To work out how much curtain fabric you need, start with the finished drop, pole or track width, fabric width, fullness and pattern repeat. These measurements affect the cut drop and the total metres required, so checking them before ordering helps you avoid waste or coming up short.
When ordering curtain fabric by the metre, the cut drop is the length each fabric panel needs to be before hemming and making up. It is not always the same as the finished curtain drop, because you usually need extra fabric for hems, heading allowance and pattern matching.
What is curtain cut drop?
The cut drop is the fabric length cut for each curtain panel before sewing. It includes the finished curtain drop plus allowances for the top and bottom hems. If the fabric has a pattern repeat, the cut drop may need to be rounded up so the design matches neatly across each width.
As a simple guide, measure from the pole, track or chosen heading position down to where you want the curtain to finish. Then add your making-up allowance. For many curtain projects, this includes a top allowance and a generous bottom hem, but the exact amount depends on the heading style and finish.
How to calculate curtain fabric by the metre
First, measure the pole or track width. Then decide your fullness. Pencil pleat and eyelet curtains often use around double fullness, while some headings need more or less fabric depending on the style. Divide the total gathered width by the usable fabric width to work out how many widths are needed.
Next, multiply the number of widths by the cut drop. This gives the approximate total fabric length required. If the fabric has a large pattern repeat, add extra so the pattern can be matched between widths.
Why pattern repeat matters
Pattern repeat is one of the easiest things to miss. A plain fabric or small texture is simpler to calculate, but a floral, leaf, stripe, toile or art deco design may need extra fabric to align the pattern properly. This is especially important for full-length curtains and wide windows.
If you are choosing a patterned design from our floral fabric, leaf fabric or striped fabric collections, check the repeat before placing your order.
Should you include lining in the calculation?
Lining is normally calculated separately, but it should be planned at the same time as the face fabric. Curtain linings improve drape, privacy and durability, while blackout linings are useful for bedrooms, nurseries and rooms where light control matters.
If you are using interlining or blackout lining, allow for the extra bulk when choosing heading style and pole strength. Heavier curtains can look beautiful, but they need the right hardware and making-up method.
Quick curtain fabric checklist
- Measure the finished curtain drop carefully.
- Add top and bottom hem allowances to find the cut drop.
- Measure pole or track width, excluding finials.
- Choose the right fullness for the heading style.
- Check fabric width and pattern repeat.
- Order a sample before buying larger metreage.
If in doubt, round up rather than down. A small amount of spare fabric is easier to use for tiebacks, cushions or testing than trying to rescue curtains made from too little fabric.
