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How do I Sew Curtains?

C. Wilborn
C. Wilborn

Curtains are a good way to add warmth and character to a room. Depending on the type of fabric you use, they can also be a great way to block out light or ensure privacy. Fortunately, it is not difficult to sew curtains from scratch. Rod pocket window panels only require basic measurements and sewing skills.

Before you sew curtains, you should consider what type of fabric you want to use. Keep in mind the feel of the room where the curtains will hang. Velvets or other heavy fabrics will add a richness to the room, and also block light, but could be oppressive in a room with light decoration. Lace or sheer fabrics will let in lots of light, but could be overpowered by strong room furnishings. Fabric with a nap, texture that looks or feels different from different angles, or a distinct pattern will require extra caution during sewing. Some fabrics, especially silks, can fade in direct sunlight. Fabric that is durable, easy to clean, and that will not stretch from hanging is often a good choice.

It is not difficult to sew curtains from scratch.
It is not difficult to sew curtains from scratch.

There are many types of curtains. The single rod pocket panel curtain is typically considered the simplest style if you want to sew curtains yourself. This type of curtain has a loop or pocket sewn at the top for the curtain rod to be threaded through. This is in contrast curtains that are attached to a curtain rod or track with hooks, or cafe curtains which are affixed to a curtain rod at the top and at the bottom.

Fabric that is durable, easy to clean, and that will not stretch from hanging is often a good choice for curtains.
Fabric that is durable, easy to clean, and that will not stretch from hanging is often a good choice for curtains.

To sew curtains for a single rod pocket panel, first determine the width and length of the curtain. For the width, measure the length of the curtain rod to be used and multiply by 2 or 3, depending on how much fullness is desired, and add 4 inches (10 cm) for side hems. If the fabric chosen for the curtains is not wide enough, two or more narrower pieces can be sewn together, or multiple panels can be hung. Extra fabric may be needed to make the pattern match up if curtains are made of several pieces.

With the hems ironed flat, you can secure the hem by sewing it by hand or using a machine.
With the hems ironed flat, you can secure the hem by sewing it by hand or using a machine.

For the curtain's length, measure the window area starting at the curtain rod to the desired length. To this measurement, add the circumference of the curtain rod to be used, plus 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) for the rod pocket opening and finishing. Add a desired hem length and multiple that amount by two. The bottom hem can be any width, but up to 6 inches (15.2 cm) is recommended for long lightweight curtains. A proper hem is made by folding the fabric twice, so a 6 inch (15.2 cm) hem would require 12 inches (30.4 cm) of fabric.

It's important to measure the window area before sewing curtains.
It's important to measure the window area before sewing curtains.

When sewing curtains, it's generally recommended that you start with the hems. For the sides, you'll want to measure in about 1 inch (2.5 cm) and use an iron to press the fabric flat. Be sure to iron on the side of fabric that will not show, which is also called the "wrong side." Fold the sides over again and press, to create a double hem. Next, you'll want to top stitch along the hem.

The single-rod pocket panel curtain is considered the easiest to make.
The single-rod pocket panel curtain is considered the easiest to make.

For the bottom hem, you'll want to follow basically the same procedure, though your first measure will be larger, perhaps about 6 inches (15.2 cm) or some other desired hem length. You'll want to double the lower hem too. If using curtain weights, insert them into side hems before sewing the bottom hem and make sure that the weight is secure in the bottom corners of the panel when you're all finished.

Next, you'll need to sew the top pocket. Measure 1/2 inch (1.3 cm) along raw edge at top of panel. Press flat. Next you'll need to measure a length from the fold that is equivalent to the circumference of the curtain rod plus 1 inch (2.5 cm) so the rod can be easily inserted. Then press flat again. Next, sew along the top of the curtain, about 1/4 inch (6 mm) from lower folded edge. Finally, just insert the curtain rod and hang your newly sewn curtain.

In addition to rod pocket curtains, it is easy to make custom curtains with a pleated header, tab top pocket, or attached to the curtain rod with ribbons or clips. Roman and balloon shades are other types of simple-to-make window coverings.

Discussion Comments

FirstViolin

My grandmother always sewed her own curtains, and she was really into it!

She liked to try out different styles; one time she even sewed pinch pleat curtains -- so you can see how good she was.

They looked just like professional ones -- I still envy her skills.

TunaLine

@closerfan12 -- Well, sewing lined curtains is just one step up the curtain sewing skills ladder. Instead of only hemming and sewing one layer, you have to do two.

Although I would suggest you to read an article that has detailed instructions on how to sew lined curtains step by step, basically you just hem both the pieces, then you either hang them separately, or attach the liner to the curtain.

That is basically what you do, but again, google an article for detailed instructions. It is certainly doable, you just need to do your homework before you start.

closerfan12

Does anybody know how to sew lined curtains? I want to make some curtains for my bedroom that will block the light, but I wasn't sure how to incorporate the lining.

Has anybody done this before, or has any tips for me?

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    • It is not difficult to sew curtains from scratch.
      By: Stephen Coburn
      It is not difficult to sew curtains from scratch.
    • Fabric that is durable, easy to clean, and that will not stretch from hanging is often a good choice for curtains.
      By: belikov
      Fabric that is durable, easy to clean, and that will not stretch from hanging is often a good choice for curtains.
    • With the hems ironed flat, you can secure the hem by sewing it by hand or using a machine.
      By: Pixelot
      With the hems ironed flat, you can secure the hem by sewing it by hand or using a machine.
    • It's important to measure the window area before sewing curtains.
      By: Halfpoint
      It's important to measure the window area before sewing curtains.
    • The single-rod pocket panel curtain is considered the easiest to make.
      By: LoloStock
      The single-rod pocket panel curtain is considered the easiest to make.