How to Determine Yardage of Material for Window Treatments

• 1). Measure the area to be covered.
  
  Mark where the rod will be placed. Measure vertically from the top of the rod/hangers in three places: left, middle and right. Include the length below the window you would like the curtains to hang.
  
  Measure horizontally in three places: top, middle and bottom. Add 4 to 6 inches on either side of the window if you want the curtains to go past the windows when pulled back and to cover the returns for the rod, if needed.
  
  Take the largest of these measurements and write them down.
  
  
• 2). Add 2 inches to the vertical measurement for the curtain header. Add 2 to 3 inches to the length measurement for the hem and add 1 to 2 inches to both sides for the side hems.
  
  
• 3). Multiply the width measurement by two to two and a half times to create the correct fullness. A sheer fabric might need three times fullness to hang nicely and provide coverage. This will give the final width of fabric you will need to make your curtains to cover your window.
  
  
• 4). Add additional fabric if the fabric has a repeating pattern. You will need one full pattern repeat every time you need to join two panels together to cover your window width.
  Add extra fabric if you choose a fabric with a print that will need to be matched.
  Add additional fabric for tiebacks, swags, valances, tabs or other accessories.
  
  
• 5). The window measurements, fabric width and pattern and the size of the accessories will determine the actual yardage purchased. Most fabrics come in 36-inch, 48-inch or 54-inch widths. Divide the final measurements accordingly.