Things You'll Need:
- Yardstick or steel measuring tape
- Pencil and paper
- Shower curtain(s) of your choice, preferably fabric
- Curtain rod or decorative pole
- Ribbon or decorative curtain rings (optional)
- Sewing supplies and sewing machine OR iron-on seam webbing and iron OR fabric glue
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Step 1
To get started on this project, decide how you want to hang your curtains at the window. Measure from the top of where the curtain rod will be to where you want the curtain to end. This is measurement L, for length. Then measure from side to side to determine the width.
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Step 2
Then it's off to the store to choose your shower curtains! A wide variety of designs and materials are available, but stick with a fabric version, as opposed to a vinyl or plastic type. Vinyl and plastic can emit noxious fumes on a sunny day, and the accompanying odors can be obnoxious! Also, think about how sheer or opaque you want your finished curtains to be, and choose accordingly.
Most shower curtains measure 76" x 76". When deciding how wide you need your shower curtain to be, remember that you need 2.5 to 3 times as much fabric as window for a lush, full look, and about 1.5 to 2 times as much fabric for a more tailored, panel-type look. Depending on the width of your window, you may need more than one shower curtain or you may need to cut and hem the sides of your curtain to make it narrow enough. -
Step 3
If measurement L is longer than the length of your shower curtain, you will need to add to the length by adding one or more fabric strips. You can add a border at the top or bottom, or add a stripe somewhere in the middle. You can attach the new fabric by sewing, using iron-on seam webbing, or by using fabric glue, depending on your preference and the fabrics. Always follow the manufacturer's directions when using these products.
If you want your curtains shorter or narrower than the shower curtain, you'll need to cut them off and hem the cut edges. -
Step 4
To hang the curtains with ribbons, cut the ribbon into 12" lengths, one for each buttonhole or grommet. Thread one ribbon through each hole and tie in a square knot, then add a shoelace bow. Simple!
To make a casing, cut off the buttonhole/grommet strip at the top of the shower curtain. Fold the top edge under 0.5" and pin in place. Then fold under enough fabric to measure the height and depth of the curtain rod plus 1.5". Sew the layers together near the first pinned edge. Finally, sew a line of stitches 0.5" from the top fold of the curtain.
Thread the curtain rod or pole through the ribbons or casing and hang them at your window. -
Step 5
Bask in the glow of your newest creation and all the compliments you'll receive!
