How to Determine Widths for Curtain Rod Pockets

Measure carefully to get the correct width for your curtain rod pockets.

Curtain rod pockets are slots designed into the top of a curtain that are sized to allow a curtain to slide over and gather on the rod. This type of curtain has limited side movement and is intended to stay in one position on the rod once the rod is installed. The curtains can be opened by swagging the panels to each side and holding them open with tiebacks. Some rod pocket curtains will open a few inches in the center if the pocket is loose enough for the fabric to slide easily.

Things You'll Need

• Curtain rod
• Sewing tape measure

Instructions

1. Measure the circumference of your curtain rod using a flexible sewing measuring tape.

2. Add 1/4 inch for a tight-fitting casing (the pocket is called a casing). Add up to 1 inch for a loose-fitting casing.

3. Divide your combined measurement in half. This will give you the distance you need between the two seams that form the curtain casing. When a curtain is sewn, the top edge of the fabric is hemmed and then folded down several inches. Two seams are sewn through the two pieces of the folded fabric parallel to each other to form the casing.

Tips & Warnings

• Sew a small sample piece on scrap fabric and test the casing size on the curtain rod to achieve the fit you want.

References

• My Curtain Styles: Rod Pocket Curtains