Why Ready-Made Curtains Fall Short on Large Windows and Sliding Doors
Are Ready-Made Curtains Wide Enough for Your Large Windows or Sliding Glass Doors?
If you’ve ever stood in front of your 12-foot sliding glass door wondering how many panels to buy, you’ve probably run into the ready-made curtain struggle.
The problem? Most off-the-shelf curtain panels are just 50 inches wide. That doesn’t go far when trying to cover 144 inches of glass.
Understanding Curtain Fullness and Stack-Back
A 50" curtain panel may look wide, but once it’s pleated or gathered, that width shrinks fast. And if you want your curtains to open and close easily (instead of staying stationary), you’ll need even more width to account for coverage that looks good and doesn’t just look like a flat sheet! Plus, where will all of these panels stack back when opened? Will they cover too much glass or get in the way of the door functioning?
For example:
- A 144" wide slider needs 288" of fabric for full functionality and fullness
- That’s at least 6–8 panels if you’re using ready-made options
- Result: too many seams, awkward stacking, uneven fullness, and a not-so-polished look
- No planning for stack-back with too much coverage of the glass door.
The Custom Solution for a Clean, Functional Look
With custom drapery, you’ll get precisely the width and fullness you need—no guesswork. And we can tailor your solution to fit your lifestyle and preferences:
- Stationary side panels that frame your door beautifully without getting in the way
- Functioning drapery that opens smoothly and stacks off the glass
- Motorized roller shades or Smart Drapes paired with fabric panels for privacy, insulation, and convenience
No more piecing together mismatched panels or dealing with frustrating gaps. Just one seamless, stylish solution.
🦉 Wise Tip from Buddy:
Using four store-bought panels to cover a 12-foot slider is like trying to stretch two twin sheets over a king bed. It might technically “work,” but it won’t look good or function well.
Let Budget Blinds of Boise Design It Right
At Budget Blinds of Boise, we specialize in custom drapery and layered window treatment solutions for large windows and sliding doors. We’ll show you beautiful, high-functioning options like:
- Smart Drape™, for a soft vertical look with walk-through convenience
- Motorized roller shades for effortless privacy and UV protection
- Vadain’s modern wave drape, for a clean, minimal aesthetic with luxurious movement
We’ll help you make the wise choice for every window in your home, especially the big ones.
Call today to schedule a complimentary in-home consultation or stop by our showroom in Meridian at Chinden and Linder!