What Curtain Width Should You Buy at Terry’s Fabrics?
Work out curtain panel widths, fullness and drop at Terry's Fabrics, then compare delivery, fittings and return costs before choosing a pair.
On this page
A curtain size can look too small until you realise it describes one panel. It can also look generous while leaving very little fabric for folds. Before choosing a reduced pair at Terry’s Fabrics, work out the width you need across the whole pole, then compare the price for the correct drop and heading.
That makes the saving meaningful: you are comparing curtains that will actually fit, rather than the cheapest size in a range.
Read the width as one panel, then check the pair
Terrys’ ready-made curtain guide says its curtains are sold in pairs and the stated dimensions describe each curtain. A pair labelled 168cm wide therefore contains two panels with a combined flat width of 336cm. You do not need to buy two pairs simply to get two curtains.
Use the fitted pole or track as your starting point. Measure a pole between the decorative ends, excluding those ends. For an overlapping track, follow the retailer’s instructions for including both sections. Keep your actual measurements separate from the size you are considering ordering.
Calculate the fullness before choosing a cheaper width
Fullness describes how much fabric is available compared with the span it covers. For a straightforward pair, divide the combined flat panel width by the pole width. Here is an illustrative calculation for a 160cm pole:
| Width of each panel | Total flat width | Total divided by 160cm |
|---|---|---|
| 117cm | 234cm | 1.46 |
| 168cm | 336cm | 2.10 |
| 228cm | 456cm | 2.85 |
The middle option provides just over twice the pole width in fabric. The narrowest pair has much less allowance for folds; the widest uses considerably more material. These figures explain the trade-off, but they are not a universal fit guarantee. Use the size calculator for the selected product and check its heading requirements before ordering. Terrys’ own guide recommends double width for a fuller appearance.
Check the heading and drop before paying
An eyelet heading needs a compatible pole. Pencil pleat curtains use hooks and can work with suitable rings or a track. An existing track may therefore make a pencil pleat pair cheaper overall than replacing the hardware to accommodate eyelets. Check pole diameter, fittings and the curtain’s stated requirements together.
The drop is measured from the relevant hanging point to the intended finishing point. Terrys’ guidance starts eyelet measurements at the top of the pole; curtains on rings have a different starting point. Follow the instructions for your chosen heading, including any allowance above the pole, rather than copying the old curtain’s length.
If the available drop needs shortening, get an alteration price before treating the pair as a bargain. Decide where the hem should finish and check the space around furniture, doors and radiators. Keep packaging and avoid cutting or altering anything until you have confirmed the fit and your return options.
Compare the delivered price without adding unwanted extras
On 9 November 2026, Terrys listed standard mainland UK delivery for ready-made curtains at £3.99, with free delivery from £75 on qualifying orders where an appropriate carrier is available. Other locations and product categories have different charges, so check the final basket for your address.
For example, a hypothetical £66 pair plus £3.99 delivery totals £69.99. Adding an unwanted £10 item to qualify for free delivery would make the order £76: £6.01 more. Combining purchases only helps when the additional item was already needed.
Once the size is settled, check the conditions attached to any Terry’s Fabrics discount code. Confirm that it applies to the selected curtains and compare the final total after delivery.
Use Argos for a like-for-like comparison
Argos is a useful alternative for standard ready-made eyelet curtains. Its Home Check Blackout Eyelet Curtains listing, for example, specifies a 168cm panel width and 183cm drop, with a 4cm eyelet diameter; the pole is not included. Match those details, the lining and care instructions to your shortlist rather than comparing colour alone.
Check local stock and collection or delivery options, then review any Argos discount code against the complete order. Neither retailer is automatically cheaper for your particular window.
Allow for a possible return too. Terrys’ published policy says its returns service is not free and asks for original packaging and saleable condition. Confirm the return cost before buying several sizes to try. The best-value pair is the one that fits your measurements and existing fittings at a total you are comfortable paying.
