Discover the Perfect Extra Wide and Extra Long Curtain
Last Update: April 2025
Hello everyone, James here from Dolcewe.com, where we've specialized in custom size curtains for over a decade.
Today I want to dive deep into the world of extra wide and long curtains and share some insights to help you find the perfect window treatment for your home.
Key Takeaways
| Main Section | Key Takeaway |
|---|---|
| What Are Extra Wide and Extra Long Curtains? | Extra wide curtains (100+ inches) and extra long curtains (up to 144 inches) provide complete coverage for oversized windows and high ceilings. Measure your windows carefully to determine if you need these special sizes for proper coverage and visual impact. |
| Why You Need Extra Wide and Long Curtains | Properly sized curtains reduce energy costs by up to 10% in winter and block up to 33% of solar heat in summer. Choose thick fabrics like velvet or linen for better insulation, and select the right opacity level (blackout, room darkening, or light filtering) based on your privacy and light control needs. |
| Types of Extra Wide and Long Curtains You Can Choose | Select blackout curtains for bedrooms (blocks 99% light), room darkening for living areas (blocks 95-99%), or sheer curtains for an airy feel with some privacy. Consider practical benefits of different mounting styles like easy-sliding grommet tops for daily use or elegant pinch pleats for a more formal look. |
| How to Measure for Your Perfect Curtains | For proper fullness, multiply your window width by 1.5-3 times depending on desired look, and add 8-12 inches extra width for proper coverage when open. Measure from rod to desired endpoint (floor, 1/2" above floor, or 2-6" extra for puddling) for correct length that avoids common measuring mistakes. |
| Styling Tips for a Pro Look | Mount curtain rods 4-6 inches above windows and extend 8-12 inches beyond each side to make windows appear larger and taller. Layer curtains (sheers plus thicker panels) for versatile light control and added dimension to your room design. |
| How to Care for Big Curtains | Vacuum curtains monthly with a soft brush attachment and follow fabric-specific cleaning methods (machine wash for polyester, dry clean for velvet/linen). Store seasonal curtains in cotton bags (not plastic) after cleaning to maintain fabric quality and prevent creasing. |
| Why Shop at Dolcewe for Your Curtains | Dolcewe offers truly custom sizes up to 150 inches wide and 144 inches long, with prices starting at just $26.99 and free shipping on orders over $199. Get free fabric samples to test in your home and save 10% on your first order with code WELCOME10. |
Understanding Extra Wide and Long Curtains
Extra wide curtains are bigger than normal curtains. Normal curtains are about 50 inches wide. Extra wide ones are 100 inches or wider. They work great for big windows and sliding doors.
Extra long curtains go beyond normal lengths. Standard curtains are 84, 96, 108, or 120 inches long. Extra long ones can reach up to 144 inches. They look amazing in rooms with high ceilings.
We make curtains in any size you need at Dolcewe. Your windows are special. Your curtains should be too.
Benefits of Extra Wide and Long Curtains
Enhanced Insulation
Curtains and drapes provide an extra layer of insulation over your windows.
- In the winter, they can reduce heat loss by up to 10%.
- In the summer, blackout curtains can block out sunlight and heat, reducing solar gain by up to 33%.
The key is to choose curtains that are thick and tightly woven, like linen curtains or velvet curtains.
Thermal or insulated curtains have a special lining that provides even more protection.
For maximum insulation, make sure your curtains extend past the window frame on all sides and puddle slightly on the floor.
Improved Light Control
Extra wide and long curtains give you more flexibility with light control.
| Curtain Type | Light Blocking | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Blackout | Blocks 99% of light | Bedrooms, baby rooms |
| Room Darkening | Blocks 95-99% of light | Living rooms, TV rooms |
| Light Filtering | Lets some light through | Kitchens, dining rooms |
Consider a double rod system with two layers of curtains - sheers for daytime and a thicker option for nighttime. This allows you to easily adjust light levels throughout the day.
Added Privacy
Large windows are beautiful, but can sometimes make a room feel exposed.
Extra wide and long curtains create a strong barrier against prying eyes.
For complete privacy, choose curtains that are thick and opaque, like blackout curtains.
For rooms that need less privacy, like living rooms or kitchens, semi sheer curtains or lighter weight options work well.
Elevated Style
Floor-to-ceiling curtains create an elegant, upscale look in any room. The longer length makes windows feel taller and draws the eye upward.
Extra wide panels have a full, lush appearance and allow for a beautiful draping effect.
Don't be afraid to go bold with color or pattern to make a real style statement.
Curtains are an easy way to incorporate a trending look, like jewel tones, large-scale florals, or earthy textures.
Types of Extra Wide and Long Curtains You Can Choose
By Light Control/Opacity - Sheer Curtains & More
- Blackout Curtains: These stop almost all light. They're perfect for bedrooms and TV rooms. They also help keep heat in or out.
- Room Darkening Curtains: These block most light but not all. They work well in living rooms.
- Sheer Curtains: Allow natural light to pass through while diffusing it.
