How to calculate the width of curtains with pleats. Curtains, how long they should be: the determining factor for a stylish curtain. Let's get around without mistakes

Welcome to Furniture&Textiles. This article provides a little guidance on determining the width and length of your curtain. It must be remembered that one of the first and important steps when choosing curtains is determining the correct and exact sizes of future curtains.

To select the size of curtains, you first need to take measurements of the cornice, window, window sill and measure the distances from them to the walls of the floor and ceiling. To take more accurate measurements, use a metal tape measure. It holds its shape well and will allow you to take measurements without distortion.

It is advisable to have a tape measure at least 5 meters long, so that when measuring you do not measure long distances in parts. Now let's take a closer look.

How to take measurements to choose curtain size

To determine the size of the curtains, first of all, you need to determine what you will use and where this curtain rod will be located. This is important because we will take subsequent measurements from the curtain rod.

Take a tape measure and take measurements as shown in the picture. Don't forget to record all readings. Take measurements to the nearest centimeter.

1. Measure the length of the curtain rod. (In fact, this will be the width of the window plus the indents on both sides from the borders of the window onto which the cornice protrudes.) Measure the length of the cornice, within the limits - the curtain rod hangers, since the curtain fabric will not go beyond them. If you have a different type of cornice and the curtain can move along its entire length, measure the full size. Let's call this size the Working length of the cornice.
2. Measure the distance from the cornice to the floor
3. Measure the distance from the eaves to the top edge of the window sill

How to calculate the length of curtains

Calculating the length of curtains depends on three main factors:

Select the type of curtain length you want

To choose the right curtain length, you will need to determine what type of curtains you will use in your room. The following are the main types of curtains depending on their length

• Standard long curtains, the size of this type of curtain is equal to the distance from the cornice to the floor minus 1-2 centimeters
• Extended curtains, the size of this type of curtain is equal to the distance from the cornice to the floor plus 20-30 cm.
• Short curtains, the size of this type of curtains is equal to the distance from the cornice to the top edge of the window sill

Determine the type of fastening of curtains to the cornice

Another element that affects the length of curtains- this is a type of fastening of curtains to the cornice.

• If you use curtain fasteners in the form of loops or hooks, then the length of the curtain should be measured taking into account the height of this fastener. In the version with loop fasteners, the total length of the curtain fabric should be reduced by the size of the loops.
• If eyelet rings are used as fasteners, then the size of the curtain fabric should be reduced by the distance of the eyelets from the top edge of the curtains.

The figure shows curtain fasteners in the form of loops and in the form of eyelet rings

Thus, the total length of the curtain will be equal to the length of the curtain fabric plus minus the length of the curtain fastening element.

Consider the length allowances for curtains

When purchasing fabric for curtains, do not forget to provide allowances of 5 cm for the top and bottom edges of the curtains for processing and hemming the edges. The top and bottom edges of the curtains must be hemmed, otherwise the curtain fabric may unravel and become “shaggy.”

How to calculate the width of curtains

The width of the curtain depends on the width of the window and the length of the curtain rod. But in order to choose the right width of the curtains, you need to decide on the number and volume of ruffles on the curtains. The size of the curtain and the number of folds on it mainly depends on your preferences, but there are also accepted ones standards that allow you to make the curtains look neat and harmonious.

Choosing the width of the curtain depending on the type of fabric

There is a concept of curtain puffiness, which determines the number of folds on the curtain fabric along its width.

To calculate the total width of the curtain, depending on the type of fabric, the pomp factor (Kp) is used.

To determine the width of the curtain taking into account the type of fabric you need to:

Multiply the working length of the cornice by the pomp factor.

