Curtain fullness refers to the relationship between the ordering width and the amount of fabric used in your curtains. The ordering width is the measurement of the area you want to cover, usually the width of your curtain rod (between the finials) or track. Fullness is a key aspect of curtain design, as it determines how the fabric will drape and gather when hung. Different heading styles require different fullness ratios, since some styles naturally use more fabric to achieve their intended look.
Fullness is typically expressed as a multiplier (e.g., 2x). For example, if your ordering width is 50 inches and your curtains measure 100 inches in total fabric width, the fullness is 2x—meaning twice the amount of fabric is used compared to the ordering width.
While we always ensure the correct fabric amount is applied for the chosen heading style, you may notice cost variations between different styles. These differences usually arise from the amount of fabric required to achieve the specific fullness ratio of each heading type.
Example Calculation: If your curtain rod(between the finials) or track measures 50 inches and you choose Grommet/Eyelet Top curtains, the recommended fullness is 1.5x. To calculate the total width:
For a pair of curtains, divide the total width by two:
75 inches ÷ 2 = 37.5 inches per curtain panel.
This ensures your curtains achieve the ideal drape and aesthetic when hung.
The table below outlines the fabric measurements we use for each heading style to ensure the proper width and fullness for your curtains.
CURTAIN STYLE | FULLNESS RATIO |
---|---|
Grommet/Eyelet Top |
![]() 1.5 (Recommended)
![]() 2.0
|
Ripple Fold |
![]() 2.5 (Recommended)
![]() 3.0
|
French/Pinch Dual Pleat |
![]() 2.0 (Recommended)
![]() 2.5
|
French/Pinch Triple Pleat |
![]() 2.5 (Recommended)
![]() 3.0
|
Tailored/Euro Dual Pleat |
![]() 2.0 (Recommended)
![]() 2.5
|
Tailored/Euro Triple Pleat |
![]() 2.5 (Recommended)
![]() 3.0
|
Inverted Box Pleat |
![]() 1.5 (Recommended)
![]() 2.0
|
Goblet Pleat |
![]() 2.5 (Recommended)
![]() 3.0
|
Pencil Pleat |
![]() 2.0 (Recommended)
![]() 2.5
|
Rod Pocket |
![]() 1.5 (Recommended)
![]() 2.0
|
Tab Top |
![]() 1.5 (Recommended)
![]() 2.0
|
Back Tab |
![]() 1.5 (Recommended)
![]() 2.0
|
Tie Top |
![]() 1.5 (Recommended)
![]() 2.0
|
Flat Panel |
![]() 1.2 (Recommended)
![]() 1.5
|