An example of calculating the correct fabric amount required for a pair of curtains

The following gives an example of how to calculate the correct fabric amount for a pair of curtains.

Let's assume that I want to make curtains for a wide window and have attached a curtain pole above the window. The pole measures 240cm wide. I have decided I want a pinch (french) pleated heading and full length curtains that touch the floor. The distance between the bottom of the rings on the pole and the floor is 175cm. I have chosen a fabric with a distinct pattern repeat that measures 37cm, and therefore must ensure that I allow enough fabric for pattern matching.

Chosen heading: Pinch (French) pleats

Curtain pole width: 240cm

Finished length: 175cm

Pattern repeat: 37cm

Calculating number of widths

Width of curtain pole: 240cm

Multiply by 2.25 for pinch pleats: 540cm

Divide by fabric width of 137cm: 3.941

Round up to the nearest whole number: 4

The number of required widths of fabric is 4.

Calculating the length

Finish length of curtains: 175cm

Add hem allowance of 10cm to the top and 10cm to the bottom: 195cm

Add pattern repeat of 37cm: 232cm

Multiply the final cutting length of 232cm by our number of required widths which is 4: 928cm

I need to purchase 9.5 meters of fabric to make these curtains.

Cutting the fabric

As the total number of widths required is 4, that means each curtain will have 2 widths joined together.

Cut 4 lengths of fabric from your purchased roll, each length should measure 232cm long.Be certain to cut exactly straight across your fabric, at right angles to the length of your fabric. Marking your line with tailor's chalk and checking your measurements before you make the first cut is a good idea.

Your first job will be to join 2 fabric lengths together. Be sure to match up the pattern repeat at the join.See our instructions "Joining fabric panels"

Join the remaining 2 fabric lengths together, again matching the pattern. Trim any access fabric from the top and bottom of the lengths, so your length of each double curtain panel is 232cm.

Now you are ready to sew your curtains.

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