Fluff factor depending on fabric type

• For dense heavy fabrics Kp=2
• For medium density fabrics Kp=2.5
• For light, low-density fabrics Kp=3

In the photo there is a curtain made of thick corduroy Kp = 2

In the photo there is a medium density curtain Kp=2.5

The photo shows examples of light curtains Kp=3

Selecting the width of curtains depending on the number of folds

Here are some tips for choosing the width of the curtains and selecting the number of folds on the curtains

• When choosing drapery, consider the volume of the room in which the curtains will be used.
• Very lush curtains will look intrusive in a small room.
• You should not make a lot of folds on curtains with a pronounced pattern.
• Consider the style of the interior. Do not use lush curtains in minimalist and high-tech interiors

In the photo above and below are examples of curtains with a pronounced pattern

To determine the width of sliding curtains, you can use the following table

Using the table, you will get the required total width of the curtains. Keep in mind that the total width assumes the width of all canvases- after all, curtains can consist of several curtain panels.

In the case when you do not want folds on the curtain fabric at all, the width of the curtains will be equal to the length of the curtain rod.

Curtain width allowances

As a rule, curtain fabrics already have edge processing on the sides. But if you are using a different type of fabric, then do not forget about an additional 5 centimeters from each edge of the curtain for processing and hemming.

Choosing the length and width of curtains depending on the type of room

Choosing the size of curtains for the kitchen

Length and width of curtains in the kitchen. Since there are many sources of pollution in the kitchen - grease, steam and other delights, for easier care of curtains it is preferable to have curtains with a small area of ​​contamination. Curtains with a length up to the window sill and with a minimum number of folds in width are suitable for this criterion, optimally - smooth, read in width equal to the length of the cornice. Of course, if you are not afraid of more frequent washing of curtains, then you can choose long and more draped options.

• Curtains in the living room length.Classic floor-length curtains will look good in the living room. That is, the length of the curtains is equal to the distance from the cornice to the floor, plus or minus the fastening of the curtains.
• Curtains in the living room width. The width depends on the size of the room and the style of the interior. If the living room is in classical styles, then draping the curtains is acceptable, which means the width of the curtains can be calculated according to the table given above. If the interior is in a modern style, for example, the interior is in a minimalist style, then the width of the curtains should be equal to the length of the cornice - that is, smooth and without folds.

How to choose curtain sizes for the bedroom

Curtains in the bedroom are preferable with a voluminous texture that immerses you in peace.

• Bedroom curtain length. Elongated curtains with a length of 20-30 centimeters longer than the distance from the cornice to the floor are well suited.
• Width of curtains in the bedroom should provide maximum folds i.e. at least 2.5 times the length of the cornice.

How to choose curtain sizes for children's rooms

Curtains in a nursery should be easy to wash and not have excess areas for contamination. Active kids play everywhere, including near the windows.

• Curtain length for children's room. The optimal length would be to the floor without unnecessary overlaps, that is, the distance from the cornice to the floor.
• Width of curtains in the nursery It can be like in the living room without unnecessary folds, but you can also make more draped options, i.e. The width of the curtain is from 1.5 to 2.5 times the length of the cornice.

Video on how to choose curtain size

Finally, to secure the material, you can watch a video with a step-by-step plan for determining the size of curtains

The length of the curtains is perhaps the first thing you need to do before starting to sew this interior element. By the way, it is the design of the room and its intended purpose that are the determining factors in choosing the size of the curtain in relation to the floor. Before choosing the type you need, it is recommended that you familiarize yourself with all possible options.

Curtain length options

All curtains can be divided into two categories:

• those whose length is measured from the floor;
• and those for which it is calculated in relation to the window sill.

These two groups, in turn, can also be divided into several types. Curtains, the length of which is measured depending on its location in relation to the floor, can be divided into three categories, and those whose length is calculated depending on the level of the window sill into two. Below is a brief description of all five types and options for their placement. The question of the advantages and disadvantages of each specific type is also raised.

This style is often used to decorate either luxurious living rooms or cozy bedrooms. When selecting heavy fabrics with a strict or no pattern, an atmosphere of certain luxury and homeliness is created, in addition, dense material will hang beautifully and form folds on the floor.

The length of the canvas is calculated in such a way that there was from 10 to 20 cm of material on the floor. The illustration below shows what this option looks like in room design:

When choosing this option, certain difficulties are created when cleaning the room (since the material needs to be removed from the floor for complete wet cleaning), in addition, dust and dirt easily accumulate in the folds of the fabric located on the floor.

