by Penny B

Created on: September 20, 2008

Today's window fashions make it easy for the novice seamstress to sew her own drapes. Although pinch pleated drapes are still used and are still quite fashionable, they can be a lot harder to make, as they require a lot of precise measuring. Fortunately, rod curtains are back in vogue and are so much easier to make, especially for the seamstress who hasn't had a lot of experience in sewing.

Generally, there are five styles of non-pleated drapes. The more common of these is the "rod pocket" curtain that just about anyone can sew. Other newer styles include the "tab top" or the "back tab top", the "back tab pinch pleat look" and "clip" drapes.

STEP ONE

The first step in making drapes is to measure your windows. As with carpentry, a good rule of thumb is to measure twice and cut once. Add an extra couple of inches on either side of your window, as you want your drapes to cover the entire window and casing.

STEP TWO

Choose your color and fabric. If you need to match the fabric of your furniture or room dcor, be sure to take along a color sample to the fabric store with you. This way you can be sure that the color of your draperies won't clash with your dcor.

Try to purchase an extra half yard of material if possible. This way you will be sure to have enough in case you measured the window area wrong. If you happen to have some left over fabric, all the better. You can then make matching cushions.

* note: While picking out your fabric, be sure to purchase a spool of thread that matches the color of your fabric.

ROD POCKET DRAPES

After measuring your window area, cut your panels in the length that you will need. Depending on the size of your window, you might either have enough width of fabric for each panel. If your window is larger, you might have to sew two panels together. This will require a lot more fabric.

Remember, you will need at least 2 to 3 extra inches to fold over for the rod pockets at the top, and another extra 2 to 3 inches for your hem.

First, sew up the sides. Turn your fabric to the backside by approximately 1 inch. This will give your drapes a clean, professional looking, side edging.

Next, at the top, tuck in approximately inch of fabric. This will prevent your fabric from fraying. You might want to pin this down with stickpins.

Then fold over 2 to 3 inches of fabric for the rod pocket. How much you fold over will depend on how thick your drapery rod is. Again, pin down for easier sewing so that the fabric doesn't move while you are machine stitching.

Repeat

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