How to Make Double Sided Curtains
You'll add an unexpected flair to your windows with double sided curtains, whether you like the drama of contrasting colors or the softer look of mixed patterns in the same color palette. This is a great weekend project that's easy enough for beginners to sew since it uses straight seams with a simple rod pocket style.
With an almost limitless choice of fabrics, colors and patterns, you can create reversible curtains that will transform your windows.
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Measure the width of the window. Add 1 inch for seams.
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Measure the length of the window from the top of the rod to the point where you want the curtains to end. Add 1 inch for seams and 2 inches for a header (the fabric that rises above the top of the rod).
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Purchase sufficient fabric of one type to make two panels according to the width and length measurements. Purchase sufficient fabric of a second type to make two panels according to the same measurements.
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Pre-shrink washable fabrics by washing and drying them. Press out the wrinkles.
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Cut two pieces of each fabric according to the width and length measurements.
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Place a piece of one fabric type right-side up. Place a piece of the second fabric type right-side down on top of it, matching the raw edges. Pin the pieces together.
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Sew the top edge, using a 1/2-inch seam allowance.
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Sew down 2 inches on one side. Leave a 1 1/2-inch opening for the rod pocket then continue sewing the rest of the side seam. Repeat on the other side.
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Sew the bottom edge, leaving a 3-inch opening in the center for turning.
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Clip the corners diagonally, being careful not to cut into the stitching. Remove the pins.
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Turn the curtain right-side out. Use the eraser end of a pencil or a knitting needle to push out the corners.
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Press the curtain. Press the seam allowances on the rod pocket openings and on the bottom opening to the inside.
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Slip-stitch the bottom opening closed or bond it with a fusible iron-on product.
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Stitch along the pressed-under seam allowances on the rod pocket openings.
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Measure down 2 inches from the top edge on one side of the curtain to the top of the rod pocket opening and mark it. Repeat on the other side of the curtain. Stitch across the width of the curtain from one mark to the other.
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Measure down 1 1/2 inches from the seam you just made to the bottom of the rod pocket opening and mark it on both sides of the curtain. Stitch across the width of the curtain from one mark to the other.
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Repeat Steps 6 through 16 for the second panel.
Things You Will Need
- Fabric
- Measuring tape
- Straight pins
- Scissors or rotary cutter and mat
- Sewing machine
- Iron-on fusible product (optional)
Tip
For best results, use two fabrics of the same type and weight. The usual curtain lengths are sill, apron (the bottom of the window frame), floor and puddled on the floor. For puddling, add 2-4 inches to your length measurement.
References
- The Ultimate Curtain Book by Isabella Forbes
Writer Bio
Margaret Morris has a Bachelor of Arts in English with a concentration in creative writing from the University of Pittsburgh. She also holds a celebrant certificate from the Celebrant Foundation and Institute. Morris writes for various websites and private clients.
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