Excerpted from Window Decor by Susan Mickey
For panels:
- Determine the width and length of the area you wish to cover. Mark down these measurements.
- Add the hem allowances to all measurements.
- If you want fullness in your curtains for a gathered window treatment, double the measurement width. Divide this by the number of fabric panels you will have on the window. Usually you will need two panels. For sheer or thin fabrics, you may use 2-1/2 or 3 times the finished width measurement.
For scarves and swags:
- Scarves and swags can be mounted through rings, sconces, tiebacks, or simply draped over a rod. Scarves look great in many different lengths -- framing a window, halfway down a window, to the floor, or even puddled on the floor. To determine the length of fabric needed, then:
- Measure the width of the window area you wish to cover.
- Measure the length down each side for the fabric drop.
- Add the width, plus the length of each side.
- Add a hem allowance for each end of the fabric.
- If you have a repeating pattern to match, add more yardage to accommodate the pattern.
- Remember to allow for tall ruffles or headers on the top of your curtain or window treatment. Determine if you want these above the window frame or flush with the window frame at the top. Hang your hardware accordingly.
- Working with a friend or helper is recommended. Have someone hold the fabric or treatment up to the window while you stand away and look with an objective eye.
- When measuring for fabric, round your measurements down to the nearest 1/2". Small fractions of an inch will barely be noticeable for most curtains or drapery treatments.
