Mastering Fabric Purchasing
Why patterns increase your cost by 20% and how to account for seams and hems correctly.
The Mathematics of 'Fullness'
If you have a window that is 50 inches wide, you cannot buy 50 inches of fabric. Without "Fullness," the curtain would be a flat sheet with no decorative folds. Most professional decorators use a 2.5 multiplier. This means the actual total width of fabric required is 125 inches.
The Layout Logic
The Pattern Repeat Penalty:
When using fabrics with large floral or geometric patterns, you must ensure that the pattern starts at the same vertical point on every panel. This is called "Pattern Matching." To achieve this, you often have to waste a section of fabric between panels. The larger the pattern (large repeat), the more extra fabric you need to buy.
Interior Design Toolkit
- Paint Coverage Calculator – Match your fabric with the right wall color.
- Electricity Bill Calculator – Budget for your home transformation.
- Water Bill Calculator – Impact of washing new textiles.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is a 'Bolt'?
A bolt is the large roll of fabric found in stores. The width of these bolts is fixed (commonly 54 inches). When you buy "1 yard," you are buying a piece 36 inches long by the full width of the bolt.
Should I wash fabric before cutting?
Yes, if it is a natural fiber like cotton or linen. These can shrink up to 10% on their first wash. If you don't pre-wash, your curtains might become too short after the first time you clean them.