Narrow Curtain Panels (2024)

FAQs

What are narrow curtains called? ›

Window scarves are narrow strips of fabric that you drape over a curtain rod. (This makes them different from most other curtains, which are hung from a curtain rod.) Window scarves can vary in length, resembling everything from a valance to a set of floor-length curtains.

Standard Lengths for Curtains

Curtains come in standard lengths of 84, 96, and 108 inches with a standard width of 54 inches, according Skalman at the Shade Store. However, “not all windows fit these standard drapery measurements,” he cautions.

As a general rule, the width of your curtains should be at least twice the width of your window (if not more) to achieve a look of fullness. So, if your window is 116cms (45.5 inches) in width, you need two curtains of at least 232cms (91 inches) in width in total. You should always round up to the next full number.

~ Multiply window width by 1.5 to 2 if you want curtains loosely gathered for a relaxed, tailored look. Divide your total by the width of a single curtain panel to get the number of panels you need. ~ Multiply window width by 2.5 to 3 if you want curtains tightly gathered for a full, luxurious look.

Well, window furnishings like sheer curtains can help soften lighting, giving you just the right balance. With it, they also add a dose of style by elevating the room's overall appearance. And while they won't give you complete privacy, they will obscure views to a degree.

One panel is often used when you're trying to figure out what size curtain panels are best for your needs. If you're looking for a large window, you can use a two-panel window treatment that has two panels at their top and bottom. If you want a small hole in your wall, one-panel curtains are perfect for that purpose.

Float-length drapery should be no more than 1- or ½-inch off the floor because any higher than that and your curtains may look like they were ordered too short. How to Measure for Float-Length Drapery: Measure from the curtain rod down the floor and subtract ½ or ¼ of an inch.

The answer isn't necessarily intuitive, especially since most windows in a home don't extend all the way to the ground, but more often than not, curtains and drapes look best when they reach the floor.

The answer is generally yes. The drop length should be to the floor. When in doubt, err on the side of longer curtains. Whether or not you should puddle the curtains at the bottom is really a matter of personal preference, but for the most aesthetically pleasing and appropriate look, curtains should run to the floor.

It is advisable to use a metal tape measure were possible when measuring for curtains. The width is always the first measurement given, for example 46”x 54” (117cm x 137cm) means that each curtain is 46 inches (117cm) wide by 54 inches (137cm) drop.

How wide should curtains be for a 72 inch window? ›

For a 72 inch window, you need curtains with a finished width at least 1.5 times that, but better are those with twice that width and even three times the width for sheers. Therefore, for a 72 inch window, you need two panels of 72 inches each for twice the width and a luxurious gather.

To calculate curtain width, start by measuring the width of the window. Then multiply that number by 1.5 to 3 times, depending on the desired fullness and pleating style, says Kelly.

Install curtain rods 4–6 in (10–15 cm) beyond the window to let in more light. This creates an airy, open feel to the room. Your windows appear larger since the curtain rod extends on each side. Use a single curtain panel and pull it to the side of the window if you don't have wall space on both sides.

Therefore by default, most customers order panels that are 1.5 times the width of their curtain rod/pole. For example, for a curtain pole/window that is 36 inches wide, two panels of 27 inches *each* would give a less than average fullness yet a nice clean look for this style.

The total drapery width should be at least 2 times the window/rod widths. If you're hanging curtains just to frame a window and don't intend to shut them, you can round down to 1.5 times the width.

They can be both formal or casual, depending on your room's décor. Three of the most popular curtain styles are grommet, rod pocket, and pinch pleat curtains.

Muslin is a lightweight cotton fabric that's thin enough to use as a sheer curtain. Though, it's not as sheer as others like voile or nylon net. You'll get diffused sunlight in your room with this type of semi-sheer material.

“Legs” are side theatre curtains that are narrow and tall. They are situated on either side of the stage and run parallel to the grand drape. They are designed to block the audience's view of the backstage areas know as the wings. Legs are constructed from light-blocking velour material, and are almost always black.