How to Measure Blinds for a Bay Window?

Bay windows are a lovely feature in any home, bringing light, views, and additional space. Measuring blinds in a bay window is a little tricky in relation to ordinary windows. With a little knowledge, you’ll get a perfect fit and match your décor and make the most of privacy and light control.

Step 1: Choose the Type of Blinds for Your Bay Window

Before you measure, choose blinds that fit your style and function:

Vertical blinds – perfect for large bay windows.
Venetian or roller blinds – ideal for a tone-on-tone, ultra modern style.
Roman blinds – inject softness and style.
Made-to-measure blinds – achieve a perfect fit in awkward corners.

Step 2: Gather Your Tools

You’ll need:

Steel tape measure (not cloth, since it is accurate).
A pencil and notebook.
Spirit level to achieve straight lines.

Step 3: Measure the Recess of Each Window Section

Measure the width in three places on each individual window panel in the bay unit (top, centre, bottom).

Mark the minimum dimension – this guarantees the blinds fit comfortably without abrasion.
Take the measurement of the fall/height from the recess top down to the sill. Take the minimum measurement.
Hint: Verify all numbers as a way of preventing costly mistakes.

Step 4: Allow for Clearance Between Blinds

When fitting multiple blinds in a bay, allow a minimum 1cm spacing between blinds. This does not allow blinds to overlap on up or down operation.

Step 5: Decide on Inside or Outside Mounting

Inside recess: Creates a neat, fitted look inside the frame.
Outside recess: Offers more coverage, ideal if your recess is narrow or uneven.

Step 6: Order Your Blinds

Provide blind sizes to suppliers, stating whether they are “recess measurements” (window space itself), or “blind size measurements” (finished blind width/height).

Final Check

Measure twice, order once. Bay windows are unusual sizes and angles, so you need to be accurate. Most suppliers offer a home-measuring service, often free, if you are in doubt.