How To Calculate Fabric For Bedroom Curtains? 4 Useful Things!

How to calculate fabric for bedroom curtains?

Well, that depends on the type of curtain that you are about to make.

How to calculate fabric for bedroom curtains

Well, based on my experience in making curtains, I have learned that each type of curtains has its calculations needed.

Since curtains come in different types such as pleats, regular drop-down, roman shades, and more.

I remember having my share of troubles when it comes to measuring curtains.

After making different types of curtains, I realized that they all measured differently.

As to make it more specific, the fuller you want the curtains and the wider or taller you want your curtains to be, the measure will also vary.

You’re probably wondering right now which one is the best for you.

Don’t worry as we’ll tackle most of it here.

Although there are some things you might want to consider at first in calculating the right measurements that your curtain needs.

 

Things To Consider To Calculate Fabric For Bedroom Curtains

So,  how to calculate fabric for bedroom curtains?

It is very simple as you will only need a measuring tape, a calculator and a pencil.

But before we jump right to measure, here are some factors to consider when calculating fabric for curtains.

 

#1. Window size

The main factor to affect curtain measurement is the window.

You will need to base your measurements on the window’s dimension.

The wider your window, the wider the fabric you are going to need.

We’ll talk about it more at the steps in calculating the right amount of fabric that you’ll need.

 

#2. Curtain length

Curtain length will depend on your preference and the same goes for your window length also.

You might want to consider the curtain’s bottom right at the window sill, a foot below the window sill, or the curtain brushing the floor length.

 

#3. Curtain width

When it comes to curtain width, this will depend on the type of curtain especially the pleated ones.

If not, the fuller it may be.

You might want the standard fullness, deluxe, or the maximum fullness of a curtain that has its respectful measurements.

 

#4. Hanging type

Since we are going to hang curtains, the style of hanging might affect the fabric needs too.

If you decide to go for a pocked rod, you might want to consider adding a few inches to the top.

If you want to use curtain hooks instead, you’ll just have to make holes for the hooks.

 

The Standard Measurement For Curtains

While you ponder on the different factors that affect the calculation, there is a standard calculation for it which the factors affect.

Nevertheless, here are the steps in calculating the right measurements for your curtain.

 

#1. Measure the window

The first thing to do is find the window’s dimension.

Both length and width are necessary as I’ve mentioned above these will be the base numbers.

For example, we have a 48 inches wide and 36 inches tall window with a curtain rod 6 inches above the window.

 

#2. Curtain Fullness

The following are curtain widths according to the most used curtain types.

  • Flat curtain panels = 1x
  • Eyelet curtains =1.35x
  • Gathered headings=1.8x
  • Pencil pleat =2x
  • Wave curtains =2.2x
  • Deluxe fullness =2.5x
  • Maximum fullness =3x

 

#3. Curtain length

Now that you have decided on the width, let’s calculate the length next.

Since you already have the window length and the distance between the window, add them up to find the length required.

 

#4. Allowance

Aside from getting the window’s dimension, it is a must to give allowances.

The purpose of allowances is for your hems and edge finishing.

You might consider getting a header and for how wide a hem should be.

Whether you will be using a pocked rod or a curtain hook.

For the sides, add a total of 5 inches for a double folded 1-inch hem.

Next is to add the same for the top and bottom.

But if you decide to make a pocket rod curtain.

Add 5 more inches to make up for the rod pocket.

 

#5. Complete formula

If you are confused about what you’ve read, let’s make it simpler shall we?

Fabric Width = (Window width in inches * fullness) + (Allowance of 5”)

Fabric Length = (Window length in inches + distance of rod from window + 5” allowance + ( optional) 5” top header + (Additional length from bottom of the window)

 

Example:

For example, we have a window that is 48″ wide and 36″ tall. With a 6 inches rod distance from the window frame.

We will be making a pocket rod curtain at deluxe fullness which length is by the window sill. How much fabric would we need?

Given:

Window width = 48” ; Window length = 36” ; Rod distance = 6” ; Fullness = 2.5x

Solution:

Fabric width = (Window width in inches * fullness) + (Allowance of 5”)

= (48*2.5) + 5”

Fabric width = 125in or 10.42ft

Fabric Length = (Window length in inches + distance of rod from window + 5” allowance + (optional) 5” top header + (Additional length from bottom of the window)

= 36” + 6” + 5” +5”

Fabric length = 47in or 3.92ft

 

Conclusion

Knowing how to calculate fabric for bedroom curtains will save you the resources and materials available at your disposal.

Knowing how much you will use, will save you money as well.

Just know which ones are best for every type of curtain.

So whether it is for your decoration or business, it is really helpful to know the right measurements to be more profitable.

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