If you have pets in the house, additional difficulties arise. In addition to the fact that hair easily accumulates on the fabric, pets are often not averse to playing with what lies on the floor, which often causes the formation of puffs or even holes.

Curtains with a ledge 1 cm from the floor

This is a fairly common option, since it is considered classic and creates a certain rigor in the design of the room. An example of a room with this design variation is shown in the photo below:

When choosing curtains of this length, the ceiling height visually increases, which is especially valuable for rooms where they are located at a distance of less than 2.5 m from the floor.

It is easier to clean a room with such curtains than where they lie on the floor, but nevertheless, during cleaning the lower edge remains in the danger zone. Therefore, when performing wet cleaning, it is recommended to either remove such curtains or lift them and place them at a level of at least 5-6 cm from the floor.

Curtains extending 5 cm from the floor

This is the most common and simplest option, which is sometimes called a “standard curtain”. Firstly, this level of fabric hanging is the most practical, since when cleaning rooms there is no need to remove or lift the fabric. Moreover, since they are not in contact with the floor, they get dirty less and dust does not accumulate on them.

One of the most significant disadvantages of this type is that visually the ceiling height is reduced. This means that this type is acceptable for rooms where the distance from floor to ceiling is at least 2.5 m.

Curtains to the window sill

With this calculation, the material is hemmed so that the lower edge of the fabric does not reach the window sill by 1-2 cm. This type is practical, often used for kitchens or covering window openings in the bathroom.

It should be noted that this design option is rarely chosen for use in the living room or bedroom, since at this level of hanging materials the room may look unfinished, and the curtain itself may look poor. Sometimes it is acceptable to use this variety in a room where the window sill is used as an additional shelf, as well as in children's bedrooms where the windows are low.

Curtain length below window sill

This design option is often used for children's rooms, where the fabric cannot reach the floor. When calculating the material for sewing, the distance from the beginning to the end of the fabric is calculated so that the curtain hangs 10-15 cm below the window sill. This option is more practical, aesthetic and beautiful in relation to where the material does not reach the window sill.

It is also acceptable to use this type when closing a window opening in the kitchen. In the example illustrated below, there is no tulle, and the sewing material is coordinated with the color scheme of the entire kitchen.

In addition, if there are also tulles on the window in addition to curtains, then the former undertake to completely cover the latter. This means that if there is tulle on the window, then the curtain needs to be chosen longer, so the option up to the window sill will not be suitable.

To decide on the type and distance from the beginning to the end of the canvas, you need to make a general analysis of the room and take the correct measurements. The first thing you need to pay attention to is the intended purpose of this room. The curtains used in a child's bedroom will be significantly different from the kitchen curtains, and the curtain on the bathroom window will have a completely different look than in the reception room. Moreover, before purchasing or processing a material, you need to take measurements that will help in calculating the required material. To make calculations, you need to know how many centimeters from the floor to the cornice, what the height of the ceiling is (to select the type), and also analyze whether the chosen option is suitable and whether it matches the design of the room.

As can be seen from the information presented in this article, curtains, as an indispensable element of the interior, must be consistent with the design of the room, and the choice of their length largely depends on the intended purpose of the room.

The design of a window opening has a significant impact on the appearance of the interior and the spatial perception of the room. In addition to the correct selection of fabric, style and additional accessories, you need to understand how long the curtains should be in a room of one type or another. Using the size of the canvases, you can control the microclimate in the room, giving it comfort, softness, a touch of luxury, solemnity and pomp. Each curtain length has its own advantages and disadvantages. Calculating optimal indicators is quite simple; you just need to decide on the desired end result.

How long can curtains be?

Among the traditional indicators of the length of curtain panels, four main groups can be distinguished.

