How to Make Drapery Panels

Draperies and curtains can add that special touch to pull together the decor of a room. Save money by making simple panels yourself!

Things You'll Need

• Sewing machine
• Tape measure
• Chalk
• Scissors
• Pins
• Iron and ironing board
• Fabric and matching thread

Instructions

1. 

   Determine whether you want your panels to be on the inside of the window casing or mounted on the outside. Measure the width and the length of the area to be covered. Typically you will double or triple the width of the window or opening for a nice full look and then add 1 1/2 inches for a hem on each side for a total of three inches for side hems.

2. 

   To figure the length of the panel:
   Determine the type of rod that your panel will be mounted on. You need to make allowances for the rod. This is called the rod pocket. Add an extra 1/2 to 1 inch so that you can slide the curtain on easily. Do you want a "header" above the rod pocket? Typically a header will be one to three inches high, depending on the look that you want. Next you will make allowances for the hem which is typically three to four inches. Last you will need to add another inch to fold under on the hem and the rod pocket for a nice finished look. To get your final length measurement you need the finished length + the header + the rod pocket + the hem + the turn under allowance. Draw a diagram out on a piece of paper so that you don't make mistakes.

3. 

   You will use the length of the fabric for the length of the panel. Lay your fabric out on a table (ping pong table works great) or on the floor. Keeping the selvage edges straight use a piece chalk to mark your length. Keep your fabric straight and mark both sides of the piece. I like to use a t-square to keep everything straight. Using chalk, mark straight across the fabric before cutting. Cut with a rotary cutter or sharp sewing scissors.

4. 

   Hem the sides of the panels by turning under 1/2 inch towards the wrong side of the fabric, press and then turn another full inch under. Pin, press and stitch. If you have a blind hemmer on your sewing machine use it for a nice finished look.

5. 

   Press 1/2 inch of the top edge down to the wrong side of the fabric. Now fold down to the wrong side the extra amount that you measured for the header and rod pocket. Press and straight pin about every six inches. Stitch across the width close to the bottom. Measure up for the rod and stitch across the width again. This gives you the rod pocket and header.

6. 

   Now to finish your panel you just have to hem it! Turn 1/2 inch under towards the wrong side, press. Turn the hem up towards the inside of the fabric, measure the three or four inches you have allowed. Pin and press. Stitch. A blind hem will give a professional look.

7. 

   Press the panel completely before hanging for a nice smooth finish.

Tips & Warnings

• Wash fabric before cutting to prevent to pre-shrink.

• Test all fabrics before using an iron on them.