Curtain Width Calculator — How Wide Should Curtains Be?
Enter your window width and fullness style to get the total fabric width and per-panel width for full, professional-looking curtains. No sign-up, no data stored.
Curtain width
How curtain width is estimated
- Rod span = window width + 2 x overhang (3-6 in per side recommended).
- Fabric total (in) = rod span x fullness ratio.
- Per panel = fabric total ÷ panel count.
- Panels to buy = the next standard panel width (52 or 54 in) per panel side.
The fullness ratio is fabric width relative to the rod span - not the window. Flat 1x panels look stretched and skimpy; 2x is the sweet spot most designers use for ready-made curtains.
Window width → curtain width reference
2x fullness, 4-in overhang each side, two panels.
| Window | Rod span | Fabric total | Per panel |
|---|---|---|---|
| 36 in | 44 in | 88 in | 44 in |
| 48 in | 56 in | 112 in | 56 in |
| 60 in | 68 in | 136 in | 68 in |
| 72 in (slider) | 80 in | 160 in | 80 in |
| 96 in (double) | 104 in | 208 in | 104 in |
Last updated: October 2026 · Ready-made panels come in 52/54-in widths; sizes between need custom or an extra panel. When in doubt, round up.
Curtain width FAQ
Plan on 1.5-2.5x the window width. The fullness ratio is the total fabric width before panel division: 1.5x gives a flat, modern look, 2x is the classic full look, and 2.5x suits sheer or formal drapery.
Yes - the total width is split across panels. For a 48-in window at 2x fullness you need 96 in of fabric, or two 48-in-wide panels. Each panel should overlap the window by a few inches when closed.
Yes - extend the rod 3-6 in past each side of the window frame (6-12 in total). That lets panels stack outside the glass so the window stays fully open, and it visually widens a narrow window.
Heavy lined panels need less fullness (1.5-1.75x) because they stack thick; light sheers need more (2-2.5x) to avoid looking skimpy. Our presets cover both ends of that range.
A single panel spanning a sliding door should still follow the fullness rule: a 72-in door at 2x needs a 144-in-wide panel. Most standard panels come in 52 or 54-in widths, so you often need two even for wide openings.
Related calculators & guides
How Wide Should Curtains Be?
Fullness ratios, panel math and the rod overhang rule.
Read the guide →