When shopping for made-to-measure curtains, one of the most crucial yet often overlooked elements is curtain fullness. This key factor determines not just how your curtains look, but how they hang, function, and transform your space. Let's dive into the world of curtain fullness and ensure you order exactly the right amount of fabric for a professional finish.
What Is Curtain Fullness?
Curtain fullness refers to the amount of extra fabric used beyond the simple width of your window or track. This extra fabric creates those beautiful folds and pleats when curtains are closed, giving them that luxurious, professionally installed appearance.
A fullness ratio is expressed as a multiplier of your track or pole width. For example, a fullness of 2x means you'll need twice the width of your track in fabric.
Recommended Fullness Ratios
Different fullness ratios create dramatically different looks:
- 1.5x fullness - A minimal, modern look suitable for simple pencil pleat curtains in contemporary spaces.
- 2x fullness - The standard recommendation for most household curtains, offering a good balance of looks and value.
- 2.5x fullness - A more luxurious look with deeper folds that works well in formal living spaces.
- 3x fullness - Maximum luxury for show-stopping curtains in master bedrooms or grand reception rooms.
Choosing the Right Fullness Based on Heading Type
Different curtain headings require different fullness ratios to achieve their characteristic look:
- Pencil Pleat: 2x - 2.5x fullness
- Pinch Pleat: 2.5x - 3x fullness
- Wave or Ripple: 2x - 2.5x fullness (specifically designed for this style)
- Eyelet/Grommet: 1.8x - 2x fullness
- Tab Top: 1.5x - 2x fullness
- Goblet: 2.5x - 3x fullness
Calculating Your Fabric Requirements
To determine how much fabric you need:
- Measure your curtain pole or track width in centimetres
- Multiply by your desired fullness ratio
- This gives you the total fabric width needed
Example: For a 200cm track with 2x fullness, you'll need 400cm wide curtains.
Considerations That Affect Fullness Choices
Several factors might influence which fullness ratio is right for your space:
- Fabric weight - Heavier fabrics like velvet may need less fullness (1.8x - 2x) to avoid looking bulky
- Pattern matching - Patterned fabrics might require additional width for perfect pattern alignment
- Light control - For blackout purposes, greater fullness helps prevent light leakage
- Budget - Higher fullness ratios require more fabric, increasing cost
- Space constraints - Ensure you have enough wall space for stacking when curtains are open (approximately 20-25% of total width)
When to Consider Extra Fullness
For certain situations, consider increasing your fullness ratio:
- Bay windows or curved tracks
- Exceptionally tall ceilings
- Very sheer fabrics
- Formal rooms or period properties
- When curtains will remain closed most of the time
In these situations, having fuller curtains can provide a more luxurious feel, or fit with the aesthetic in period properties.
Final Tips for Perfect Curtains
- Always round up measurements when calculating fabric requirements
- Consider how curtains will stack back when open
- Remember that fullness affects not just appearance but insulation properties
- Allow for pattern repeats in patterned fabrics
- For very wide windows, consider multiple curtain panels to achieve full coverage.
By understanding curtain fullness and calculating your requirements correctly, you'll achieve that coveted professional look with your made-to-measure curtains, transforming your windows into true design features.