1. Long curtains with a distance of 5-6 cm from the floor level. The most common option today. The main advantage of the solution is practicality. The bottom of the curtains does not get dirty even when cleaning the room. The disadvantage is a visual reduction in the height of the ceilings. The specified length is not recommended for ceiling heights below 2.5 m.
2. Curtains to the floor (1 cm from the horizontal surface). A strict classic that is attractive and relevant at all times. This solution visually increases the height of the ceilings, but can create additional difficulties when sewing curtains (if the ceiling is not perfectly flat).
3. Panels, the lower part of which lies on the floor. For this purpose, add from 10 to 20 cm to the classic length. An ideal decorative option for a bedroom or living room. With the appropriate selection of fabric, an atmosphere of comfort or royal luxury is created. Lush folds of fabric are prone to the accumulation of dust, dirt and animal hair. The design creates certain difficulties during cleaning.
4. Curtains up to the windowsill. An indent of a few centimeters up or down from the midline of the horizontal surface is allowed. Such products are usually used in the kitchen or bathroom. They have pronounced practical properties, but are inferior to long models in terms of decor.

When choosing a particular type of curtain length, it is important to consider the need to use accessories. While curtains lying on the floor require minimal additional decorative support, short curtains without accents and supporting details often look shabby and unesthetically pleasing.

Short curtains: advantages and features of use

Flirty short curtains, which can most often be found in the kitchen, have a number of advantages that allow them to be used as decor for domestic premises:

1. To create canvases, a minimum of material is required.
2. The sheets free up working surfaces as much as possible and do not take up much space.
3. Short curtains are easier to remove for cleaning.
4. Such curtains are less dirty during cooking and cleaning.
5. Kitchens are small spaces, so they especially value a sufficient amount of sunlight. Lightweight and often translucent curtains provide full natural light while letting in fresh air.

Short curtains can be used in the bedroom and living room, but they must be equipped with appropriate decorative elements that will create the desired atmosphere and will not look boring against the background of other furnishings.

It is worth considering that the average length of the curtains can “cut” the height of the room in half, so short curtains should not be made of thick, dark materials that contrast with the main design of the room.

Types and features of long curtains

Long curtains are considered a decor classic that never loses its popularity. Elongated panels always look sophisticated and elegant, visually increasing the height of the ceiling, and with the right selection of patterns and materials, also expanding the space.

• Floor-length curtains allow you to mask defects in the design of baseboards under the window, cover up uneven seams on the walls and other cosmetic defects. If the floor in the room is flat and has no noticeable differences in height, then such a design solution will fit well into most interiors. Even a professional decorator or tailor will not be able to perfectly calculate the length of floor-length curtains if the horizontal surface is uneven. Inconsistencies will be obvious, spoiling the entire image. If discrepancies are discovered after hanging the curtains, experts recommend shortening the curtains if the ceiling height allows, or using decorative stripes if this does not contradict the stylistic direction of the room.
• Curtains touching the floor give the ensemble a special softness and elegance to the interior. The design solution is equally appropriate in an elegant living room and a cozy bedroom. It is important to remember that such decor will require a significant amount of fabric. On the other hand, additional elements and complex accessories are not needed in this case. To give the image harmony and completeness, modest tiebacks made of the same material as the curtains themselves are sufficient. It is worth thinking several times before using such decoration in a house where there are animals. Another disadvantage of very long curtains is the need for frequent dry cleaning and careful regular washing of the panels. After each cleaning, the fabric will have to be beautifully laid out again, restoring the airy image.
• Particularly popular are curtains whose length does not reach a few centimeters to the floor. They are quite economical, when using them, unevenness of the horizontal surface is not so noticeable, the size of the panels allows for dry and wet cleaning, and freely hanging fabric does not accumulate dust so much. True, calculating the length, designing and making such curtains is not so easy. Measurements must be taken in several places; we must not forget about the indentations for the seams: excessively shortened panels look rather shabby and untidy.

Before choosing a functionally suitable option, you need to compare the length of the curtains with the texture and color of the material used. The lighter the fabric, the shorter the curtains can be.

Basic measurements before sewing curtains

How to correctly calculate the length of the panels?

