How wider the curtains should be than the window. The size of the curtains: how to correctly measure and advice on choosing sizes depending on the interior design (121 photos)

Before you start sewing curtains at home, you need to choose a model for the future product and calculate how much fabric you need.

Measurements that will be required to calculate the consumption of fabric for sewing curtains

  • The first (L) is the length of the cornice, which is measured using a measuring tape or folding meter;
  • The second (H) is, in fact, the length of the future curtain. The size of this measurement depends on the length of the curtain (the curtain can be up to the floor, up to the window sill, ¾ on the height of the wall, etc. - that is, it depends entirely on your taste, imagination, as well as the style of your room). The size of this measurement is also influenced by the type of cornice and the way of processing the top of the curtain. You should immediately determine how you will process the top of the curtain - whether it will be a curtain tape, or hanging thread loops, or large fabric loops. By default, this measurement is measured from the top edge of the eaves.

How to calculate the consumption of fabric for sewing curtains

To find out the width of the curtain, you need to multiply the first measurement (the length of the curtain rod) by 1.5 - 3.5 and add 10 cm for processing the seams. You may ask what does "1.5 - 3.5" mean and how to determine which digit to multiply by?

"1.5 - 3.5" is the curtain assembly (splendor) factor. The value of the gathering factor depends on the density of the fabric and the type of the future curtain.

Remember a simple rule:

  • if you sew curtains from a very thin fabric: organza, organdy, veils, mesh, etc. without a pattern - you will need fabric in width three and a half times the length of the curtain rod,
  • for fabrics of medium density: chiffon, tulle, thin fabrics with a pattern - two and a half times more,
  • for dense fabrics: velvet, taffeta, linen, gabardine - one and a half to two times.

You can also determine the curtain assembly factor using the following table:

To determine the length of the curtain, add 10-15 cm to the second measurement (curtain length) for processing.

So, to summarize:

Curtain width
  • for thin fabrics: L x 3.5 + 10 cm = fabric width;
  • for fabrics of medium density: L x 2.5 + 10 cm = fabric width;
  • for heavy fabrics: L x 1.5 + 10 cm = fabric width;
Curtain length
  • H + 15cm = fabric length

The width of the roll for most tulle fabrics is 2 meters 80 cm. Knowing this measurement, now it is easy for you to calculate the length of the fabric to be typed, provided that the height of the future curtain does not exceed the width of the roll minus the edge.

The width of a roll of curtain fabrics is different: 1 meter 40 cm, 2 meter 80 cm and 3 meters. If the length of the future curtain fits into the width of the roll, then the fabric consumption is calculated as described above.

If the width of the fabric turns out to be less than the height of the future product (i.e. curtains), then we calculate the consumption of fabric in a different way: we will sew the fabric from several canvases. The number of canvases is directly proportional to the gathering factor and the pattern of the fabric.

For fabrics with a repeating pattern (rapport), additional allowances for seams for adjustment must be taken into account, that is, give an additional increase by one pattern rapport on each panel. When sewing panels, the curtain pattern must match exactly.

Window curtains are an important expressive element of interior design. The perception of the room as a whole depends on their type. To avoid annoying mistakes when buying curtain fabrics, you need.

How to determine the width of the curtains

The most accurate measurements are obtained using a metal tape, and not the usual centimeter tape.

  • the length of the cornice,
  • material assembly factor (puffiness factor),
  • allowance of additional centimeters for the processing of the sides.

A correctly installed cornice should extend from each side of the window opening by 20-25 centimeters. This installation allows you to freely move the curtains in order to provide sufficient lighting in the room.

Attention! Too much if desired, you can visually expand. The desired effect will be achieved if the curtains cover not only the window opening, but also the walls - partially or completely to the corner. All this must be taken into account when measuring the length of the fastening system.

The scheme for calculating curtains in width is as follows:

  1. The working distance of the rod (string, rail) of the fastening system is measured, along which the curtains will move.
  2. Determined with a fluff factor, which depends on the density and texture of the material. The curtains look more aesthetically pleasing when they do not hang on the eaves with a flat screen (although this option also takes place), but are beautifully draped with folds.
  3. The more airy and thinner the fabric, the more folds are allowed on it:

  • for tulle, organza, veils, the fold assembly factor is from 2 to 4, that is, the width of the translucent curtains will be twice, three times or four times the working length of the cornice;
  • for denser fabrics (silk, satin, chintz, linen, mixed fabrics) - coefficient from 2 to 2.5;
  • for dense curtains (velvet, jacquard) - from 1.5 to 2.

Designers advise against getting carried away big amount folds, if the fabric is with a large print. This will interfere with the general perception of the texture of the curtain.

