DIY Burlap Drapes

The rough-hewn look of burlap creates a rustic interior design.

Burlap, a loosely-woven, rough fabric made of jute or sisal, finds use in bags, rugs and the garden because it is bio-degradable, breathable and dries quickly. Also called “hessian,” burlap has a distinctive texture and appearance, and has become popular as a decor fabric to create a rustic, exotic or “county” feeling in a room. Burlap drapes are easy to make, do not require sewing, and, because burlap is often less expensive than other upholstery or decorator fabrics, they can dramatically change the look of a room without pinching your budget.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure
• Burlap
• Scissors
• Fusible hemming tape
• Iron
• Ironing board
• Straight pins

Instructions

1. Measure the width and length (from the curtain rod to where you want your drapes to fall) of your windows using the measuring tape. Divide the width by two, as you will create two panels, one for each half of your window. Add at least 10 inches to each width (this will give you the “scrunched”) look of drapes, and add 6 inches to the length (to create a tube at the top through which you will feed the curtain rod). For example, if your window is 30 inches wide and you want drapes about 40 inches long, each panel should measure 25 inches wide and 46 inches long.

2. Take these measurements in with you to the fabric store to purchase burlap, and ensure you get enough yardage to cover your window.

3. Cut the burlap into two panels, using your measurements.

4. Fold the top of one panel down, about 1 1/2 inches down from the top edge, to create a tube at the top of the panel.

5. Unroll the fusible hemming tape, place it inside the edges of the fold, and pin it in place, if necessary. Ensure there is enough space in the tube to fit your curtain rod. Adjust if required and re-pin.

6. Iron the fusible hemming tape. Follow the manufacturer’s directions for the correct ironing temperature and technique.

7. Fold the second panel, apply hemming tape and iron.

8. Feed the curtain rod through the tubes of both panels, scrunch to fit and hang. Fray the bottom of the curtains for a fringed look. if desired.

References

• Martha Stewart's Encyclopedia of Sewing and Fabric Crafts; Martha Stewart Living Magazine Editors; 2010