How to Make Drapes With Interlining

Drapes that use an interlining have a layer of batting between the outer fabric and the lining fabric, similar to a quilt. This makes the drapes thicker and less see-through, and gives them more shape. Interlining also provides support for delicate drapery fabrics, such as silk. You can use a fairly thin batting as an interlining, or use home decor materials specifically designed for use as interlinings, such as thermal linings.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape Curtain rod Curtain fabric Matching thread Lining fabric Lightweight batting Scissors Straight pins Iron Ironing board Sewing machine

Instructions

1. Install the curtain rod. Measure the width of the curtain rod, then measure from the top of the rod to the place where you want the lower edge of the curtain.

2. Calculate how much drapery fabric you need by multiplying the curtain rod width by 2 and adding 6 inches, and adding 7 inches to the curtain length. To make two drapes for the window, divide the width calculation by two.

3. Cut the drapery fabric to size, following the calculations in Step 2. (Depending on the width of the window, you may need to sew several pieces of fabric together to make them wide enough.)

4. Cut the lining fabric and the batting or interlining material 3 inches narrower and 3 inches shorter than the drapery fabric.

5. Lay the drapery fabric right side down on a large flat surface. Place the batting or interlining on the center of the fabric, so that you have 1 1/2 inches of extra drapery fabric on each side. Lay the lining fabric right side up on top of the interlining. Make sure all the layers are smooth.

6. Fold one edge of the drapery fabric over about 3/4 inch, so that the cut edge of the drapery fabric is even with the edge of the lining. Fold the drapery fabric over another 3/4 inch, so that it covers the edge of the interlining and lining fabric.

7. Press the folded edge, then pin it in place. Stitch along the folded edge using matching thread.

8. Repeat Steps 6 and 7 for the other edges of the drape.

9. Fold the top edge of the drape over 4 inches toward the lining side. Pin the fold in place, then stitch along the hemmed edge of the fold to make a casing.

10. Sew the second drape, if applicable, the same way as the first. Take down the curtain rod and insert it through the casings at the top of the drapes, then hang up the curtain rod.

Tips & Warnings

• You can also use grommets, loops or the hanging method of your choice to complete and hang the drapes.

• Use caution when working with scissors, pins, irons and sewing machines.