need the measurement of your curtain lying flat, and we will automatically add the required amount of fabric for hemming in our quotes.

For face fixed blinds, this means the finished width of your blind, and the finished length of your blind, including the height in which you would like it to sit above your window, and how far past the architrave you would like it to sit. We will automatically add the required amount of fabric for hemming in our quotes.

For top fixed blinds, this means the exact measurements of the inside of your window frame as the blind will sit inside of frame. We will automatically add the required amount of fabric for hemming in our quotes. 

We can make suggestions on these finished measurements based on the information you provide if you are unsure, however it is up to you to make the final decision.

Q: What are the different types of curtain headers that you offer?
A: We offer 5 different heading types. Pencil Pleat, Single Pleat, Inverted Pleat, French Pleat and Dutch Pleat. 

Q: What is the difference between each curtain headings, and which fabrics work best with them?

A: Choosing your curtain header style comes down to personal preference and practicality in your space.

Pencil Pleat - A very popular choice! The heading is sewn on flat, and then you pull the strings to how gathered you want them (or not at all - you can leave it flat). This is the most relaxed option of all of the options, and looks great with soft linens. Because the headers are flat, they stack back off of your window the least and this isn't the best if you don't have a lot of room for a bulk of fabric at the sides. Generally not recommended for thicker fabrics such as upholstery weight fabrics and velvets, but ultimately your choice. This is calculated at 1.50x - 2x fullness on average, depending on the type of look you are after.

Single Pleat -  Offers a relaxed look whilst having the structure of a sewn pleat, and doesn't distract or distort a print or pattern if one is in your chosen fabric. It also is the most efficient in terms of stacking your fabric back. This is our recommended curtain header for thicker fabrics such as velvet.

Dutch Pleat - Also know as Double Pleat. A traditional look whilst still remaining contemporary. Gives the illusion of a full curtain without requiring too much more fabric. Suitable for most fabrics, but we would not recommend using very upholstery fabrics.

French Pleat - Also know as Triple Pleat. This is a more formal, traditional pleat. Perfect if you are after a very full and luxurious looking curtain, and great for expansive spaces. Please note this option is calculated at 2.20x fullness so does require more fabric. Not suitable for very thick fabrics.

Inverted Pleat - A popular, classic tailored look. This creates uniformed folds and stacks back neatly. Suitable for most fabrics, but consideration is needed when choosing a patterned fabric as the pleats can distort the patterns and disrupt the pattern match.

Q: What is a 'Hooking Position and how do I measure it?
A: The hooking position is the measurement we need to ensure that the hooks of your curtains are popped into the right place so your curtains sit correctly on your track and rods. This is especially important for sewn pleats as the hooks are a bit tricky to adjust. 

If you have a standard track that is covered by your curtains, measure from the top of the track to the bottom of the hole in the glide that the curtain hooks into.

If you have a decorative rod where the curtain sits below, measure from the bottom of the rod to the bottom of the hole in the glide that the curtain hooks into.

Q: What is puddling, and do I need it?

A: Puddling is an extra allowance on the length of your curtains. This helps to soften the look of your curtains, and disguises from any natural movement there may be overtime. We always recommend adding puddling when using linen as it does naturally drop and shrink in the humidity. Our recommended amount of puddling is 3 - 10cm, but this is personal preference and some customers prefer more.

Q: What are the different types of linings that you offer and what are the differences between them?

A: We have a range of different linings available that are all great depending on your needs. They are:

Standard Polycotton Lining - A plain weave polyester/cotton blend, helps to protect your curtain fabric against the elements. Often used with fabric that requires added fullness and to improve the drape of the curtain. This does not block out any light but has some insulation and energy saving properties.

Thermal Lining - The most popular choice. Features a single layer of Supersoft Suede coating and will produce a soft, filtered light for areas that do not require total light control. This lining blocks out 45% of light and has insulation and energy saving properties.

Blackout Thermal Lining - Great in bedrooms! Features multiple layers of Supersoft Suede coating and is essential when total light control is required. This lining blocks out 99% of light and has insulation, energy saving and sound reduction properties.

Triple Weave Linings - A superior curtain lining choice if you’re looking for all-round functionality. This fabric construction differs from other lining as it’s three cleverly interwoven 100% polyester layers, one of which is a black layer woven into the middle, rather than a single coated layer. It is 90% blackout and offers great insulation and drape. Available in a range of colours, but please note that its use does incur and extra charge in a custom made order.

Check out our blog post all about linings here.

Q: What is Bumph, do you offer this and can I use it as a lining?
A: Bumph is a 100% cotton interlining with a similar texture and feel to flannelette, and is used as an extra layer in between your curtain fabric and chosen lining. It cannot be used as a lining on its own. 

Bumph is great to help provide an extra layer of insulation, which is particularly useful in colder parts of the country, and can also help to give your curtains a thicker and fuller looks, if that is what you are after!

We can make your custom curtains with a Bumph layer, but this does incur extra costs. 

Q: Are all of your fabrics suitable to use for curtains and blinds?

A: For the most part, yes, but there are some things to consider.

The lighter the fabric, the softer and more floaty it will drape and appear. Heavier fabrics will have a much more structured and stiffer appearance. It is personal preference, but if you are unsure, feel free to get in touch with us and we can make suggestions for fullness and pleat types depending on your fabric choice.

Please note: Velvet is not suitable for roman blinds.

Q: Do you sell curtain tracks and rods?

A: Yes! We can supply you with anything from Vanda's extensive curtain rod and track range. 

There are a lot of different things to consider, so we highly recommend checking out our Curtain Tracks and Rods Handbook for all the best information, tips, and a look at the range.

Please note: Tracks and Rods are also custom made to order and so these will also have their own lead time, and often arrive at different times to your curtains and blinds.

Q: Can you alter the Ready to Hang Range?

A: Yes we can, but this will be charged out as a custom made order. 

Q: Do you offer a full measuring and installation service?

A: We do not offer a measuring or installation service. Our curtain and blind making service is a DIY service, based off your measurements. 

If you are looking for this full service, we would be happy to suggest a couple of wonderful Auckland based curtain makers who will be able to help you out with this.

If you are Auckland based and ordering a track/rod that needs installing, we can help you arrange this through Vanda. Installation charges do apply and must be paid in full before installation.