Made-to-Measure vs Ready Made Curtains

When it comes to dressing your windows, choosing the right curtains can have a huge impact on both the style and functionality of the room. Although ready-made options are now widely available, the difference between these and custom, made-to-measure curtains is more than just fit; it’s about quality, style and creating a home that feels truly tailored to you, without compromise.

The Perfect Fit

The fit of your curtains is important for visual impact as well as function. Curtains that are too short can appear ill-fitting or unfinished whilst curtains that drape on the floor can appear messy, as well as causing the curtain to eventually fray. Having gaps around your curtains can also let in unwanted light.

Whilst ready-made curtains can appear tempting, windows aren’t standardised whilst pole or track placements can also vary which can leave gaps. In period properties, floors aren’t always perfectly level and ceilings can slope which ready-made curtains will not account for, leaving gaps and highlighting any unevenness.

Made-to-measure curtains ensure the perfect fit in size, proportion and position. Perfectly fitting curtains ensure a clean looking finish as well as blocking or filtering light as intended- ideal for creating ambience in living spaces or restful darkness in bedrooms. There is also no risk of unnecessary wear and tear from dragging or straining meaning the curtains maintain their shape and quality and remain beautifully hung for years. Ensuring there are no gaps can also improve energy efficiency as well-fitted curtains help trap warmth during autumn and winter, while blocking excess sun and heat in the summer.

With years of experience working across a wide variety of homes, we’ve created a deep expertise in fabrics, detailing, and design. Our craftsmanship and eye for detail ensure every curtain is finished to the highest standard, while our breadth of experience means we can create bespoke solutions for any type of window or interior style.

Unlimited Choice

There is a limit to the choices available with ready-made curtains. The curtains are “off the rack” and you are not able to amend certain attributes meaning you may end up settling for curtains that are the wrong colour, an undesirable fabric or style.

With made-to-measure curtains the range of options are endless, meaning you can be sure to create the perfect curtains for your space. At Feather and Grey Interiors, we work with a range of premium fabric designers from high end such as Black Edition, Sanderson, Warwick and Romo to mid-range such as Ashley Wilde and Villa Nova. Options range from velvet and embroideries, to a range of prints and weaves as well as sheer which are great for open plan living to give a light and airy finish without compromising privacy. If you are looking for something eco-friendly there are a range of premium recycled fabrics to choose from as well.

Lining options can also be chosen, whether you are looking for standard, blackout or thermal. Trimmings are also widely available with made-to-measure curtains, giving you the freedom to add those all-important finishing touches – from elegant tassels and playful fringes to refined piping and bespoke tie backs. These details are what truly make your curtains one-of-a-kind, transforming them from simply functional into a personal style statement that reflects your taste and elevates your home.

Whether you love the understated luxury of linen, the drama of velvet or tassels, or the timeless appeal of cotton, bespoke made-to-measure curtains are certain to reflect your taste and perfectly fit your vision.

Longevity and Craftsmanship

Ready-made curtains are designed for mass volume sales which means the main focus is to create as much as possible in order to sell as much as possible. To keep costs low, manufacturers tend to use cheaper fabric blends (often polyester or thin cotton) that are quick to produce, but lack the durability and richness of premium fabrics. Poor quality fabric can lead to snagging, fading or losing shape over time.

Made-to-measure curtains are an investment. Expert tailoring and fabrics designed with luxury and quality in mind ensure the curtains have a much longer life span, holding their shape, colour and quality for years. With made-to-measure, each curtain is carefully cut, stitched, and finished by skilled makers. Seams are reinforced, hems are weighted, and pleats are precisely constructed — all details that give the curtain strength and longevity.

Bespoke curtains are designed not as a temporary solution but as a long-term feature of the home, with a lift span of generally 10 years plus. This makes them more cost-effective over time compared to replacing ready-mades every few years.

Statement of Luxury

Curtains frame the view to the outside and anchor the design of a room. Bespoke curtains elevate interiors instantly, creating a sense of refinement that is not possible to replicate with ready-made options.

Luxury is found not only in the curtains themselves, but in the entire journey of selecting them and the bespoke service itself. At Feather and Grey Interiors, we offer in-home consultations where we can discuss your needs and requirements as well as offering guidance on design.

Made-to-measure curtains give you access to an extensive selection of premium fabrics and linings. You can also opt for blackout or thermal finishes, which add weight, fullness, and a premium feel. Each curtain is professionally crafted, with perfectly neat hems and precise stitching for a flawless finish.

The exclusivity of made-to-measure curtains brings a true sense of luxury. Unlike mass-produced ready-mades, bespoke curtains are crafted to be completely unique to your home. At Feather and Grey Interiors, we can also create coordinating upholstery and soft furnishings—such as seat cushions and scatter cushions—to ensure every detail of your space feels tailored and luxurious.

Made-to-Measure vs Ready Made Curtains

While ready-made curtains may provide a quick fix, they can be a compromise on quality, style, fit and professionalism. Made-to-measure curtains, on the other hand, deliver a perfect blend of function, quality, and style with high quality fabrics and a premium service before, during and after the fitting. Made-to- measure curtains are an investment in your home’s comfort and aesthetic.

If you’re considering updating your window stylings this season, choose curtains that are as unique as your home. With made-to-measure, you’ll enjoy not only the perfect fit but the lasting satisfaction of luxury, bespoke design.

Schedule your free design consultation to discover how we can create your dream interiors.