Whether you’re looking to dress up your window or just want to add some decor to it, you can easily make your own curtains. You’ll need a little fabric, a window frame, and grommets. Once you’ve got all of the pieces, you’re ready to sew.
Measure The Window Frame
Whether you’re planning to buy curtains or drapes, measuring the window frame is a vital part of the process. There are several ways to measure, but the best method is to double-check the measurements.
To determine the window size, you’ll need to measure the width and height. You can measure from the top to the bottom, or from left to right. You’ll also need to consider how you’re going to mount your curtains.
To measure the length of the curtain, you’ll need to consider the style and look you’re going for. Typically, you’ll want to hang your drapes below the floor. You can do this by hanging them from the sill. However, you can also choose to stop at the trim.
For a more formal look, you’ll want to add 6-12 inches to the bottom of your window. This accounts for the overlap at the top of the recess.
To determine the width of your window, you’ll need to use a metal tape measure. You can also use a retractable tape measure.
The amount of fabric added to the measurements depends on what type of window treatment you’re buying. Grommet curtains usually require about one and a half times the fullness of the pole. You may also need to add hem allowances depending on the lining. You’ll need to multiply the amount of fullness by three if you want wispy curtains.
Calculate The Fabric Measurements
Using a curtain fabric calculator can help you calculate the right amount of fabric for a project. These tools can be used to calculate the length, width, and fullness of the curtain. You can also find calculators that will calculate the total amount of yardage needed for your project.
The first thing you will need to determine is the length of your curtains. This will depend on the style of your curtains. Some styles require that you add extra length to the curtains. For instance, curtains that are gathered and have a decorative header will require a longer length than standard lengths.
Next, you will need to measure the width of the fabric. Typically, you will need to have at least a half inch of extra fabric on each side of the curtain. This is necessary for a seam allowance. You will also need to include a hem allowance. The hem allowance can be as little as one inch or as large as five and a half inches.
You will then need to add the length of the curtains and any hems that you would like to have. For example, if you are making a pair of curtains that are three feet wide, you will need to add two inches to each length. If you are going to make the curtains longer, you will need to add four inches to each length.
Sew The Side Seams
Adding a lining to the side seams of curtains ensures the finished product lies flat. It also allows for matching patterns. The lining is usually narrower than the curtain fabric. It is best to leave a 1″ seam allowance when sewing the lining to the side seams of curtains.
Once the lining is sewn into place, the fabric should be pressed flat. Then, a facing can be stitched to the material for extra strength. The facing can also be top stitched for a neater finish.
To add a lining to the side seams, you will need to cut a piece of lining fabric to the same length as the curtain fabric. This will allow for a band of the main fabric to cover the lining. The lining should be about 4″ wide. This will allow for a vertical seam to be sewn, allowing the lining to be folded over the edges of the curtain fabric.
When sewing the lining to the side seams, it is important to keep the lining free of the main curtain fabric. The lining is thinner than the fabric so it will naturally roll over the curtain.
Next, you will need to pin the lining to the curtain panel. Starting at the center of the lining, pin the fabric and lining together. You may need to use a water-soluble marking pen to mark the width of the curtain panel.
Add Lining
Adding lining to curtains can add a touch of elegance to your interiors. You can do this by simply sewing it directly onto the curtain fabric or joining sections together.
First, measure the length of the curtain. You can use a measuring tape or a ruler. You can use a fabric pen to help mark the measurement. If the fabric is flat, you can use masking tape to help you hold the lining in place.
Next, lay the lining on the curtains with the top facing you. Make sure that the lining is taut and is not pinned in the corners.
Once you have the measurements, it is time to cut the fabric. If your lining is very flat, you can use a ruler to help you cut it. Then fold the side edges over by half an inch and press them. You should also turn the bottom edge over by about 2 inches.
The lining should be cut so that it will be a few inches shorter than the curtain. You should also add about a quarter of an inch of seam allowance to the length.
When you are done, you can either hand-stitch the lining into place or stitch it into the curtain with your sewing machine. You can also attach the lining to the back of the curtains using header tape.
Once you have finished, you should have a lined curtain that is smooth and doesn’t show any wrinkles. You can also add a fusible hemming web to the curtain to finish the hem.
Make Gathers At The Top
Whether you have a curtain rod with a three-inch ruffle, or you prefer a more subtle look, you can create gathers at the top of curtains to give your window treatment a textured finish. The technique can be used to make both opaque and sheer fabric.
First, determine the length of your curtains and the width of the hem. You can either cut the fabric to the required drop or measure the fabric by the meter and cut it to the desired length. For the most consistent results, choose a fabric with an even thickness and a 1.5cm (5/8in) seam allowance.
Once you have your measurements, it is time to select your shirring/pleating tape. You can find this at any fabric store. The shirring/pleating tape should be on the wrong side of the fabric. It should be placed about one inch from the top edge of the curtain. It should also be turned over on each end so that there is no raw edge.
Next, you will need a clear elastic. You can find this at a fabric store or hardware store. It should be a length of fabric that is about a half inch longer than the smallest fabric piece you have chosen. You can either use the elastic straight or stretch it before you stitch. If you do not want to stretch the elastic, you can use a straight pin to mark the curve of the elastic.
Add Grommets
Adding grommets when sewing curtains is a great way to give your drapes an organized look. While this task might seem difficult, it’s actually not. Once you get the hang of it, you’ll know exactly how much fabric you need to cut.
First, lay out your curtain panel on a flat surface. This will help you keep the fabric from touching the wall. You should also take note of how long the curtain rod will need to be so that you can determine how many grommets to install.
Next, add interfacing to the back of the curtain. This will provide a structural base for the grommets and will be a little bit thicker than the main fabric. It will also extend about a half inch above and below the grommets.
Then, you’ll want to cut a circle of fabric that’s slightly larger than the one you’ve drawn. This will make sure that the front of the grommet won’t be too tight around the neck.
When you’ve finished cutting the circle, it’s time to mark out where the grommets are going. You can use a stencil or a marker to do this. The grommets should be spaced 1 1/2 inches from the end and 2 inches from the edge.
Then, place the grommets into the hole and press them down. They should click together when you do this. You should also thread the grommets front and back so that they form a pair of folds.