Crafting Basic Curtain Panels with Linings: A Step-by-Step Guide
Making your own lined curtain panels can be a cost-effective and rewarding project, even for beginners with basic sewing skills! Follow this step-by-step guide to create your custom drapes:
Step 1: Calculate Fabric Requirements
To determine the yardage for your panels, consider the finished length and width, including hems. For flat panels, use the following formulas:
For main drapery fabric:Finished length + 1" for top seam allowance + 8" for bottom hem allowance = yards required per panel
For lining fabric:Finished drapery length - 1" + 6" for bottom hem allowance = yards required per panel
Multiply the values by the number of panels to get the total yardage needed.
Step 2: Spread, Mark, and Cut the Fabric
Spread the fabric on a large, smooth surface like a table or the floor. Press out wrinkles and ensure the fabric is square to the cutting surface. Iron out the wrinkles, avoiding steam if necessary.
Remove the selvage if applicable, and mark the desired length. Use a yardstick for guidance.
Step 3: Hem the Main Fabric Panel
Lay the main fabric panel, right side down, and fold the bottom edge up to create a double 4" hem, pressing it into place. Pin the hem and sew using a blind hem stitch or hand-sew with a slip stitch.
Step 4: Prepare, Cut, and Hem the Lining Fabric
Use white, cotton sateen, 100% polyester, or a poly/cotton blend for the lining. Cut the lining to the finished length minus 1", and hem the bottom using a 6" hem allowance (double 3"). Sew the hem with a regular straight stitch.
Step 5: Join the Front of the Panel to the Lining
Lay the curtain lining and drapery fabric right sides together, ensuring the top edges are even. Pin the fabrics and sew with a 1" seam allowance.
Open the joined pieces, press the seam open, then flip the fabrics over, press the seam closed, and pin.
Step 6: Hem the Long Sides
Fold each side of the panel in 3", press it into place, fold in half, and press again. Pin or clip the fabric (for blackout lining, use Wonder Clips). Sew the hem with a blind hem stitch, hand-sew with a slip stitch, or use a blind hem stitch foot attachment or machine.
Add drapery weights to the bottom corners before stitching the side hem. Tuck the weight inside the fold before pressing and pinning.
Now you've created a drapery panel just like a professional workroom would! Hang your flat panel drapes on a curtain rod with sew-on or clip-on rings.
For more sewing assistance, check out my list of recommended sewing gadgets!
My Favorite Sewing Tools
- Hand Sewing Machine
- Blind Hem Stitch Foot Attachment
- Mercerized Cotton or Texturized Polyester Thread
- Wonder Clips
- Drapery Weight
- Non-stick Needle
- Rotary Cutter and Self-healing Cutting Mat
- Tailor's Chalk or Water-soluble Fabric Marker
- Measuring Tape
- Sharp Scissors or Rotary Cutter
The DIY project, with its cost-effective and rewarding nature, extends to home-and-garden improvements, such as creating custom home decor items like lined curtain panels. When planning the project, ensure that the chosen lifestyle accommodates personal time for sewing and managing curtain requirements.
In addition to making homemade curtain panels, consider upgrading home interiors with other home-and-garden projects, such as assembling and arranging potted plants in your living space to incorporate natural elements and enhance overall lifestyle enjoyment.
