Make sure you include enough material for the hems at the top, bottom and sides. The width of the fabric should be a MINIMUM of one and a half times the width of the window, and preferably it should be twice the width. If you’re going to use curtain tape which gives more complicated pleating – such as pencil pleating – you may need even more. Check with the staff when buying, explaining what sort of pleating you are planning.
If you’re going to make tab-top curtains, include extra fabric to make the tabs. Tabs should be cut in the same direction as the main curtain, with the selvedge edge running vertically, so you could need as much as an extra 30 cms of fabric.
Finally, if the material is patterned, and your window is wider than the width of the fabric, you will have to sew two pieces together, and match the pattern which will take extra fabric, especially if it’s a pattern with a big repeat. If you’re not sure about all this, take the measurements with you and explain to the staff exactly what you want so they can help you buy the right amount.