1. The distance from the floor to the cornice is measured.
2. Depending on the type of fastenings (eyelets, loops, rings), it is necessary to add or subtract from 2 to 10 cm of fabric.
3. Depending on the density of the material, add from 2 to 4 cm to the allowances in the upper and lower parts of the canvas.
4. If the curtains are on the floor, subtract 1 cm, if at a distance from the floor, subtract 5-6 cm, if on the floor, add 10-20 cm.

In the case of designing short curtains, the same manipulations are carried out, but oriented towards the window sill.

You should not rely on the evenness of the ceiling, window opening and floor - measurements are taken at a minimum of five points. It is necessary to purchase fabric with a small reserve. This will avoid mistakes, and if necessary, it will be possible to change the style. When using a lining, it is worth considering that it will slightly tighten the main fabric, slightly raising it above the intended values.

Conclusion

Long curtains often use original trim. If this element is present, it should be visible. Curtains touching the floor need to be given a neat and obvious decorative shape, otherwise they will look like an unfortunate mistake in calculating the material. This type of design should be represented by a beautiful, well-draped fabric.

Have you decided to sew curtains for your room yourself? Then you will need their exact dimensions. And today we will talk about how to get them correctly. How to calculate the width of curtains, their length, and take into account additional nuances. This matter is not at all complicated, and novice designers have absolutely nothing to be afraid of.

How to measure height?

The height of the product is determined by measuring the distance between the floor and the hooks of the curtain rod. Take at least three measurements in different places to eliminate curvature of both the floor and ceiling. If the resulting numbers match, then your ceiling, like the floor, is quite flat. If sizes vary, note each result. You will have to calculate separately for each measurement.

From the fixed size, subtract the distance between the bottom edge of the curtain and the floor surface. The remaining result will be the desired height of the curtain fabric.

Now about the width

This kind of thing requires very precise measurements. If you make an error of a couple of centimeters, you can completely ruin everything. If you decide to sew curtains in a specialized salon, then know: you will have to vouch for the correctness of the provided dimensions with your own signature. And your task is to check that the employee placing the order correctly writes down the measurements you specified in the data form.

If the size of the finished product does not suit you, then you can change the “dimensions” only by placing a new order for a fee.

Non-standard options

To avoid such annoying misunderstandings, you should learn a couple of simple rules by which such measurements are taken. First of all, you need to start with Without this, you will not get any accurate size. If the curtain model you choose has a variable height (such as an “arch” style), you should mark at least two heights - the top rise and the bottom edge. It is advisable to add several intermediate measurements to them.

It happens that the cornices above the windows are installed obliquely. This option can be found in country houses, or when curtains are sewn for an attic-type room, as well as when decorating stairs. In this case, the heights of the upper and lower levels of each of the cornices will be required, as well as their straight and horizontal lengths. If the cornice is curved in the form of an arch, you will need to make a separate pattern for it.

Let's go get some fabric

The next step when sewing curtains yourself is to calculate the required amount of fabric. First of all, decide on the choice of material and specify its specific width. When you come to the store, you will find that tulle for curtains, as they are, exist in widths from 1.4 to 1.6 meters (on average one and a half meters). Another option is a height of 2.7 to 3.2 m (average 2.8 m).

When cutting, the second format is more economical, so designers mostly choose it. In addition, most lush and voluminous elements cannot be cut out of fabric if its width is insufficient. Therefore, in our calculations we will focus on a height of about 2.8 m.

We focus on the cornice

The main measurement we need when determining the amount of fabric is the width of our cornice. If the chosen material has a large pattern and high density, a width of one and a half times the size of the cornice is quite sufficient. That is, we multiply its length by 1.5.

So, with a three-meter cornice, we will need four and a half meters of fabric. This option is the most economical, but, unfortunately, not the most beautiful and aesthetically pleasing. Curtains that are decorated with bow-shaped folds or beautifully assembled look much more elegant, using a special curtain braid.

If you want voluminous curtains

The minimum fabric for which a bow fold is possible is two widths of the cornice. But the most spectacular view will be if its width is exceeded by 2.5-2.7 times. Accordingly, in the above example (the width of the cornice is 3 meters), we will need about 8 meters of fabric.

