When ordering rod pocket curtains you will need to decide on the size you want for the header and rod pocket. The rod pocket size should be made so that when you put your rod into the pocket the panel is fairly snug fitting.
You definitely do not want to use a standard 1” rod with a 3” rod pocket, the curtain will not stay shirred properly and will look flat.
A 1 ½” rod pocket should be used on a standard 1” curtain rod or with a decorative rod 13/16” diameter or smaller.
A 3” rod pocket should be used on a standard 2 ½” continental or dauphine rod or on a decorative rod 1 3/8” – 1 ½ ” diameter.
We suggest using a 3” rod pocket when you have full length drapes and have no intention of using a valance over your curtain panels and use a 1 ½” rod pocket when you intend on using a top treatment over your drapes.
The header size is usually determined if you are intending is using a top treatment or not. If using a top treatment we suggest ordering panels with out a header. If the panels are to stand alone panels then the header size can range from no header (for a more contemporary look) to either a 1” or 2” header based on personal preference.
The header is the ruffling part of the panel that sits above the rod.