So the rod I linked will work with the curtain style I linked? Great! I didn't know if I could use this "pocket top" style curtain panel or if I had to look for something pre-pleated.??

I planned to use 3 or 4 panels. I will probably have my sewing lady put a solid backing on them and maybe sew them all together as well. Is that a good idea?

Also, how far past the window/door should I extend the rod? Do I extend it on both sides or just past the right where the curtain panels will stack into the corner?

I had a similar problem and ended up buying curtains at Target and having a curtain lady add hooks in the back (I didn't want clips showing and wanted the curtains closer to the ceiling). She also sewed two panels together on either side so I didn't have gaps when closing the curtains.

Great idea having them lined and the panels sewn together.

You should probably get the largest rod you can, that will extend a minimum of 12 - 14 inches beyond the edge of the window on both sides. (A ready made rod may be a challenge with this - there aren't many over 8' that are traversing that are available off the shelf)

A good rule of thumb for the panels, is that you want about double the width of the glass - so that when the drapery is closed, there will still be softness and movement in the fabric. (You don't want to have the fabric pulled flat when they are closed, because it tends to cheapen the look)

can you use wave tape with this rod?