If your plans include assembling fabric, for which you will need curtain tape, check the amount of material for it with a consultant in the store. But in all cases, remember that you will need about 20 more centimeters to fold the side seams, which should be added to the calculated footage.

Other curtain options

Using the above diagram, we calculate the yardage of fabric for sewing a regular shadow curtain and an inner tulle curtain. If our project includes lambrequins, then each of its elements will require additional material consumption, which should be calculated separately and then added up.

This task in this case is quite complex - how to sew curtains. Patterns of finished products with all the calculations provided for the selected model will probably be its optimal solution. Another option is to contact a specialist designer.

Much simpler are those curtain options where such difficulties are not provided. For example, when the selected model refers to Roman blinds or Japanese curtain panels. If we don’t plan to assemble our product into folds, then we take one width (or height when we are talking about fabric one and a half meters wide) and increase it by the allowance for the side seams.

Something else not to forget

There is only one important nuance to take into account here. In the case where the selected fabric has a bright large print, with a width of one and a half meters, you will need to adjust the pattern in the same way as a wallpaper sticker. In this case, you will have to purchase additional fabric.

If our model is provided with a base of adhesive fabric, then its finished size with added seam allowances increases by 20 or 30 cm to fit the curtain fabric onto the adhesive.

How to calculate the width of curtains and their length for the chosen style

Of course, before measuring the fabric, you should decide on the size of the product itself. The curtain can be either right up to the floor (not reaching its surface by about 13 mm) or flush with the window sill, as well as 8 centimeters below its level. For now, in our measurements we do not include allowances for the hem at the bottom and the drawstring at the top edge.

How to calculate the width of curtains? We determine it, as already mentioned, focusing on the extreme lateral points of the cornice. A small allowance should be provided for one web to overlap another in the center. When the window is located in the corner of the room, when measuring the width you will have to take into account the value from the corner to its edge. If this distance is very small (no more than 20 cm), then there is clearly not enough space to properly open the curtains. You should consider the option of transferring both canvases to the other side.

The concept of pomp factor

The dimensions of the curtains when unfolded are not everything. Think about the splendor of your future product. It depends on the density of the selected fabric and the style of the drawstring at the top. If narrow, deep folds are expected, they will take from 3 to 3.5 times the width of the window.

In general, focus on the following figures: the fluffiness ratio for dense fabrics is 2:1, in fabrics with medium density it is slightly higher - 2.5:1. Well, the lightest fabrics should be chosen with a ratio of 3:1, that is, take the curtain width three times larger than the size of the cornice.

Fabric pattern and drawstring

When determining the required amount of fabric, be sure to take into account the repetitions of the pattern on it, the style of the upper drawstring and all the necessary allowances for hems. The size of the pattern depends on its repeatability and lies within the boundaries between adjacent identical elements. It may be indicated on a coupon containing a description of the fabric. If there is no such information, you can calculate the size of the pattern yourself.

To obtain the size of each panel, one pattern value should be added to its required length. Do not forget about the drawstring provided along the upper edge of the product. Its width can vary from 2.5 to 20 cm. This value must be doubled and added to the calculated length of our canvas.

For example, if the drawstring is ten centimeters wide, the total should be increased by 20 cm. For a drawstring cut out separately, its length should be taken equal to the total width of the entire product, with at least 15 centimeters added for the hem.

As you can see, independently sewing curtains of a simple style, including all the necessary measurements, selecting fabric with calculation of its required quantity and taking into account some necessary nuances, is not at all difficult, and is accessible to a novice dressmaker. We hope our article helped the reader to navigate this issue a little. We wish everyone success in mastering this interesting and useful activity!

But also with the size of the panel, which is sometimes much more difficult. Correctly sized curtains can highlight all the advantages of the room, while too wide, long or short can ruin even the most ideal and stylish room. Therefore, before going to the store for curtains or when buying fabric for them, you need to clearly know what size curtains you will need.

