Beginner Sewing

How to Create Simple Lined Curtains: A Beginner’s Guide to Custom Home Decor

Creating custom lined curtains is a rewarding project that can add a touch of elegance and style to any room. Whether you’re a seasoned sewer or just starting out, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process, from measuring and cutting the fabric to attaching the lining and hanging the curtains.

Measuring and Cutting the Fabric

1. Measure your window: Determine the length and width of your window using a tape measure. Curtains typically extend 1.5 times the width of the window and are as long as (or slightly longer than) the window itself.

2. Calculate the fabric dimensions: For two curtain panels, measure the window width, multiply by 1.5, and divide by two. This number represents the width of each panel. The length of each panel will be the same as the window length plus 10 inches to account for the hem.

Selecting Fabrics

Choose curtain fabrics that complement your room’s decor and match your personal style. Consider the texture, pattern, and weight of the fabric. For the lining, opt for a lightweight, opaque fabric that will block out light and provide privacy.

Cutting the Curtain Fabric

1. Mark the fabric: Use chalk to mark the desired length and width of your curtain panels on the fabric.

2. Cut along the lines: Use scissors to carefully cut along the marked lines, creating two identical curtain panels.

Cutting the Lining Fabric

1. Measure and mark: Mark and cut the lining fabric using the same method as for the curtain fabric, but subtract 10 inches from the length since the lining will not be hemmed.

Folding and Pressing Hems

1. Fold the bottom edge: Fold the bottom edge of the curtain fabric up by four inches, then fold it again to create a double hem.

2. Iron the creases: Use an iron to press a neat crease along both folds.

3. Pin and sew: If necessary, pin the hem in place and sew it using a sewing machine or needle and thread.

Hemming the Lining Fabric

1. Fold and iron the lining: Fold the bottom edge of the lining fabric up by two inches, then fold again and iron to create a double hem.

2. Pin and sew: Pin the hem in place and sew it using a sewing machine or needle and thread.

Attaching the Lining Fabric

1. Lay out the fabrics: Place the curtain fabric right side up on the floor and the lining fabric right side down on top of it.

2. Align the edges: Line up the bottom of the lining one inch higher than the bottom of the curtain fabric.

3. Pin and sew: Pin the fabrics together and sew them along the bottom edge.

Sewing the Sides and Tops

1. Fold and iron the sides: Fold each side edge of the curtain fabric in one inch, then fold over one more inch to create a double-folded edge.

2. Sew the sides: Pin the sides into place and sew the seams shut.

3. Fold and sew the tops: Repeat the folding and sewing process for the top edges of the curtain panels.

4. Iron the curtains: Once all the seams are sewn, iron the curtains to remove any wrinkles or creases.

Hanging the Curtains

1. Attach curtain rings: Clip the curtains onto curtain rings.

2. Create pleats: On the top of each curtain panel, fold two pleats between each four-inch length, ensuring each pleat points outward.

3. Tack the pleats: Push a needle and thread through each pleat to tack them together.

4. Slide onto the curtain rod: Clip curtain rings into each pleat and folded edge and slide the curtains onto a curtain rod.

5. Hang and admire: Hang the curtain rod over your window and enjoy the fruits of your labor.

Tips for a Professional Finish

• Use a seam guide on your sewing machine to ensure even and straight seams.

• Iron the curtains before and after sewing to remove wrinkles and give them a polished look.

• Add decorative trim or tassels to the edges of the curtains for a custom touch.

• Experiment with different fabrics and patterns to create curtains that perfectly complement your home decor.