How to sew a simple pair of curtains

Curtains don’t have to be daunting or time-consuming to make. Here’s a handy guide to sewing a simple pair for your home.

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Measuring up

Measure the desired curtain length within the window and consider how much of a header and hem is desired. The hem can affect the hanging, so lighter curtains will need a deeper – or even double – hem to weigh them down. The width also varies depending on the material; lighter fabrics tend to require double and heavier ones 1.5 times the window’s width.

To calculate the total length, add together the desired length, the header, an extra 0.5” for doubling under the top edge, the hem, and at least another 0.5” for turning under the bottom edge. The amount of fabric needed is this length multiplied by the panels required.

For a double-ended door window, the header needs to be sewed at the top and bottom of the curtain. To calculate the total length, add the desired length plus the header, add 0.5” for turning under the edge, then repeat by adding the header plus this 0.5” again.

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Creating your curtains

The Great British Sewing Bee on television has aided a rise in popularity when it comes to homemade quilting, textiles and curtains. With the template in place, creation is fairly straightforward.

Choose among fabrics ranging from polyester to cotton poplin fabric. Options like cotton poplin fabric can often come with various designs to add a little flair.

Carefully cut the panels identically and then press 1/4” under on your edge sides. You can then either machine blind stitch or top stitch the hems at the side. When it comes to the header, you want to press 0.5” under on the top, also pressing under the measurements you made for the header. Finally, stitch this into place.

Next up is the curtain rod casing. Most rods will need 1.5” of open material. Straight top stitch this amount across the bottom of your curtain header.

For the hem, you will need to press 0.5” under the bottom part of the curtain as well as the measurement set aside for the hem, then top stitch or machine blind stitch this hem.

The finished product will be an evenly hanging curtain with neat edges and a well-fitting rod casing.