By Material
| Material | Features |
|---|---|
| Polyester | Affordable, easy care, various colors/patterns |
| Linen Curtain | Natural, breathable, luxurious look |
| Velvet | Rich, dramatic, good light blocking |
| Faux Linen | Affordable, soft, elegant |
How They Hang
Grommet Top Curtain: Metal rings at the top make them easy to open. They create even folds.
Rod Pocket: The rod slides into a pocket at the top. This gives a gathered look
Back Tab Hanging: Hidden tabs make curtains look like they float on the rod.
Ring Tops: Curtains with rings sewn onto the top edge, allowing them to slide easily along a curtain rod. Compatible with various curtain rods and decorative finials.
Pinch Pleats: A classic and elegant style featuring evenly spaced pleats pinched and sewn at the top of the curtain panel. Pinch pleat curtains are hung using curtain hooks or rings attached to the back of each pleat, creating a neat, uniform look with added fullness and a graceful drape. Available in single, double, and triple pinch pleat styles.
Measuring for Wide and Long Drapes
To get the perfect fit, precise measurements are key. Here's how to measure your windows for extra wide and long curtains:
Getting the Width Right
- Measure your curtain rod end to end.
- Add 8-12 inches to this number.
- This extra space lets curtains frame your window.
- For proper fullness, use this table:
| Look You Want | How to Calculate |
|---|---|
| Flat look | Multiply window width by 1.5 |
| Normal fullness | Multiply window width by 2 |
| Extra full look | Multiply window width by 2.5-3 |
Getting the Length Right
- Measure from the rod to where you want curtains to end.
- For curtains that touch the floor, measure to the floor.
- For a puddled look, add 2-6 extra inches.
- For curtains above the floor, measure to 1/2 inch above floor.
Getting the right size is easy. But if you're not sure, we can help you at Dolcewe.
Styling Extra Wide and Long Curtain Panels
Hang Them High
Put your curtain rod 4-6 inches above your window. This makes windows look taller.
For a bold look, hang curtains near the ceiling. This works great in rooms with high ceilings.
Make Windows Look Wider
Extend your curtain rod 8-12 inches past the window on each side. This makes windows look wider.
When open, curtains should frame your window, not block it.
Layer for Better Look and Use
Use two curtain rods to layer curtains. Try sheer ones in front and thicker ones behind.
This gives you more control over light and privacy all day long.
Color and Pattern Tips
Light colors make rooms feel bigger. Dark colors make rooms feel cozy.
Match curtains to your wall color for a smooth look. Or pick a color that stands out.
Patterns add fun to a room. Big patterns work in big rooms. Small patterns work better in small rooms.
Choosing Wide and Long Curtains
When selecting extra wide and long curtains, consider the following factors:
- Size: Refer to the measuring guide in the previous section to ensure a proper fit.
- Light Control Needs: Determine the level of light filtration you require (refer to the types of curtains by light control/opacity).
- Material: Choose a material based on your desired look, functionality, and budget (refer to the types of curtains by material).
- Style: Select a style that complements your room's decor (refer to the types of curtains by attachment style).
Additionally, keep these tips in mind:
- Color Psychology: Light colors like white curtains can make a room feel more spacious, while dark colors create a cozy atmosphere. Beige curtains are a versatile neutral.
- Patterns: Patterned curtains add visual interest but may overwhelm small spaces.
How to Care for Big Curtains
Regular Care
Vacuum curtains once a month with a soft brush. This keeps dust away.
Shake out curtains each week to remove loose dust.
Cleaning Different Fabrics
| Material | How to Clean | How Often |
|---|---|---|
| Polyester | Machine wash gentle | Every 3-6 months |
| Linen | Dry clean only | Once a year |
| Velvet | Professional clean | Once a year |
| Sheer | Hand wash or gentle cycle | Every 6 months |
Check the care tags on your curtains. They will tell you the best way to clean them.
Storing Curtains
If you change curtains with the seasons:
- Clean them before you put them away.
- Fold them loosely to avoid hard creases.
- Store in cotton bags, not plastic.
- Keep in a cool, dry place.
Good care makes curtains last longer. They will look nice for many years.
Why Shop at Dolcewe for Your Curtains
We Make Any Size You Need
At Dolcewe, we create curtains to fit any window. You can order:
- Widths up to 150 inches
- Lengths up to 144 inches
- Custom fullness levels
We cut and sew each curtain just for you. No more settling for almost-right sizes.
Pick From Many Fabrics
We offer lots of fabric choices:
- Blackout fabrics in over 50 colors
- Linen in natural and dyed options
- Velvet in rich, deep colors
- Sheer fabrics for a light, airy look
You can even get free fabric samples to test in your home first.
Prices That Make Sense
Our custom curtains start at just $26.99. That's much less than other custom curtain shops.
We offer free shipping on orders over $199. You can also save 10% on your first order with code WELCOME10.
Custom doesn't have to mean costly. We make luxury extra long and extra wide curtains that fit your budget.
