How to Make Tab Curtains

Tab curtains are characterized by a row of tabs, or loops, stitched across the top of the curtain rather than the traditional hemmed insert. To use, you simply slide the curtain rod through each tab, then hang the rod as usual.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Determine how you want your tab curtains to hang. Do you want to install a rod inside the window frame, and have the curtains hang just to the window ledge? Or do you want the install a curtain rod above the window frame, and have the curtains hang somewhat beyond the sides of the window and below the window ledge? If below the ledge, then how far below?

2. Measure the windows you wish to install the curtains on, then add the inches you want the curtains to extend beyond the sides and the ledge, if any. This will give you your total measurement for curtains. Depending on the size of your window, you may only need to make one curtain to cover it, or you might need to make two or three panels. Once you decide how many panels you will make, divide that number by the total width you want your curtain to be to get the total width for each panel. (Each panel will be the same length.)

3. Add 4 inches all the way around for each panel you need to make to have enough material for the hem.

4. Determine how many tabs you need across the top of each panel that you are making. You want to space them out evenly and be sure you have enough so that you will not have sagging areas in your curtain. The width of the ribbon or material you use for your tabs will also influence how far apart you space the tabs: the wider your ribbon, the further apart you can space tabs. About 6 inches apart is a good spacing for most tab-top curtains.

5. Purchase your material. Take your measurements for the panels you need to make to the fabric store and pick out fabric, then have enough cut to make the curtains and have some extra left over, just in case.

6. Purchase ribbons or other materials for your tabs. Look for sturdy, wide ribbon or other trim that coordinates with your panel fabric. Plan on making each tab 12 inches long, so multiply 12 inches by the total number of tabs you need and purchase that amount, plus a little extra.

7. Cut the material into the number of panels you need. If your panels measure wider or longer than your material, you will have to sew two or three pieces together for each panel.

8. Hem each panel. Fold and pin the material down at 3 inches; iron if desired to help the material lie flat. Sew a straight seam all the way around at the 3-inch mark.

9. Add tabs to the top of each panel. Cut the ribbon for the tabs into 12-inch pieces. Fold each piece in half, and pin one piece at the spacing you chose for your tabs along the top of the curtain, so that each tab is on the back side of the panel. Sew each ribbon on, trim, and then double stitch the ribbon again for a secure hold. These will be bearing all the tension, so you want them firmly attached.

10. Add any trim you want to your panels at this point: you can add ribbon along the bottom or the hems, sew on decorative items, or put on appliques. Or you can leave them simple and you're ready to hang them up.

[opalpearl3]

on 4/5/2009 Good article. Thanks. 5*