How to Make Drapes
Right choice of window covers and properly done drapes can add desired style to any home décor. With some creativity and time you can create interesting drapes that can give your room a sophisticated or funky look as per your preference and taste. Making drapes yourself allows you to experiment with different looks as well as saves money that otherwise you may spend on purchasing curtains and drapes.
Enlisted below are some easy-to-follow instructions that will help you make simple drapes with which you can add desired flair to any room in your house.
Instructions
- First, measure the width and height of your window or the area that you want to cover with curtains and drapes. If you already have a drapery rod, then make sure you measure that as well. Remember to include some extra inches in these measurements that you will need for the hem and rod pocket at the top or the side seams.
- Decide what length of drapes you want and accordingly measure the length. You can have a look at different magazines and catalogs to get an idea of different drape styles. You can easily combine different features to come up with a finished look of you choice.
- Now purchase the fabric. It is always better to buy some extra fabric than what you think you will need. In most of the cases you will require double the length and double to triple the width. These additional measurements are essential because they provide extra room for all seams, some billowing for the widths and also for errors that you may have made in the measurements.
- Consider the material you are selecting. Do not pick up a traditional drapery material. You can go for heavy lined drapes or even lighter sheers with a light curtain over them. The choice is yours. But make sure you select a fabric that complements and gels with your walls, furniture, and your room lighting
- Prior doing any cutting and stitching it is always better to wash the fabric. This is important because often some fabrics shrink when washed. Also iron the fabric so as to create a smooth surface.
- Now measure and mark the panels. If you wish to make two identical panels, then make sure you first fold the fabric in half and then mark where your cuts will be. Also measure and mark the hem on each side. Create a mark at the top where you want to fold the fabric for the rod pocket. Also mark the bottom hem to have an idea of how the drape will hang. It is always better to double-check your measurements before cutting the fabric, especially for the lengths so that you don’t have to redo the hem.
- Once you are done with marking all the measurements, cut the fabric into two separate panels.
- Now sew the liner and the side hems. Place the liner on the back of the fabric and sew it to the fabric. Sew the hems simultaneously so that there are few visible seam lines.
- Next sew the rod pocket and the bottom hem. Sew carefully along the seams that you have marked earlier.
- Once the drapes are sewn, slide the rod through the rod pocket of both the panels and hang the rod. Arrange the panels to give a look of your choice.
Watch a video instruction on how to make drapes
See also
 |  |  |  |
Exceptional creative, with his own design, you will feel the satisfaction is priceless