The width of the curtains also depends on the type of drapery. How to choose the right build ratio - this drawing will help.

Plus another 5-7 centimeters on the overlap of the "met" drawn curtains. In total, it is 10-12 centimeters.

So, the formula for calculating the width of one curtain looks like this:

Curtain rod length: 2 (number of curtains) × gathering factor + 5 cm overlap = width of one curtain in finished form

How to calculate length

The length of the curtain is the distance from the rod (string, rail) of the curtain rod to the selected level. The length of the curtain is chosen according to the style of the interior and the tastes of the owners. Curtains can:

  • reach the floor
  • lie on the floor in a train
  • end at the windowsill,
  • fall below it by 10-15 cm.

In addition, the height of the curtain is influenced by how its upper edge will be processed - whether it will be a drawstring, fabric loops or ties, eyelets, clothespins or hooks.

The curtains will have to be washed over time. All fabrics (natural - in to a greater extent) have the property of "shrinking" - to decrease in size after washing. Linen, for example, "shrinks" up to 10% of the original parameters. To avoid an unpleasant situation, an allowance for shrinkage is made for the hem of the bottom - add additional safety 5-8 cm. In total, 10-12 cm of allowance will go to the bottom edge.

We take into account all the subtleties

The width of a roll of light fabrics (such as tulle, organza, veil) is usually 2 m 80 cm. If the height of the future curtain fits into these figures, then it is not difficult to calculate the number of required running meters when buying.

With curtain fabrics, the situation is more complicated - their rolls are different widths: 1 m 40 cm, 2 m 80 cm, 3 m. In the case when the height of the curtain (in other words, its length) fits into the width of the roll, the footage is determined in the same way as indicated.

If the width of the roll is less than the length of the curtain, then the curtains will have to be sewn from several sheets of fabric. In a financial sense, this is more burdensome. The number of canvases will also depend on the gathering factor and the pattern on the fabric. When joining the canvases, the pattern must match - you will need additional centimeters to align the pattern.

If the curtains are with a large print, then the number of purchased meters increases by the height of the rapport - a repeating pattern. And this applies to every piece of cloth. For example, both curtains have a total length of 5 m. The rapport height is 30 cm.We calculate how many meters of fabric will have to be bought: 5 m + 30 cm + 30 cm = 5 m 60 cm.

Welcome to Furniture & Textile. This article provides a quick guide to determining the width and length of your curtain. It must be remembered that one of the first and most important steps in choosing curtains is to determine the correct and exact dimensions future curtains.

To select the size of the curtains, it is initially necessary to measure the cornice, window, window sill and measure the distance from them to the walls of the floor and ceiling. For 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 of at least 5 meters, so that when measuring, long distances are not measured in parts. Now let's take a closer look.

How to take measurements to choose the size of curtains

To determine the size of the curtains, first of all, it is necessary to determine, 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 measure as shown in the figure. Remember to write down all readings. Measure 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, on which the cornice protrudes.) Measure the length of the cornice, within the limits - the suspensions of the cornice, 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 dimension the Working length of the curtain rod.
  2. Measure the distance from the eaves to the floor
  3. Measure the distance from the eaves to the top edge of the windowsill

How to calculate the length of the curtains

The calculation of the length of the curtains depends on three main factors:

Choose the type of curtain length you want

To choose the right curtain length, you will need to determine what type of curtain 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 eaves to the floor minus 1 -2 centimeters
  • Extra long curtains, the size of this type of curtain is equal to the distance from the eaves to the floor plus 20-30 cm.
  • Short curtains, the size of this type of curtain is equal to the distance from the eaves to the upper edge of the window sill

Determine the type of attachment of curtains to the cornice

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

  • If you are using a loop or hook fastener for curtains, measure the length of the curtain based on the height of the fastener. In the version with loop fasteners, the total length of the curtain 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 indent of the eyelets from the upper edge of the curtains.

The figure shows the fasteners of the curtains 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 fastener.

Take into account the allowances for the length of the curtains

Do not forget when buying fabric for curtains, allow for allowances of 5 cm or more on the upper and lower edges of the curtains for processing and hemming. The upper and lower edges of the curtains must be hemmed, otherwise the curtain fabric may unravel and "shaggy".

How to calculate the width of the curtains

The width of the curtains depends on the width of the window and on the length of the curtain. But in order to choose the right width of curtains, you need to decide on the number and volume of assemblies on the curtains. The thickness of the curtains 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 splendor, which determines the number of folds on the curtain's canvas 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 must:

The working length of the eaves multiplied by the fluff factor.

