Guidance on Curtain Stack Back

Every detail makes an impact, especially for bespoke curtains. That's why we're sharing this detailed information with you to help you understand stack back in a better way. Make sure the curtain looks exactly like what you dream it to be.

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What is Stack Back?

Stack Back Width

  • Refers to the drape width that stacks at each edge when fully open.
  • Minimizing the stack back width allows your curtains to sit aside and barely touch the windows or sliding doors. It makes for max light and view.

Stack Back Depth

  • Referring to the drape depth that curtains stack back when fully open.
  • Leaving enough space with the stack back depth in mind ensures a crisp look for your curtains to flush in with any hardware, including pole and cornice box.

How to Calculate Stack Back?

Below are the stacking ratios for different curtain head styles:

Responsive Table with Perfect Borders
Header Style Grommet Rod Pocket Pinch Pleat / Euro Pleat Back Tab / Tab Top Flat Panel Ripple Fold
Stack Back Width/ Per Panel Width 8-15% 12-20% 20-25% 20% 15-20% 25-30%
Stack Back Depth 6 1/2 IN 2-3 IN 3 1/2 IN 3-4 IN 4-5 IN 4 1/2 IN
  • Sheer curtains have a minimal stack back width. The thicker the fabrics, the larger the stack backs.

  • The stack back size is calculated in a rough manner, it may vary along with fabrics, add-on linings, puddling, curtain rods, brackets, and even rings.
Illustration of curtain stack back on a window

Stack Back Width Calculator