To calculate the yardage needed for drapes, you only need four measurements and a few easy rules: 

What You Need Before You Start

1. Rod width or window width (in inches)

2. Finished length (in inches)

3. Fabric width (in inches)

4. Adjust based on whether the fabric has a pattern repeat* (skip this step if the fabric is soild colored)

Step 1: Decide Fullness (How Full the Drapes Will Look)

Choose one:

• 1.5× fullness → simple, tailored look

• 2× fullness → standard, most common

• 2.5× fullness → very full and luxurious

Most customers should use 2× fullness

Step 2: Calculate Total Width Needed

Window width × Fullness = Total fabric width needed

Example:
Window width: 100 inches
Fullness: 2×
→ 200 inches in total fabric width needed

Step 3: Figure Out How Many Fabric Panels You Need

1. Look at the fabric width (for example, 54 inches).

2. Divide the total width of the space by the fabric width.

3. Round up to the next whole number.

Example:
200 inches ÷ 54 inches = 3.7 → 4 fabric panels

Step 4: Calculate Length of the Drapes

Take your finished length and add extra 16-20 inches for hems:

Finished length + 20 inches = Cut length per panel

Example:
Finished length: 96 in
Cut length: 116 in

Step 5: Adjust for Pattern Repeat (If Any)

If your fabric has a vertical pattern repeat:

• Round the cut length up to the next full repeat

If there is no pattern, skip this step.

Step 6: Convert to Yards

1. Multiply:

   • Number of fabric panels × cut length (in inches)

2. Divide by 36 to get yards

3. Round up to the next full yard

Example:
4 panels × 116 inches = 464 inches
464 ÷ 36 = 12.9 → 13 yards

Quick Rule of Thumb

• Most standard windows with floor-length drapes need 12–16 yards total

• Always order ½–1 extra yard, just in case

Shop Now

Explore our drapery section today! We have a wide variety of sheer and opaque options at varying price points. If you are still unsure about the the amount of yards you need, give us a call at 312-922-7250, or send a text to 312-961-5276