Calculate fabric for your curtains
Total Fabric Needed
8
yards (7.32 m)
Panels
3
Cut Length
96"
Brackets
3
Inputs
Result
Total fabric width = 60 × 2 = 120". Panels needed = ceil(120 / 54) = 3. Cut length per panel = 84 + 12 = 96". Total fabric = 3 × 96 = 288". Convert to yards: 288 / 36 = 8 yards.
Inputs
Result
Total fabric width = 48 × 2.5 = 120". Panels needed = ceil(120 / 54) = 3. Cut length per panel = 96 + 12 = 108". Total fabric = 3 × 108 = 324". Convert to yards: 324 / 36 = 9 yards.
Inputs
Result
Total fabric width = 96 × 2 = 192". Panels needed = ceil(192 / 54) = 4. Cut length per panel = 84 + 12 = 96". Total fabric = 4 × 96 = 384". Convert to yards: 384 / 36 = 10.67 yards.
Fabric needed = (Window width × Fullness ÷ Fabric width) × (Curtain length + Hem allowance). For a 60" window with 2x fullness using 54" fabric at 84" length: (60×2÷54) × (84+12) = 2.2 panels × 96" = ~5.5 yards per panel.
| Window Width | 2x Fullness | Panels (54" fabric) | Yards Needed (84" curtain) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 36" | 72" | 2 panels | 5.5 yards |
| 48" | 96" | 2 panels | 5.5 yards |
| 60" | 120" | 3 panels | 8 yards |
| 72" | 144" | 3 panels | 8 yards |
| 96" | 192" | 4 panels | 11 yards |
Fullness = total fabric width ÷ window width. Standard fullness is 2x (fabric twice as wide as window). Sheers need 2.5-3x for proper draping. Flat panels use 1.5x. More fullness = more elegant look but more fabric cost.
| Fullness | Look | Best For | Fabric Needed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.5x | Flat, modern | Linen, heavy fabrics | 50% more |
| 2x (Standard) | Classic pleats | Most curtains | 100% more |
| 2.5x | Full, luxurious | Sheers, lightweight | 150% more |
| 3x | Very full | Sheer panels only | 200% more |
Standard curtain lengths: Floor length (just touching floor), puddle (1-6" on floor), floating (½" above floor). Measure from rod to desired endpoint. Most common is floor length or ½" float for easy cleaning.
| Style | Length | Best For | Look |
|---|---|---|---|
| Float | ½" above floor | High traffic, pets | Clean, modern |
| Kiss/Break | Just touching floor | Most rooms | Classic, elegant |
| Puddle | 1-6" on floor | Formal rooms | Luxurious, dramatic |
| Sill length | ½" above sill | Kitchen, bathroom | Functional |
| Apron | 1" below sill | Cafe curtains | Casual |
Standard allowances: Top header 4" (rod pocket) or 8" (pinch pleat), bottom hem 8" for double-fold. Side hems 1-2" each. Total add 12-16" to cut length. Pattern matching may require extra fabric.
| Header Style | Top Allowance | Bottom Hem | Total to Add |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rod pocket | 4" | 8" | 12" |
| Tab top | 6" | 8" | 14" |
| Pinch pleat | 8" | 8" | 16" |
| Grommet | 6" | 8" | 14" |
Extend rod 3-6" beyond window frame on each side (6-12" total). This makes window appear larger and allows curtains to stack off the glass when open, maximizing light. Mount rod 4-6" above frame for height illusion.
| Window Width | Minimum Rod | Recommended Rod | Maximum Rod |
|---|---|---|---|
| 36" | 42" | 48" | 54" |
| 48" | 54" | 60" | 72" |
| 60" | 66" | 72" | 84" |
| 72" | 78" | 84" | 96" |
Add one full pattern repeat per panel for matching. If repeat is 24" and you need 4 panels at 96" each, calculate: 4 × (96 + 24) = 480" = 13.3 yards. Large repeats significantly increase fabric needs.
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Last Updated: Feb 13, 2026
This calculator is provided for informational and educational purposes only. Results are estimates and should not be considered professional financial, medical, legal, or other advice. Always consult a qualified professional before making important decisions. UseCalcPro is not responsible for any actions taken based on calculator results.