Window silhouette panel count
Estimate how many Halloween or Christmas window silhouette panels (or poster sheets) you need from window count and panels per window — or from pane size versus sheet size.
panels = windows × panels_per_window OR per_window = ceil(w_in÷panel_w) × ceil(h_in÷panel_h); total = per_window × windows
When to use
This tool helps when you want a window silhouette panel count with the assumptions written down. Use simple mode (panels per window) or sheet mode (pane size ÷ sheet size).
Silhouette panels are cardboard, foam, or poster cutouts taped inside or outside windows for Halloween or holiday scenes.
Confirm whether panels hang inside (safer from weather) or outside before buying weatherproof stock.
Simple mode is fastest; sheet mode tiles panels across each pane.
How many windows get silhouettes.
Used in simple mode (often 1 scene per window).
Sheet mode: visible glass width.
Sheet mode: visible glass height.
Sheet mode: each cutout or poster sheet width.
Sheet mode: each cutout or poster sheet height.
Worked example
Simple defaults — 4 windows × 1 panel = 4 panels.
Sheet example: pane 30×48 with sheets 24×36 → ceil(30/24)×ceil(48/36) = 2×2 = 4 panels per window; ×4 windows = 16.
When the calculator and scratch math disagree, fix inches first; overlaps and muntins may change the real layout.
Limits / assumptions
Units: inches for pane and sheet sizes; whole counts for windows. Mixing without converting invents a wrong answer.
Where the formula fails: arched windows, French panes, and overlapping art are outside the simple grid model.
Not a substitute: the window silhouette panel count is a planning aid — not a product warranty.
This counts panels/sheets only — not window-candle counts or projection throw.
If mounting outside, use weatherproof materials and secure fasteners so panels cannot fly off in wind. Keep interior panels clear of hot bulbs and candles.
FAQ
One scene per window?
Yes — set panels per window to 1 in simple mode for a single silhouette per opening.
Double-hung vs picture?
Measure the visible glass you want covered; ignore frames unless panels mount on the frame.
Printable sheets?
Use sheet mode with your paper size (e.g. 11×17 or 24×36 poster) against the pane size.
Outside vs inside?
Inside stays dry; outside needs weatherproof stock and safer mounting.