We take measurements

Naturally, the process of determining the optimal curtain sizes begins with taking the necessary measurements. So, the main data that we need to obtain is the width and length of the future curtains, and all other data, type of assembly, etc., are then calculated based on these data.

It is worth noting that it is worth taking measurements already after the cornice has been selected and installed. , can be attached to a wall or ceiling, but in any case, the length of the cornice must exceed the width of the window. If there is another room for relaxation, then you can attach a cornice to the entire width of the walls, effectively emphasizing the window area. In other rooms, the cornice should be 20-30 cm larger than the window opening so that the curtains can move, clearing the way for the sun's rays, the exception is where, as a rule, only translucent ones hang, and the length of the cornice is almost the same as the width of the window. Please note that there are now curtain rods with adjustable length: if desired and necessary, they can be made a little shorter or longer.

It is, of course, desirable before taking measurements, already decide on the curtain model, since the calculation of the length and width of the required fabric will depend on the type of fabric, fastening, and number of layers of window decoration.

• The width of the curtains can be measured tape measure or soft measuring tape from the first fastening to the last.
• Curtain length is measured from the cornice or from selected fastening elements, for example, rings, to the mark you need.

Determining the width of the curtain

So, we measured the distance from the left hook to the right, but the resulting figure does not mean the required width of the curtain, because in this case it will only hang freely. In the vast majority of cases it is necessary drapery, but how lush and voluminous it will be depends on the nuances of the individual room.

It is worth noting in advance that you need to be especially careful with drapery:

Remember that this rule works regardless of how many panels are used to decorate the window - one or two. But in the latter case, another 15 cm is added to the calculated length of the curtains so that the curtains can overlap each other when closed, creating a spectacular darkening.

Many years of experience of curtain sewing experts gave us the basis to develop approximate values ​​of the width of the fabric depending on the length of the cornice. You can use the rule described above, or you can take into account the following data:

As a rule, the size of the room and windows are proportional, so these simple tips and calculations will help you without any problems decide on the required width of curtains to make the room look neat and comfortable.

Please note that sometimes The width of the curtains depends on the selected models. So, for example, abundant draperies are appropriate for translucent curtains, but on massive thick curtains there should be folds, but they may be less voluminous, so here you should rely on your own taste, or use verified data on the gather factor for each type of fabric.

So, for curtain fabric this coefficient is 1.7, for a veil and organza with a pattern - 2, and for thin organza without a pattern - 3.

Width and length of Roman blinds

Lambrequin width corresponds to the length of the cornice, so if you decide to decorate the window with a similar element, then it will be unnecessary to use any correction factors and carry out additional calculations.

Width of Roman, roller, Japanese curtains

It is worth mentioning separately such types of curtains as Roman, roller, Japanese blinds and other similar structures. Roller and Roman blinds, as a rule, are placed directly in the window opening, so their width corresponds to the width of the window, measured from bead to bead. Sometimes roller blinds are placed on the wall above the window, then their width should be 10-15 cm larger than the window opening, completely covering the window and extending slightly beyond the boundaries in order to hide residents from the rays of light as much as possible.

Width they are chosen exactly according to the width of the window opening, and Japanese curtains, consisting of many panels, can extend far beyond the window, or can cover only the transparent part without going beyond its boundaries. It all depends on the design decision and features of the room, its area, etc.

Determining the length of the curtain

The length of the curtains is an even more important parameter than their width. Here you need not only to measure everything correctly, but also to imagine in advance, what length of curtains would be more appropriate?. The choice depends on the functional purpose of the room, as well as on its features: area, height, lighting, etc. If this is the case, then long curtains may be inappropriate, with the exception of translucent tulle with a vertical stripe. In the kitchens in most cases, long curtains are also not suitable: they will interfere and clutter up the already mostly cramped rooms. But if the kitchen is spacious, and there is a lot of free space near the window, there is no stove or sink, and there is a dining area, then you can experiment with floor-length curtains. Rooms such as bedroom and living room, require the use of long curtains that will cover the entire window opening and fall to the floor.

