How to Make Curtains
Make a simple set of curtains to match any décor and keep the sun's harmful rays from waking you from your beauty sleep.
Up next in Easy Sewing Projects (45 videos)
All you need is a needle, thread, some fabric, and these step by step instructions to start sewing.
You Will Need
- Measuring tape
- Iron and ironing board
- Fabric
- Scissors
- Straight pins
- Sewing machine
- Thread
- Bed sheets (optional)
Steps
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Step 1
Measure
Measure the window for which you will be making curtains and determine the length at which you would like the curtains to fall.
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Measure the length of the curtains from the curtain rod to the point below the window where they will end. Curtains should extend out past the window casement to block out sunlight.
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Step 2
Add hem allowances
Add 6 inches to the length and 4 inches to the width to allow for the hem.
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Step 3
Iron fabric
Iron your fabric.
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Don't overlook those nice sheets that no longer fit your new bed.
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Step 4
Measure fabric and cut
Cut out your curtain panels with the additional length and width for hems.
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Step 5
Lay out and fold side over
Lay one curtain right side down. Fold the sides over 1/2 inch, toward the wrong side of the fabric, and fold over again.
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Step 6
Iron
Iron the folded edges into place and pin down with straight pins.
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The rough edge or selvage should be tucked into the fold. This keeps your hems from raveling and prevents loose threads peeking out.
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Step 7
Stitch sides
Stitch the hemmed sides into place on a sewing machine. Stitch close to the fold farthest away from the edge. Remove pins as you go.
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Step 8
Lay out and fold top hem
Lay curtain right side down and fold the top over 1/2 inch. Fold it over again and iron. Now fold over 4 inches to create a "pocket," press, and pin into place.
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Step 9
Stitch top
Stitch the hemmed top along the inside fold, farthest away from the edge, to make a rod pocket. Remove pins as you sew.
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Step 10
Lay out and fold bottom
Lay curtain right side down and fold the bottom hem over 1/2 inch, then fold it over again. Press and pin into place.
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Step 11
Stitch bottom
Stitch the hemmed bottom along the inside fold farthest away from the edge, removing pins as you go and backstitch at the edge. Repeat all steps with the other curtain and hang them. Now your windows are decorated to your style, and your beauty sleep is preserved!
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Air curtains, the sharp downward blasts of air as you enter a store, are intended to keep insects, drafts, and inclement weather out of the interior space. They were first invented by Theophilus Van Kemmel in 1904.
