How to Make Swags for Curtains

Curtains and draperies with swags are making their way back. Vertical and mini-blinds are being pushed aside for elegant-looking silk and suede window treatments. However, custom-made curtains with swags can be expensive. If you want to save a little money, make your own curtain swag to give your windows that little extra something special.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Measuring tape
• Fabric
• Scissors
• Sewing pins
• Thread
• Sewing machine
• Fringe (optional)
• Hot glue gun
• Curtain rod with hardware
• Drill

Measure the window

1. To determine how much fabric you need, measure the height and width of your window. Determine how long you want the swag to come down across the front of the window. No more than 10 inches is recommended.

2. Transfer the measurements onto your fabric, and use the scissors to cut the fabric piece you will need for the curtain swag. Add an additional 2 inches at the top for the rod pocket and another 1 1/2 inches to the bottom and sides for hemming.

3. To create the rod pocket, fold the top of the fabric under 2 inches and place sewing pins all along the fold line to hold it in place. Use the sewing machine to stitch along the folded edge while removing the pins. Fold the sides and bottom under 1 inch and pin it into place in the same manner. Sew a stitch all along the folded edges on the sides and bottom as well to create a hem. Remove all sewing pins.

4. Lay the swag out on a flat surface. Measure and cut a piece of fringe for the bottom of the swag. Use the hot glue gun to attach the fringe along the bottom width of the swag.

5. Use the drill to attach the hardware to the window according to the manufacturer's directions. Place the curtain rod inside the pocket at the top of the swag and hang it up.

References

• Window Valance Patterns