So, once you've decided where the curtains will end, it's time to take measurements. Measure the length from the eaves to the floor or to, or to any necessary point. Please note that you need to think through the curtain fastening system in advance, and if these are hooks or rings, then you will need to measure the length of the curtains from them, and not from the cornice.

In and bedrooms Many experts recommend choosing the length of the curtains so that there is still 3-4 cm left to the floor - for reasons of comfort and convenience. If the window decoration consists of from several layers, That curtains should be several centimeters longer than curtains to completely cover their edge.

Many apartments cannot boast of a flat floor or ceiling, in which case it is better to curtain length measurements on the left, right and in the middle, then use either the average or the maximum value depending on the deviation present.

Even if you are planning to choose for a room curtains to the floor, it is better to follow the practice of professional seamstresses and measure distance from the eaves to the window sill and from the window sill to the floor. When you come to the store and start choosing a specific model, there is a high probability that you will like cascading curtains, with tiebacks or other elements. In this case, you will know exactly all the parameters of your window opening.

Lambrequin length it can be anything: it all depends on your preferences and the interior features of the room.

If you are buying fabric for making curtains, then to the obtained data on length and width you need to add 5 cm, which will be spent on bending and processing.

Eat curtain models that lie effectively on the floor: if you want to hang the same ones at home, then add another 20-50 cm to the measured length to form a spectacular wave.

If you want to sew curtains yourself and choose patterned fabric, and the curtains, for example, will consist of two parts, then you need to correctly combine the pattern. If the pattern is repeating, then you need to measure the part of it that is constantly duplicated. For example, it will be 70 cm, and we add the resulting result to the final value of the fabric length.

Another important point: they are now widespread artificial fabrics, which are very durable in use and almost do not shrink when washed, so if you want to sew curtains from them, you should not make any additional allowances for shrinkage. If the fabric is in stock more than 60% natural fibers, then the likelihood that it will shrink a little after washing increases, so In this case, the fabric is taken with a reserve- about 10%. If you want the window to be decorated with original and unique curtains that are not available in the store, then you need to buy the required amount of fabric for sewing them. So, how much fabric will be needed for curtains and drapes for our conditional window?

The standard width of a roll of translucent tulle is 2.8 m, which should be quite enough for the standard window height, so the issue of length remains resolved. As for the width, given the width of the window and the selected frame, you will need 2 * 2 = 4 m of fabric. But since the allowances on the sides are 5 cm, the total amount of fabric will be 4.1 m.

Width of curtain fabric, as a rule, is 1.4, 2.8 or 3.0 meters. It’s good if the width of the canvas ideally matches the length of the window opening, but it may be that the width is not enough, and then you will have to measure the fabric lengthwise and use several canvases to cover the window opening. Here it is important not to forget about the combination of the pattern and the length of the repeat - a repeating element of the ornament. In this case, you can sew a special fabric together, or maybe just make curtains from two parts.

The calculation in this case will be like this:

amount of fabric = ((window opening height + allowance)*number of panels) + repeat * (number of panels – 1)

If the window width is 2 m and KS = 2, and the width of the fabric in the roll is 1.4 m, then to make curtains, for example, you will need 3 canvases: 1.4 * 3 = 4.2 m, with a repeat value of 0.35 m we get the following data:

amount of fabric = ((2.7+0.2)*3)+0.35*2=9.4 m

If after cutting the fabric and sewing the curtains there will be leave a lot of fabric, and this may happen when a large pattern has been chosen, then from the leftovers it will be possible to sew tiebacks for curtains or small pillows for the sofa. When the curtains and other textiles in the room are made in the same style, this gives a special effect to the room.

It’s easy to sew the most common curtain models yourself, but if you doubt your professionalism or are planning to decorate a window with an elaborate model, then it is better to resort to the services of specialists.

In conclusion

The length and width of curtains are important parameters for window decoration, which need to be given no less importance than fabric, pattern and color. A correctly selected size will decorate the room and make it more comfortable, so before you go to the store for ready-made curtains or fabric for them, you need to take all the necessary measurements from the window opening, write them down and then base your choice on them.