Understanding Stack Back: The Key to Choosing the Right Drapes
Have you ever wondered how large of drapes you should get to fill your space? Choosing the right size of drapes or curtains for your windows can be a tricky task, especially if you want them to look proportional and aesthetically pleasing in your space. One important factor to consider when selecting the size of your drapes is the stack back, or the amount of space that the curtains will occupy when pulled back or fully opened. By calculating the stack back, you can ensure that your drapes will not only fit your window but also create an appealing look when they are pulled back. In this blog post, we’ll take you through the steps of how to calculate the stack back on drapes to help you choose the perfect size for your space.
The Importance of Stack Back in Drapery Design
Stack back is a term used to refer to the amount of space that drapes or curtains occupy when they are fully opened or pulled back. It is an essential consideration when designing or installing window treatments, as it can affect the overall appearance and functionality of the curtains. Proper stack back can ensure that the curtains do not block any light or obstruct any views when pulled back while also adding an extra element of style to your space.
Calculating Stack Back: Step by Step
To calculate stack back, you will need to take a few measurements and make some calculations. Here are the steps you should follow:
- Measure the width of the window: Start by measuring the width of the window frame, including any trim or molding. This measurement will help you determine the amount of fabric you will need to cover the window.
- Determine the desired fullness of the curtains: Fullness refers to the amount of fabric used to cover the window compared to the width of the window. A fullness of 1.5 to 2 times the width of the window is typical for most drapes. However, this can vary depending on the style of the curtains and personal preference.
- Calculate the fabric width: To calculate the fabric width, multiply the width of the window by the desired fullness. For example, if the window is 60 inches wide and the desired fullness is 1.5, the fabric width would be 90 inches (60 x 1.5).
- Determine the amount of fabric needed for the stack back: The stack back is the amount of fabric that will be visible when the curtains are fully open or pulled back. To calculate the stack back, measure the distance from the edge of the window frame to the point where you want the curtains to be pulled back. This distance will depend on the style of the curtains and the hardware used to hold them back.
- Calculate the stack back width: To calculate the stack back width, multiply the distance from the edge of the window frame to the point where you want the curtains to be pulled back by 2. This will give you the total amount of space that the curtains will occupy when pulled back. For example, if the distance from the edge of the window frame to the point where you want the curtains to be pulled back is 12 inches, the stack back width would be 24 inches (12 x 2).
- Subtract the stack back width from the fabric width: Finally, subtract the stack back width from the fabric width to determine the width of the fabric needed for the curtains when they are fully closed. For example, if the fabric width is 90 inches and the stack back width is 24 inches, the width of the fabric needed for the curtains when fully closed would be 66 inches (90 – 24).
In conclusion, calculating the stack back of drapes or curtains is an essential step in achieving a balanced and attractive window treatment. While the process may seem confusing or overwhelming, following the steps outlined above will help you determine the perfect size for your space. However, if you still find yourself struggling or unsure about the right measurements, don’t hesitate to contact Susan Gailani and schedule a design consultation. As a professional window treatment specialist, she can help you navigate the process and ensure that you end up with beautiful, functional, and perfectly sized drapes for your home.
