There are many things to think about when it comes to curtains. What pattern? Which color? How about the material? But have you ever thought about the importance of fullness? This boils down to how many panels you should buy. So, we have thoroughly researched the answer to how much fullness you should have for curtains.
As a general rule, curtains should have around two times the fabric or 200% fullness. However, depending on the type of curtains, you can have anywhere from 1.5 to 3.5 times the fullness or gather. For the best results that it is better to overestimate than underestimate.
Have you ever wondered what different types of curtains are available? Or, how do you measure curtain width? Keep reading for the answers to thee questions and more!
![Girl open curtain of her bedroom in the morning, How Much Fullness For Curtains? [Inc. Eyelet Curtains]](https://homedecorbliss.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/How-Much-Fullness-For-Curtains-Inc.-Eyelet-Curtains.png)
What Is Curtain Fullness?
This all comes down to how much material you have. The more fabric you have, the more fullness or more pleats you will see. The extra fabric gives a richer look to your curtains. Also, it provides a better sound barrier and insulation against harsh weather.
For example, let's review the different levels of fullness for curtains:
3x Fullness
Three times the fullness will give your room a luxurious finish. Think of this option as the deluxe version to curtain fullness. This is a popular choice for pleated-style curtains.
2X Fullness
Two times the fullness is the standard go-to option many people choose. This means that you have double the fabric compared to the size of your curtain rod. This is a safe option if you are unsure which fullness you desire.
1X Fullness
One time the fullness is usually not suggested unless you want to cut costs. Or if you aren't going to be opening the curtains at all. Additionally, it will look like a flat sheet of fabric which can throw off the style.
How Do You Measure Curtain Width?
The recommended two times the fullness or twice the fabric is measured the following way:
Rod width x 2 times fullness = ___ divided by curtain width = ___ number of widths of material needed. Then, round up or down to the nearest number.
For example, with a 50" rod width using a 44-inch wide fabric, you will need two times fullness.
Types Of Curtains: Pleat Style
Pleat style depends on how the fabric looks on the top hem of the curtain. The type of pleat can determine your room's style and overall feel. Here are some common options:
Pencil Pleat
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Pencil pleat curtains are a classic choice. You can mix and match them with any room or décor. They are tightly gathered together, making them look like a line of pencils, hence the name, pencil pleat.
They are popular in living rooms, dining rooms, and bedrooms. Interior designers prescribe around 2.5 fullness for these particular curtains to create the best look.
Double Pleat
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Double pleat curtains are contemporary and look great with any pattern. The fabric is bunched together on the top hem, which creates a double fold or double pleat.
They are popular in dining rooms, bedrooms, and kitchens. Professionals recommend about two times the fullness for double pleat curtains.
Triple Pleat
Triple pleat curtains are more formal than pencil or double pleated curtains. The fabric is pinched three times, creating a dramatic look.
Since triple pleat curtains tend to be more dressy, they look best in dining rooms or libraries. 2.5 times the fullness is best for triple pleat curtains.
Are Pinch Pleat Curtains Out Of Style?
Pinch pleat curtains have been around a long time and haven't gone out of style. However, you could say they aren't as popular as grommet-style curtains. Pleated curtains give off a traditional vibe, so depending on what look you are going for, they can either be the perfect addition to your room or make your space feel outdated.
Either way, pinch pleat curtains are here to stay.
Tab Tops
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Tab top curtains look like loops of fabric over the curtain rod. This style is vintage making it perfect for older homes. There are about 8 inches between each tab. Furthermore, they are best for windows where you won't open and close them often as the fabric can wear out over time.
For tab top curtains, go anywhere from 2 to 3 times the fullness. These curtains can get away with more fabric since you won't usually be opening and closing the curtains.
Eyelet
Eyelet curtains are easy to hang, making them a well-liked choice. They are also known as grommet curtains. Their clean lines make for a modern and minimalist room. As a result, they are great for anywhere in the house.
Go for at least two times the fullness for eyelet curtains to give the most nuanced look.
Rod Pocket
Rod pocket curtains have a sewn-in pocket where the curtain rod goes. This makes it easy to slide into the rod and gives a nice casual look. However, keep in mind that they are not as easy to open and close as eyelet curtains, making them an excellent option for any room where they will be stationary most of the time.
They look best with 2 to 3 times the fullness.
Can You Overdo Curtain Fullness?
Technically, you can overdo it when it comes to the fullness of curtains. It will make it difficult to gather on the rod and more challenging to open and close the curtains, making them inoperable.
Remember, it's better to overestimate than underestimate. However, overdoing the curtains can also be a huge downside. When in doubt, use the fullness calculator above.
Can I Use Just One Panel Per Window?
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If you use one panel per window, it will look like a flat sheet of fabric. This won't offer much privacy or insulation. Furthermore, it's not considered as nice-looking as curtains filled to the brim in fullness.
Nonetheless, some people like this simplistic look and prefer it. It all comes down to personal preference in this case.
Where Do I Buy Curtains?
You can buy curtains anywhere and everywhere! Bed Bath and Beyond, Target, Walmart, Kohls, The Home Depot, Lowes, and even Amazon are the most common places.
Click here to see these curtains on Amazon.
What's The Best Curtain Material?
There are many different types of curtain materials. But which is best? And what is the recommended fullness for each? Let's go over some everyday fabric choices and the suggested fullness of each. We are here to help you pick out your next curtains!
Sheer
Ah, sheer curtains. How lovely! They allow the light to filter through the window but still add a hint of privacy. It's a beautiful fabric that gives your room an airy feel.
Experts mention that sheers can handle up to 3 times the fullness because of the light and wispy material.
Lace
Lace curtains are cute and charming. It'll give your room a luxurious, farmhouse feel. For example, it will give your room a soft glow through the frilly material.
The benefit of lace is that you don't need to feel guilty with less fabric. 1 to 1.5 times the fullness is acceptable to allow the beautiful design to show through.
Blackout
Don't skimp on fabric for blackout curtains. Blackout curtains are meant to completely block out the light for privacy and light control. For this reason, most people use blackout curtains in bedrooms.
2 to 2.5 the fullness is best to ensure they keep their blackout reputation.
Cotton
With cotton, the customary two times the fullness is advised. Consequently, with this material, you can go up to three times the fullness, and the results will still be flawless. In other words, cotton is extremely versatile and flexible.
Wrapping It
There are many types of curtains and pleats available. The good news is when in doubt, use two times the fullness for your curtains to get the best overall look. This can vary slightly from different pleats, but the "rule of 2" is pretty typical.
Made it to the end? Check out these related helpful articles around curtains:
What Drop Do Curtains Come In?