Even beginning sewers can easily update the window treatments in their home by making simple curtains. Because curtain panels are nothing more than rectangles of fabric, there are no complicated angles to figure out, curved seams to make fit, or tiny pieces to put together.
Begin by determining the size of your finished curtains. Measure the length of your window from the top of the curtain rod to the place where you want the bottom of the curtain to hit. To this length, add 7 inches, which will be used to turn over at the top and bottom of the panel. This measurement assumes that you will be using a standard curtain rod. If you are using a heavy-duty or decorative curtain rod, you will have to allow a little more room. Add another 1/4 or 1/2 inch for a heavy-duty rod and 1 inch or more for a round decorative rod.
Then, measure the width of your window. Add 4 inches to this measurement for side hems. If you are making a set of curtains that has two panels that open from the center, each of your two panels will be this size. If you are making one panel that covers the entire window, double this measurement. Whether you use one or two panels, the amount of fabric over the window should be double the width of the window itself.
After you have measured your window, choose your fabric. Curtain panels generally are made from lightweight material. Using a cotton blend or other blouse-weight fabric will produce curtains that gather nicely and fall gracefully from the curtain rod. Very sheer fabrics are beautiful, but beginning sewers might find the fabric difficult to work with. Although it is possible to make curtains from heavy material to block out light or to insulate against heat or cold, the end result may be somewhat stiff looking. Heavy fabric, such as that used for upholstery, is usually reserved for drapes with pinch-pleated tops.
Cut the panels to the length and width determined earlier.
Make the side hems first. (If you don’t do the sides first, you will close up the rod pocket on the top of the curtain.) On each side, fold over 1/2 inch of the raw edge, and another 1-1/2 inches for the hem. Press the seam and stitch.
To make the top of the curtain, fold over 1/2 inch of the raw edge, then 2-3/4 inches. Stitch 1/4 inch up from the bottom edge of the hem, then measure up 1 inch from that seam line and mark a second, parallel line with pins. This will make a curtain rod casing with a small ruffle along the top. One inch is usually enough room for a standard curtain rod to slip through. Test the size of the rod pocket by slipping the curtain rod through the casing. If you are satisfied with the ease of the fabric moving across the rod, stitch the line.
Lastly, make your hem. Fold over 1/2 inch of the raw edge, then 3 inches for the hem. Stitch in place.
Hang the curtains on the rod, then sit back and enjoy the view!
