Calculating the Quantity of Curtain Rings for Your Rods

What you will find in this Guide (3min read)

Introduction

Key Formula

Typical Spacings for Hanging Styles

• Casual Look

• Softly Tailored Look

• Richly Gathered Look

Notes and considerations

Quick Reference Table

Introduction

Curtain rings aid in hanging and sliding curtains along a rod. The number of rings depends on rod length, desired fullness, and curtain style. This guide uses a 2100 mm rod to illustrate how to estimate ring count.

Key Formula

Rings required = Rod Span divided by ring spacing. 
*Wider spacing means fewer rings; tighter spacing means more rings.

Typical Spacings for Hanging Styles

Casual Look 
Curtains hung for a casual look present an uncomplicated, relaxed feel. The fabric drapes softly with gentle, even folds and a light, unobtrusive header—often a simple rod pocket, tab top, or a basic pleat that doesn’t pin the fabric into tight, rigid shapes. Rings or hooks are spaced relatively wide (around 100 mm apart in many setups), delivering a laid-back sweep with visible but unobtrusive movement. The overall effect is airy, easy going, and versatile, suitable for everyday living spaces where comfort and practicality trump formal polish. Key elements:

• Moderate to light fabric weight for easy handling
• Wider ring spacing for a relaxed drape
• Minimal or no elaborate pleating
• Simple hardware that blends with the room’s decor
• Clean, uncomplicated hems and edges for a casual vibe
  
  

Ring Calculation

Generally, rings for a casual look are spaced approximately 100mm apart. Based upon this estimate, the number of rings required is calculated as:

Rod length: 2100mm 
Spacing distance: 100mm

Rod length divided by spacing

2100/ 100

= 21 rings

Softly Tailored Look

A curtain hung for a softly tailored look strikes a balanced, polished tone. The fabric falls in gentle, well-defined folds that hold their shape without appearing stiff. Header details are usually neater—think soft pinch-pleats or a tailored box-pleat, or a clean rod pocket with light draping. Ring or hook spacing is intermediate (around 60–70 mm apart), giving a steady, even sweep that enhances the drape without looking flimsy or overly formal. The room feels put-together yet approachable, with enough fullness to frame the window nicely while preserving easy light control.

Key elements:

• Medium-weight fabric with a soft, structured drape
• Ring spacing about 60–70 mm for balanced fullness
• Neatly finished hems and minimal decorative hardware
• Versatile look that suits living spaces, dining areas, and bedrooms without feeling overly dressy
  
  

Ring Calculation

Rings for a softly tailored look are spaced approximately 60-70mm apart, depending on your preference.

Rod length: 2100mm 
Spacing distance: 70mm

Rod length divided by spacing

2100/ 70

= 30 rings

Richly Gathered Look

A curtain hung for a full look wraps the window in a lush, enveloping drape. The fabric appears rich and voluminous, with many tight folds and a strong sense of body and texture. Header details are often heavily tailored—think pinch-pleats or box-pleats that create structured, prominent fullness. Ring or hook spacing is tight (around 40–50 mm apart), producing a dense, rippled sweep that looks substantial even when the curtain is drawn. The overall effect is opulent and cinematic, lending a sense of grandeur and coziness to the room.

Key elements:

• Heavier or multi-layered fabric to enhance body and opacity
• Dense fullness with clearly defined folds
• Pleated or heavily tailored header (pinch-pleat, box-pleat) for strong structure
• Tight ring spacing (roughly 40–50 mm) for a compact, plush appearance
• Substantial hems and richer texture to emphasize weight and presence
• Suitable for formal spaces or rooms where a dramatic, luxurious atmosphere is desired

Ring Calculation

Rings for a Richly Gathered look are spaced approximately 40-50mm apart, depending on your preference.

Rod length: 2100mm 
Spacing distance: 50mm

Rod length divided by spacing

2100/ 50

= 42 rings

Notes and considerations

·         Always round up to a whole ring.

·         If using pleated curtains, add rings per pleat as required by the header design.

·         Check manufacturer recommendations for your curtain type.

·         For very light fabrics, you may use fewer rings; for heavier fabrics, more rings help distribute weight.

Quick Reference Table