Curtain Size For Sliding Door

Curtain Size for Sliding Door

Sliding doors, with their ability to seamlessly connect interior and exterior spaces, have become increasingly popular in modern homes. Curtains play a crucial role in enhancing the functionality, aesthetics, and privacy of sliding doors. Determining the correct curtain size is essential to optimize their effectiveness and create a cohesive design scheme.

Measuring for Curtain Length

The ideal curtain length for a sliding door depends on the desired look and the specific dimensions of the door and window frames:

Floor-Length Curtains: For a dramatic and elegant effect, floor-length curtains extend to the floor, grazing the surface or puddling slightly. Measure the distance from the top of the curtain rod to the floor, adding 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) for the desired puddle length.

Sill-Length Curtains: A more casual and practical option, sill-length curtains fall just below the window sill. Measure the distance from the top of the curtain rod to the window sill, subtracting 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) to prevent the curtains from touching the sill.

Apron-Length Curtains: Apron-length curtains, also known as bistro curtains, are a unique style that covers only the bottom portion of the window. Measure the distance from the top of the curtain rod to the desired apron length, typically 24-36 inches (60-90 cm).

Measuring for Curtain Width

The curtain width should be sufficient to cover the sliding door and extend beyond the edges for a fuller, more polished look:

Sliding Door Width: Measure the width of the sliding door frame, including any trim or molding. Add 12-24 inches (30-60 cm) to the measurement for ample fullness.

Window Overlap: If there is a window adjacent to the sliding door, consider overlapping the curtains onto the window frame to create a cohesive window treatment. Measure the distance from the edge of the sliding door frame to the edge of the window frame, and add 6-12 inches (15-30 cm) to the curtain width.

Stack Back: Stack back refers to the amount of fabric that will be gathered when the curtains are open. A stack back of 2-3 times the curtain width ensures proper stacking without appearing overly bulky.

Additional Considerations

When determining the curtain size for a sliding door, consider the following additional factors:

Curtain Heading: The curtain heading, such as grommets, tabs, or rod pockets, affects the overall length. Allow extra fabric for the heading, typically 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) per curtain panel.

Hardware: The type of curtain rod and brackets used can influence the curtain length. Measure the distance between the top of the brackets and the desired curtain length to ensure the curtains hang correctly.

Light Control: The opacity of the curtains affects the amount of light they block. Thicker, more opaque fabrics may require wider curtains to achieve the desired light control.

Style and Aesthetics: Different curtain styles and aesthetic preferences can impact the desired curtain size. For example, sheer curtains may be wider to create a more ethereal effect, while heavy drapes may be narrower to maintain a tailored look.