How to Finish Hemming Sheer Drapes

Create a simple double hem in the bottom of sheer drapes.

Sheer drapes may hang alone in a window as a simple, yet elegant, covering. Sheers also coordinate easily with other window coverings to make a complementary design. If you make your own simple sheers, one of the final tasks will be to finish hemming the sheer drapes. Because you need the sheers to hang straight and even, take the time to hem them correctly. For best results, make sheers with enough extra length to enable you to make a double hem.

Things You'll Need

• Ruler
• Pins
• Matching thread
• Scissors
• Hand sewing needle
• Iron

Instructions

1. Check the length of the sheers to ensure you measured accurately. For a proper hem, the unhemmed sheers should be 4 1/2 inches longer than the required finished length.

2. Fold the raw edge of the sheers under 2 1/4 inches, measuring carefully along the entire edge. Fold the folded edge another 2 1/4 inches to create the double hem. Pin the double hem with straight pins to hold it.

3. Cut an 18-inch length of thread for sewing the hem. Thread the needle and pull the threads through to make a double length of thread. Tie a knot in the ends of the thread.

4. Stitch along the inside edge of the fold to tack the double hem in place. Sew tiny stitches to make them inconspicuous on the front edge of the sheers. Tie a knot in the thread when you finish stitching and cut off the excess thread. Remove the pins.

5. Set the iron to a cool setting and press the double hem to make the fabric crisp and neat.

6. Hang the sheers over the window.

References

• “The Complete Photo Guide to Curtains and Draperies: Do-It-Yourself Window Treatments”; Linda Neubauer; 2006
• “Curtains, Blinds & Valances”; Eaglemoss; 1998