How to Make Drapes Using Hook Pins

Hook pins are used to hang pleated drapes.

A wide variety of pleated drapery styles are constructed with the help of manufactured pleating tape, which is attached to drapery rods with hook pins. The hook pins slide into the pleating tape backing at the point of the pleats. Both the pleating tape and the hook pins are available at fabric supply stores, which also gives you plenty of options for drapery fabric selection. Silk and cotton fabric deliver pleats with the best form.

Things You'll Need

• Traverse drapery rod
• Tape measure
• Fabric
• Pleating tape
• Straight pins
• Sewing machine
• Hook pins

Instructions

1. Install the drapery rod over the window at the desired height, following the manufacturer’s instructions.

2. Measure the width and height of the window to be covered with the drapes from the rod to the desired length. Add 4 inches to the height and multiply the width by 2 1/2 and add 4 inches to determine the fabric yardage needed.

3. Hem the bottom and sides of the drape with 2-inch hems.

4. Fold the fabric over 2 inches at the top edge. Pin the pleating tape to the folded fabric. Sew in place with straight seams, 1/4 inch inside the top and bottom edges, with the sewing machine.

5. Pull the cords at the ends of the pleating tape to create the drapery pleats.

6. Insert the hook pins in the pleating tape, hook side outward, at the pleat points. Hook the pins through the holes in the traverse drapery rod.

References

• Sew a Beautiful Window; Sally Cowan
• Creative Window Treatments; Creative Publishing International