Splendor ratio depending on the type of fabric

  • For dense heavy fabrics Кп = 2
  • For fabrics of medium density Kp = 2.5
  • For light tissues of low density Kp = 3


In the photo, a curtain made of dense corduroy Kp = 2

In the photo, a curtain of medium density Kp = 2.5

In the photo, examples of light curtains Kp = 3

Selection of curtain widths depending on the number of folds

Here are some tips for choosing the width of the curtain and the amount of folds on the curtains.

  • When choosing a 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 many 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 the sliding curtains, you can use the following table

Eaves length Curtain width
Cornice no more than 1.4 m. The width of the panel is equal to the length of the cornice
Cornice no more than 2.0 m. The width of the panel is equal to 1.5 times the length of the cornice
Cornice no more than 2.8 m. The width of the panel is equal to 2 lengths of the cornice
Cornice no more than 3.4 m.
Cornice not more than 4.0 m. The width of the panel is equal to 2.5 lengths of the cornice

Using the table, you will get the required total width of the curtains. Please note that the total width assumes the width of all canvases.- after all, the curtains can also consist of several canvases-curtains.

In the event that you do not want folds in the fabric of the curtains 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 finishing on the sides. But if you are using a different type of fabric, do not forget to add an additional 5 centimeters from each edge of the curtain for processing and hemming.

The choice of the length and width of the curtains depending on the type of room

Choosing the size of the curtains for the kitchen

The length and width of the curtains in the kitchen. Since there are many sources of pollution in the kitchen - grease, steam and other delights, it is preferable to have curtains with a small area of ​​contamination for easier curtains care. Under this criterion, curtains with a length to the window sill and with a minimum number of folds in width are suitable., 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 longer and more draped options.

  • Length of curtains for the living room.The living room will look good classic curtains to the floor. That is, the length of the curtains is equal to the distance from the eaves to the floor, plus or minus the curtain fastening.
  • Curtains in the living room in width... The width depends on the size of the room and the style of the interior. If the living room is in classic styles, then the drapery of the curtains is permissible, which means that the width of the curtains can be calculated according to the table above. If the interior is in modern style, for example, the interior is in the style of minimalism, then the width of the curtains should be equal to the length of the cornice - that is, smooth and without folds.

How to choose the size of curtains for the bedroom

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

  • Bedroom curtains length... Elongated curtains with a length of 20-30 centimeters longer than the distance from the eaves to the floor are well suited.
  • The width of the curtains in the bedroom should provide a maximum of folds i.e. not less than 2.5 of the length of the cornice.

How to choose the size of curtains for the nursery

Curtains in the nursery should be easy to wash and not have extra space for pollution. Active kids play everywhere, including near windows.

  • The length of the curtains for the nursery... The optimal length will be to the floor without unnecessary gaps, that is, the distance from the eaves to the floor.
  • The width of the curtains in the nursery it can be like in a living room without unnecessary folds, but you can make more draped options, i.e. curtain width from 1.5 to 2.5 curtain lengths.

Video how to choose the size of curtains

Finally, to consolidate the material, you can watch the video from step by step plan determining the size of curtains

Please note that the calculation of the length is done without taking into account the hemming of the bottom and top of the curtains, this parameter will be added later. To calculate fabric for curtains, measure with a metal tape the distance from the place where the curtain is attached to the eaves to the desired length.

  • Length to the sill. In this case, it is recommended to make the curtains a little higher than the level of the window sill, by about 1 cm. Then they will easily move without touching it.

  • Average length. Curtains that descend 10-15 centimeters below the sill line look good. In addition, this option allows you to reduce.

  • Full length. One of the most traditional and favorite design options window openings- floor-length curtains. In this case, the distance should not be measured to the floor surface, but slightly higher. This will prevent the fabric from fraying, curtains can be washed less often and will last longer. Curtains falling to the floor certainly look impressive, but they quickly deteriorate and interfere with cleaning.

Width calculation

To calculate fabric for curtains, you need to consider how the fabric will be attached to the cornice, and how lush the curtains will be. The last parameter takes into account the density and width of folds on the curtain in a fully open state.

Before you start taking measurements, it is worth hanging the cornice - this will be needed to calculate both the length and width of future curtains. Usually, the distance from the upper edge of the window to the eaves is in the range from 7.5 to 12.5 centimeters, beyond the width of the window, it should protrude at least 15 cm in order to be able to completely free the window opening from the curtains.

In order to beautifully fold the curtains from the sides when sewing, you need to add 10 centimeters on each side.

How to calculate fabric for curtains designed, for example, for a standard window opening and standard ceiling heights?

In this case, the length of the cornice can be 2 m, the height of the curtains (to the floor) - 2.6 m. To make them not too lush, we will take the assembly factor equal to 2.

