Light, 1.5x
Works for simple coverage, tight spaces, or budget panels where a flatter look is acceptable.
Curtain buying decision tool
Measure your window, choose a curtain scenario, and get the panel size, rod width, and buying checklist before you shop.
These examples assume outside-mount curtains with standard 2x fullness. Use them as a quick check, then use the calculator above for your exact window height, mount type, and panel width.
| Window width | Total curtain width | Common panel setup | Typical ready-made lengths |
|---|---|---|---|
| 36 in | 72 in | 2 panels around 36-42 in wide | 63, 84, or 96 in |
| 48 in | 96 in | 2 panels around 50-52 in wide | 84 or 96 in |
| 60 in | 120 in | 2 panels around 54-60 in wide | 84, 96, or 108 in |
| 72 in | 144 in | 2 panels around 72 in wide or 4 narrower panels | 84, 96, or 108 in |
Works for simple coverage, tight spaces, or budget panels where a flatter look is acceptable.
A reliable starting point for most bedroom, living room, and dining room windows.
Better for blackout panels, wider windows, and rooms where the curtains should look richer.
Useful for sheers and decorative curtains that need soft folds even when stretched across the window.
For most windows, total curtain fabric width should be about 2 times the window width. Use more fullness for sheers and a fuller look, or slightly less for simple coverage.
Start with the window opening. For outside mounts, add rod width beyond both sides of the frame so the panels can cover the window and stack back cleanly.
Measure from the rod position to the finished drop. The calculator recommends the next common ready-made length, such as 84, 96, 108, or 120 inches.
If you know the panel width, divide the total curtain width by that panel width and round up. If not, two panels is a common starting point for standard windows.
Start with the window measurements that matter before choosing a rod or panel length.
Understand fullness multipliers and why narrow curtains often look unfinished.
Use panel width and total curtain width to estimate how many panels to buy.
Compare common window widths with typical curtain width and length choices.
See how ready-made lengths and panel widths usually work before ordering.
Choose fuller blackout panels that cover the window edges and reduce light gaps.