Make Simple Curtains

SKILL LEVEL 2

Simple panel curtains instantly and inexpensively add warmth and privacy. The ones in this project are so easy to sew that the hardest part is deciding which fabric you like most. If you don't have the simple sewing skills this project calls for, don't worry — the tips include a no-sew option.

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2 Skill level
2 out of 5
7 Steps
11 Materials

Step 1 Plan and measure

Decide whether you want to hang the curtain panels inside or outside the window frame. Hanging them inside the frame shows off attractive window trim. Hanging them outside the frame lets you make the curtained area taller or wider than the window so the window seems larger.
Curtains are usually twice the width of the window, to give them a full, attractive appearance when closed. Measure the entire width you want the two curtain panels to cover. Each panel will be that wide, to create fullness.
Then measure the vertical length from the top to bottom — curtains usually end at the windowsill or floor. Add 10 inches to the length to give you plenty of room for the bottom hem and for the top pocket that holds the curtain rod. For example, if each finished panel will be 48 inches long, you'll need 106 inches of fabric (48 + 48 + 10). Fabric is sold by the yard, so that's about 3 yards.
Step 2 Buy fabric and supplies

Take your fabric measurements to a fabric store and buy the correct amount of fabric for your curtains. Fabrics come in different widths; choosing a width a few inches wider than the width of each panel make sewing easier. Most fabric is folded in half lengthwise on the bolt; the full width is listed on the end of the bolt.
Purchase sharp sewing shears, sewing needles, straight pins and matching thread, if you need them. Also buy a curtain rod; most fabric stores carry them. If you want to hang the curtains inside the window frame, choose an adjustable spring rod; if you plan to hang them outside the frame, choose a rod with brackets.
Step 3 Cut the fabric

Leave the fabric folded lengthwise, like it was on the bolt, so it's easier to handle. Fold it in half top to bottom and place the folded fabric on a firm, flat surface, such as an uncarpeted floor or a large table. Cut along the fold you just made, to create two panels of the same length. Take care to not nick the floor or table while cutting.
Unfold the two curtain panels. If the ends of the fabric are uneven, trim them so both panels are nearly perfect rectangles.
If the fabric can shrink, wash and iron it now.
Step 4 Fold the bottom and side hems

With the fabric face down on a firm, flat surface, make a 1-inch fold in bottom edge of one panel. Pin it in place as you work your way across the fabric, placing the pins near the cut edge, away from the fold. Then press the fold with a steam iron so the fold lies flat.
Pin and iron the two sides the same way.
Repeat on the other panel, making sure both curtain panels are the same size when you're done.
Step 5 Make the rod pocket

Fold and pin a hem on the top of the curtain panel to create a pocket deep enough to freely accommodate the curtain rod. Cut off any excess material. Press flat with a steam iron.
Repeat on the other panel, making sure it's the same size as the first panel.
Step 6 Sew the hems

The easiest way to sew hems is with a sewing machine. Set your sewing machine for your fabric type. Backstitch at the start and end of each hem and use the guides on the machine to help you sew in a straight line. After sewing the hems, remove the pins and cleanly snip off excess thread.
If you don’t have a sewing machine, hem your curtain panels by hand with a needle and thread. Use a running stitch and sew in a straight line, making each stitch the same length and tension.
When finished, iron the curtains to remove wrinkles.
Step 7 Hang the curtains

Feed the curtain rod into the rod pocket at the top of each panel. Then install the curtain rod, following the instructions that came with it.