How to Make Back Tab Curtains With Pleat Tape
Back tab curtains, also called hidden tab curtains, have pieces of material that resemble belt loops sewn on the backside of the curtain panel. The curtain rod slides through these tabs, creating an elegant pleated look once hung. Although you can use nearly any type of fabric, the more sturdy the fabric, the better the curtains will hang. If working with a lighter weight fabric, you may want to use a lining to achieve the desired look. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Measuring tape
- Scissors
- Sewing machine
- 3 7/8-inch pleat tape
- Straight pins
- Sturdy fabric
- Iron (Optional)
- Grosgrain ribbon
- Fray Check or other anti-fraying product
Instructions
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1
Measure the width of your window and multiply this number by 2. Measure the length where you want the curtains to end and add enough extra to allow for hemming. This will be the measurements for one curtain panel.
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2
Cut the material to the appropriate size with scissors then sew together any panels that are needed to reach the desired width and length on a sewing machine. Ensure that all stitches are straight and consistent.
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3
Measure then cut 4-inch pieces of grosgrain ribbon to use for back tabs.
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4
Cut your pleat tape 1 ½ inch shorter than the width of the curtain panel and place it on the top front side of the panel, allowing 3/4-inch on either side and 3/4-inch on the top. Place the ribbon tabs every 4 to 6 inches across the pleat tape. Apply an anti-fraying product to prevent fraying.
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5
Fold the top material over the pleat tape and ribbon, ensuring that you fold under the raw edges. Pin the material in place with straight pins. Ensure the fabric is flat and straight. You can use an iron to press the seams, before sewing, if necessary.
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6
Fold the sides of the curtain panel in 3/4-inch and sew it in place. Double-fold the material to eliminate any exposed, raw edges.
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7
Hem the bottom of the curtain to the desired length. Iron the fabric, prior to sewing, if needed
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8
Fold the top of the curtain so that it rests on its backside. Sew a thin seam across the top and bottom of the pleat tape with matching thread and be sure to catch all of the ribbon edges. The ribbon tabs should look like belt loops across the width of the curtain when complete.
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9
Thread your curtain rod through the ribbon tabs and hang the panel. Make any adjustments, as needed, before completing any other curtain panels.
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References
- Photo Credit Comstock/Comstock/Getty Images
