How to Swag Curtains

Swag curtains are actually a window valance that is paired with lace or sheers or pinch pleat curtains for a complete window dressing. These curtains are perfect in formal rooms and informal rooms. The final look is determined by the fabrics chosen.

Swags can be made from a variety of fabric and is a project that is not difficult or time consuming. A seamstress with basic sewing experience and knowledge could make lovely swag curtains for windows in a short amount of time.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Curtain rod Fabric for swag Lining Sewing machine Sewing notions (scissors, thread) Iron

Sewing Swag Curtains

1. Cut one piece of fabric that measures 46 inches by 60 inches. This will make one swag for one window. Cut an identical lining piece.

2. Spread the fabric out with right side facing up. Fold it in half by the width and match the raw edges. Place the fold at the top and measure 12 inches down from the top folded edge. Draw a line to mark the 12-inch point and then draw another line from the 12-inch point to the bottom outside corner. Cut along the second line drawn.

3. Spread the lining out with right side facing up and repeat the same steps on the lining fabric as performed in Step 2.

4. Match the fabric and lining together with right sides facing each other and matching the edges. Pin and sew both side edges with a 1/2-inch seam allowance. Sew the bottom edges with a 1/2-inch seam allowance except leave 1 1/2 inches unsewn at each end. Turn the swag right side out.

5. Fold under 1/2 inch along the top edge. Carefully hand stitch this edge closed except leave 1 1/2 inches unsewn at each end. Press the swag well.

6. Spread the swag out with right side facing up. Lightly draw lines 1 inch and 2 inches from both side edges (total of four lines drawn). Sew along these lines through both fabric and lining.

7. Place the swag on the curtain rod beginning with the bottom edge of the first side and then next the top edge of the second side. Spread the swag out neatly on the rod to make it look attractive.

8. Hang the curtain rod on the window.

Tips & Warnings

• Pay attention to the proportion of your swag to the entire window. Swags should not represent more than 1/6th of the entire length of a window. The best fabric to choose for a swag is a medium-weight fabric. This will ensure easy stitching and a fabric of this weight will drape easily and properly.

Resources

• Swag Instructions
• Swag and Valance Information
• Beautiful Swag Patterns and Instructions
• How to Make Swags