How to Make Sheer Curtains

Step-by-Step Guide

1. 1

   Step 1: Use measuring tape to measure window height from the point where the curtain rod will be to the bottom of the window.

   How full your curtains are is a matter of taste.
   
   The average fullness is calculated by taking the total length of the curtain rod (sized to fit your window) and multiplying that number by
   1.5.
   
   You can multiply by 2 for fuller curtains. , This gives you the size of each of the 2 curtain panels you need.
   
   Again, this is a matter of taste.
   
   Two panels are normal, but, if you want more, just divide the total width by the number of panels you want to hang.
   
   You need to add 2 inches (5 cm) for each panel to the width of the curtain panels for seams and finishing. , Add the length plus 4 inches (10 cm) plus the circumference of the curtain rod. , Take your measurements with you so you know how much material to purchase.
   
   Be aware that material on bolts comes in 2 widths
   - 45 inches (1.125 m) and 60 inches (1.5 m).
   
   Home decorating fabric is mostly found in just the 60-inch (1.5 m) size.
   
   Convert your measurements into yards (meters), since raw material is sold by the yard (meter).
   
   To do this, divide your total width and length by 36 (100 for metric). ,,, Be aware that sheer material can be hard to cut.
   
   Make sure your scissors are sharp and you will want to stabilize the material on each side of the cut line with something heavy such as a book. , Fold over 1/8 inch (3 mm) and press with a warm iron.
   
   Fold the remaining 7/8 inches (2.2 cm) and press and then stitch it to make a 1-inch (2.5 cm)side seam on each side of each panel. , Fold over 1 inch (2.5 cm) and press.
   
   Fold over 2 inches (5 cm) more and press and then stitch the seam for a hem.
   
   This will leave you with the circumference of the curtain rod, plus 1 inch (2.5 cm) for top sleeve and seam allowance. , Fold over 1/8 inches (3mm) and press.
   
   Fold over 7/8 inches (2.2 cm) plus the circumference of the curtain rod, press and sew the curtain sleeve seam. ,,
2. 2

   Step 2: Decide how much longer you want your curtains to be than the window.

3. 3

   Step 3: Measure length of the curtain rod.

4. 4

   Step 4: Measure circumference of the curtain rod and add 1 inch (2.5 cm) to allow for a seam.

5. 5

   Step 5: Divide the total width (with fullness factored in) by 2.

6. 6

   Step 6: Determine the length you want for each panel.

7. 7

   Step 7: Purchase your material.

8. 8

   Step 8: Purchase thread to match the material.

9. 9

   Step 9: Lay out your material at home and measure each panel.

10. 10

    Step 10: Cut each curtain panel out.

11. 11

    Step 11: Sew your side seams down the length of each side of each sheer curtain panel.

12. 12

    Step 12: Hem the bottom of each panel.

13. 13

    Step 13: Make the sleeve for the curtain rod on each panel.

14. 14

    Step 14: Press the curtain panels lightly to remove any wrinkles in the fabric.

15. 15

    Step 15: Slip the curtain rod through the sleeve at the top of the sheer curtain panels and hang your curtains.

Detailed Guide

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