Curtain: tulle

Tulle is made according to the following formulas:

Height: curtain height + bottom hem allowance + top hem allowance
In our case, we have 2.6 + 0.15 + 0.10 = 2.85 (m)
Width: eaves length x assembly factor, or in our case 2 x 2 = 4 (m).

Curtain: curtain

Fabric consumption for blackout curtains is made according to the same formula, with the only difference that, unlike tulle, it is made of at least two parts. Therefore, the height will be the same, but the resulting width will have to be divided by two.

Do not discard the pieces of fabric left over from the curtains cut. From these leftovers you can sew decorative pillows, tie-backs for curtains, other decorative elements.

Attention!

If the pattern on the curtains is repeated in length, then when sewing the curtains, you will have to adjust the pattern at their junction. To do this, the fabric must be taken with a margin of the size of the rapport (repeating pattern on the fabric). If the rapport is 60 cm long, the fabric must be taken 60 cm more than calculated.

The design of the 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, it is necessary to understand how long the curtains should be in a room of one type or another. With the help of 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. It is quite simple to calculate the optimal indicators, you just need to decide on the desired end result.

How long can the curtains be?

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

  1. Long curtains with an indentation of 5-6 cm from the floor level... The most common option today. The main advantage of the solution is its practicality. The bottom of the curtains does not get dirty even when cleaning the room. The disadvantage is a visual decrease in the height of the ceilings. The length shown is not recommended for ceilings below 2.5 m.
  2. Floor-length curtains (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. Cloths, the bottom of which lies on the floor... For this purpose, from 10 to 20 cm is added to the classic length.An ideal option in terms of decor for a bedroom or living room. With the appropriate selection of fabrics, an atmosphere of coziness 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 when cleaning.
  4. Curtains to the windowsill... It is allowed to indent a few centimeters up or down from the centerline of the horizontal surface. These products are commonly used in the kitchen or bathroom. They have pronounced practical properties, but are inferior to long models in terms of decor.

When choosing one or another type of curtain length, it is important to consider the need to use accessories. While curtains lying on the floor need minimal additional decorative support, short curtains without accents and auxiliary details often look poor and not aesthetically pleasing.


Short curtains: advantages and features of use

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

  1. A minimum of matter is required to create canvases.
  2. Cloths free up working surfaces as much as possible, do not take up much space.
  3. Short curtains are easier to remove for cleaning.
  4. These curtains are less dirty during cooking and cleaning.
  5. Kitchens are small spaces, so they value a lot 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 must be fitted 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 is able to "cut" the height of the room in half, so short curtains should not be made of dense, dark materials that contrast with the basic design of the room.


Types and features of long curtains

Long curtains are considered a décor classic that never loses its popularity. Elongated panels always look refined and elegant, visually increasing the height of the ceiling, and when correct selection ornament and matter also expanding the space.

  • Floor-length curtains allow you to disguise flaws in the design of the baseboards under the window, obscure 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 successfully fit into most interiors. Even a professional decorator or tailor will not be able to perfectly calculate the length of the curtains to the floor in case of unevenness on a horizontal surface. Inconsistencies will be striking, spoiling the whole image. If discrepancies are found after hanging the curtains, experts recommend shortening the panels, if the height of the ceilings allows, or using decorative stripes, if this does not contradict the stylistic orientation of the room.
  • Floor curtains give outward appearance the ensemble is especially soft, and the interior is graceful. Design solution equally appropriate in an elegant living room and cozy bedroom... It is important to remember that such a decor will require a significant amount of fabric. On the other side, additional elements and complex accessories are not needed in this case. To give the image harmony and completeness, there are enough modest grabs made of the same material as the curtains themselves. It is worth considering 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 thorough regular washing of the curtains. After each cleaning, the fabric will have to be re-laid beautifully, restoring an airy image.
  • Particularly popular are curtains, whose length does not reach a few centimeters to the floor. They are quite economical, when using them, the irregularities of the horizontal surface are not so noticeable, the size of the panels allows for dry and wet cleaning The loose-fitting fabric does not accumulate dust as much. True, calculate the length, design and make similar curtains not so easy. Measurements must be carried out in several places, we must not forget about the indents for the seams: unnecessarily shortened panels look rather wretched and untidy.

Before settling on a functional suitable option, it is necessary to match 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 calculate the length of the panels correctly?

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

In the case of construction short curtains the same manipulations are carried out, but with an orientation to the windowsill.

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


Output

On long curtains often used original finish... If this element is present, it should be visible. Curtains touching the floor need to be given a neat and obvious decorative shape, in otherwise they will look like an annoying mistake when calculating the material. This type of decoration should be presented with a beautiful, well-draped fabric.