Needlecrafts Sewing Sewing Basics

How to Make Curtains

Making curtains is easy, but only if you know the basics

Close-Up Of White Curtain Over Hardwood Floor
Onsuda Usanakornkul / EyeEm / Getty Images

Curtains are almost all straight sewing, making them an easy project for beginners. That said, there are still some basics to master before embarking on sewing curtains for the first time. This page will direct you to all the information you need to successfully start making your own curtains and window treatments.

Fabric Choices

Choosing your fabric is one of the first steps to sewing your own curtains. There are other things to look for aside from the color you want, including fabric weight, thickness, and grain. Learn about sewing fabric before you go shopping so you know what to look for besides a pretty color or print.

Cutting and Measuring

Being familiar with tools for measuring and cutting fabric is helpful in making sure that your end results are straight, even, and professional-looking. Although most people think of rotary cutting tools as a quilter's tool, they are perfect for keeping things square when you are sewing your own curtains.

How Much Fabric to Buy

The size of the window, along with hems and headers, dictates how much fabric you will need. Learn everything you need to take into consideration before you make your fabric purchase because the last thing you want is to finish sewing your curtains and realize they're too small for your windows.

Your Sewing Machine

It's important to understand your sewing machine and how to sew a basic seam before you start sewing your own curtains. Learn about sewing machine guides so you can sew a straight line. Don't let a sewing machine win a frustration battle; know how to troubleshoot when the machine seems like it has a mind of its own.

Sewing Terms

Sewing might seem like it has a different language until you understand sewing terms and the equipment and parts that are referenced in the directions for your pattern.

Choosing the Type of Curtain

If this is the first time you are sewing with a sewing machine, start simple. A basic straight curtain panel or valance is a great place to start before you tackle more complicated projects.

Making Lined Drapes

Taking the extra step of lining your drapes gives them a more polished, professional appearance. This technique is also useful when you want to make blackout curtains for a bedroom. Although it takes a little more time, you can still finish the project in a day.

  • How to sew expensive-looking professional lined drapes in a day