Dimensions of California King Dust Ruffles

Formula

• The dust ruffle hangs from the top of the box spring to the floor. Calculate the dimensions as twice the length of the mattress plus the width of the mattress for the ruffle's length. Add 25% to 50% for gathering. The measurement from the top of the box spring to the floor provides the ruffle's depth. Commercially available ruffles come in depths, also known as drop length, varying between 10 and 22 inches to accommodate the wide variety of possible combinations.

Mattress Area

• A California king or Western king mattress differs from a traditional king in both length and width. The slightly narrower and longer California king measures 72 inches wide and 84 inches long, versus the 76- by 80-inch standard king's dimensions.

Box Springs

• The California king uses a pair of 36-inch wide box springs to support the mattress. The combined width of the two box springs matches the mattress width. Box springs can vary in height. Measure the box springs to be covered to ascertain the correct height for the calculations.

Bed Frame

• Bed frames vary in height due to style considerations. This variability affects the dust ruffle calculation. Any risers added under the bed frame's feet will add to the required ruffle length. Take the combined height into consideration for dust ruffles. The dust ruffle should reach just to the floor, not rest on it. Extra length can create a safety hazard.

Do-It-Yourself

• For a DIY dust ruffle project, take into account the pattern repeat, if any, when calculating the required fabric. Allow extra yardage to match the pattern repeat.