Curtain planning guide
Understanding curtain fullness and pattern repeat
Learn how the flat fabric width, panel count, roll width, and print repeat shape a curtain estimate.
What is fullness?
Fullness compares the flat fabric width with the width of the track or pole. At 2× fullness, the total finished curtain width is twice the track width before gathering or pleating. The right ratio depends on the heading style and the look you want; the calculator accepts values from 1 to 3.
Divide the width into panels
Multiply the track width by fullness, then divide the total across the chosen number of panels. Add the side hem allowance on both sides of every panel to find its cut width.
When does a panel need joined drops?
A drop is one full-length piece cut from the roll. If one usable roll width cannot cover a panel's cut width, more drops can be joined. The estimate subtracts both adjoining seam allowances at each join and applies the same number of drops to every panel.
How pattern repeat affects length
A vertical pattern repeat is the distance before the design repeats along the roll. Each drop is cut long enough to reach the next whole repeat above the base drop length. This aligns the pattern along the length, but does not match motifs horizontally across drops or panels.
What the estimate does not include
It does not calculate shaped headings, lining, interlining, borders, valances, horizontal pattern matching, nap direction, shrinkage, or professional workshop cutting plans. Confirm high-value or large patterned projects with the fabric supplier or curtain maker.