How do you make lined curtains?

Lined curtains have recently grown in popularity amongst homeowners because they add more depth and shape to your windows. They are stylish and bold and make your windows look more dynamic, preventing them from looking flat and dull, which would be a detriment to the interior of your house overall. This makes them worth the investment: these curtains can enhance your windows as well as the overall appearance of your home.

Lined curtains are sold in most fabric and curtain stores, though you’re also able to make them yourself, and making your own lined curtains makes them more customised and sentimental. However, if you’re not used to designing and making your own decor it is understandable that you may have concerns about what materials and equipment you need; this is where we can provide expert advice and guidance. Here’s an overview of how to make your own lined curtains from the convenience of your homes. 

What you need:

• A pair of scissors
• Thick thread
• A thick needle
• Durable curtain fabrics 
• Measuring tape
• A curtain rod
• Pins
• An iron and ironing board

1. Measure the height and width of your windows

The first thing you need to do is determine the measurements you want for your curtains, which will depend on the measurements of your windows. To do this, place your measuring tape on top of your window panels and measure from right to left to determine the width. Once you’ve done this, make sure to add an extra inch or two on each side of your windows to accommodate for the hems of the curtains. In regards to specific lengths, you have the freedom to choose for yourself what you want the length of your curtains to be, as it is in accordance to how you want your curtains to hang. Place your measuring tape on one side of the window and then add at least six to eight inches from your desired length to leave length for the hems.

2. Cut your fabrics according to the measurements

When cutting your fabrics, you must first start with multiplying your width measurements by two and a half for your heading structure, which will leave more fabric to be folded for pleats. When you’ve done that, you must take a pencil and draw a straight line on where you would like to cut the fabric. For the length, there are no additional measurements required, simply draw where you want to cut the fabric and proceed to cut them. Also, cut out holes in the heading to allow space for the curtain rod. This can be done by drawing circles using a circular object and cutting them. 

3. Get the hems pressed and sew them

Before sewing, make sure to fold the hems first by two to four inches. Make sure they are folded straight so as to avoid them appearing crooked once they are sewn. Once folded, heat your iron and press against the folded hems. This will let the fabrics hold the folds firmly so you can sew them neatly. Once your hems are pressed firmly, it’s time to sew them. Take a thick needle and thread and sew the fabrics together. These are helpful in that they give great hold while you sew the hems.

4. Fold the pleats

Pleats are important when it comes to creating a lined curtain, they are the foundation of the curtain structure and give more depth to your curtains. You have the freedom to decide what pleats you want, from box pleats, rod pocket pleats, and goblet pleats. You need to fold the width of the heading of the fabric into the pleats that you would like and use pins to hold them in place. Take care as to leave two or three inches of spacing for each pleat so they don’t look too compressed.

Shop for fabrics

If you’re looking for fabrics for your custom lined curtains, feel free to explore our range. We offer a wide variety of fabrics, from chenille, jacquard, brocade, damask, and velvet.