Deciding Curtain Width With 72 Inch Window

When selecting curtains to beautifully frame a 72-inch wide window, one of the most important calculations is determining the appropriate curtain width and fullness. With ample fabric generously spanning the window, curtains can truly transform the aesthetic of a room.

From precise measuring techniques to style recommendations,fabric considerations, and proper installation methods, we have you covered!

Measuring the Window

Before even thinking about curtains, it's essential to accurately measure the exact width of your window. This ensures you purchase curtain panels wide enough to completely cover the window when closed. It also prevents wasting money on curtains too narrow or short.

Finding the Precise Width

Always use a steel tape measure for precision. Determine the window frame width by measuring from inside edge to inside edge. For the most accuracy, take the measurement in multiple spots and use the largest size. Round up to the nearest whole inch - so a 72 1/4-inch window would be rounded up to 73 inches.

If you plan to install an extended curtain rod flanking the window, measure this desired overall rod length instead. This extended measurement will dictate the curtain width you need.

Accounting for Hardware and Clearance

When determining target curtain width, factor in additional width to accommodate hardware and light blocking:

• Add 2-3 inches for standard rod brackets
• Add 3-4 inches for thicker specialty decorative brackets
• Add 1-2 inches of overlap on each side for complete light blockage

So for a 72-inch window with ornate brackets extending rods 2 inches beyond the frame on both sides, calculate: - 72" window - + 4" for decorative rods - + 4" for extended rod ends = 80" total curtain width needed

Consider Mounting Location

Curtain width calculations also depend on mounting location:

• Above Frame: Exact window width or a few inches wider
• On Frame: Add at least 2" more for overlap
• Extending Beyond Frame: Add extension amount + 1-2" overlap per side

Common Curtain Width Standards

Here are typical width guidelines for a 72" window based on length and fullness preferences:

Long, Full Floor-to-Ceiling Curtains

For a visually commanding statement, choose extreme length curtains puddling onto the floor around window. These require substantial width to prevent a skinny stranded look. For proper coverage, select panels 2 to 3 times your window's width. So for a 72-inch wide sill, curtains 144 to 216 inches wide make sense.

Narrow floor-length curtains can appear odd and cheapen windows, so don't skimp on fabric here. When estimating measurements, always round up a few inches to be safe.

Standard Sill-Length Curtains

The most popular standard is sill-length curtains just kissing the window sill. These draw the eye beautifully to windows as a focal point while softening edges. For correctly scaled sill curtains, you'll need panels 1.5 to 2.5 times your window's width. So for 72 inches across, target panel widths ranging from 108 to 180 inches wide.

Maximum Fullness Look

For a lavish look with billowing drapery folds, panels 2.5 to 3 times the window width make sense. So for 72 inches wide, panels 180 to 216 inches across create that crisp tailored House Beautiful aesthetic.

Above Window or Between Mount Treatments

If treating a large window with framed valances, swags, or cornices up top, sheer curtains allow filtering natural light below. For these accent panels flanking window sides, calculate:

• Exact window width
• Up to 20 inches wider per panel

So one 50-inch wide sheer panel on each side works beautifully for a 72-inch wide window without overwhelming.

Calculating Curtain Width Formulas

Use these formulas to calculate the ideal curtain width for your 72-inch sill ensuring proper fit and visual balance:

Fullness Multiplier Method

Simply multiply your window's width by the recommended fullness ratio for your chosen curtain style:

• Sheers: Width x 1
• Lightly Lined: Width x 1.2
• Interlined: Width x 1.5
• Soft Drapes: Width x 2
• Formal Drapes: Width x 2.5+

So for softly flowing lined curtains, calculate 72 inches x 1.25 = 90 inches total width. Round up for safety.

Number of Panels Method

If opting for common panel sets, an easy formula is:

• 2 Panels: Width x 2 = Total Width
• 1.5 Panels: Width x 1.5 = Total Width
• 1 Panel: Width x 1 = Total Width

For example, 2 panels flanking that 72" window would be 72 x 2 = 144 inches total width.

Adding Extra Width

After calculating initial widths, add extra inches for insurance:

• + 2 inches room to maneuver
• + 1 inch if playing safe
• + 3-4 inches for super full look

Hanging Curtains Like a Pro

Carefully installing curtain rods is crucial for functionality and aesthetics. Follow professional standards:

Rod Length Guidelines

First calculate target rod length based on the window frame width and height, then your preferred mounting location. Common options:

• 3-5" above frame
• Extending past frame 3-7" on each side
• Floor to ceiling

Mounting Technique

Utilize adhesive no-damage brackets like Kwik-Hang with drill-free installation between studs for safety and less hassle. Level rods meticulously so panels hang cleanly for optimal flow and stacking.

Check manufacturer specifications for proper bracket spacing given curtain weights. Heavier fabrics require closer stud anchoring.

Ensuring Proper Drape & Stack-Back

When fully drawn, correctly sized curtains should generously cover window edges to darken and insulate. Open curtains should fold back smoothly without bulging off the rods or dangling oddly.

Special Considerations

Although lovely when executed properly, extra wide curtain panels spanning 72 inches across present unique challenges:

Weight and Bulk Concerns

The wider the curtain, the heavier and bulkier fabric gets. This strains weaker rods, causing sagging issues over time. Combat this by selecting extendable sturdy steel rods designed for heavier weights. Also opt for thicker lined curtains rather than heavy fabrics which overwhelm rods and gathering mechanisms.