How to Hem Curtains for French Doors

French doors are beautiful but don't give much privacy.

French doors are double doors that usually open onto a balcony, patio or garden. They are filled with glass in the center and allow a lot of light into the room. However, when you want some privacy, it is tricky finding the right curtains to fit the doors. Most drapes or curtains will interfere with the way the door works or detract from the door's aesthetics. Instead, make your own curtains that fit inside the window and give privacy without interfering with the door's mechanisms. Use flat sash rods at the top and bottom to keep the curtain in place. Choose fabric that accentuates your home's decor.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• Iron
• Straight pins
• Needle and thread or sewing machine
• Flat sash rod kit

Instructions

1. Measure the width of the window and double the number so you have plenty of room for the curtain to gather on the rod without being pulled tightly. Measure the length and add 3 inches so you have enough room to create a hem. These measurements are for each curtain. You will need two to cover each of the French doors.

2. Hem the sides of the curtains if they aren't already hemmed. Fold the sides over and measure 1 inch down the entire length. Iron the fold to get a crisp edge and keep it in place. Use pins to hold the fold down and sew the hem using a straight seam. Remove the pins.

3. Fold over the top of the curtain so that the fold measures 1/4 inch straight across. Iron it in place. Fold it over again to create a 1/2-inch fold. This will be for your rod pocket. Iron it again and pin it in place with straight pins. Repeat on the bottom side and on the second curtain to create all the hems and rod pockets.