How Do You Take Up Curtains?

To take up curtains, you'll essentially be shortening them. Here's a straightforward guide using the provided reference:

Steps to Shorten Curtains

Taking up curtains involves measuring, turning, pinning, and pressing. Below is a step-by-step guide:

1. Measure:

   • Use a steel tape measure to determine the desired finished length of your curtain.
   • Measure from the bottom edge of the curtain upwards to that length.

2. Turn and Pin:

   • Fold the top of the curtain over to the measured point.
   • Secure the fold with pins. This creates a new hem.

3. Trim (If Needed):

   • Trim the excess fabric to a maximum of 2.5 inches from the pinned turning line.
     • Trimming ensures the hem isn't too bulky.

4. Press:

   • Lightly press the new hem with an iron to set the fold.

Summary Table

Step	Action	Details
1. Measure	Measure from the bottom to the desired length.	Use a steel tape measure for accuracy.
2. Turn & Pin	Fold the top over and secure with pins.	Creating the new hemline.
3. Trim	Cut off excess fabric.	Leave a maximum of 2.5 inches of fabric.
4. Press	Iron the new hem to set it.	Lightly press with an iron.

Additional Notes

• Before starting, consider if your curtains are lined.
• For heavier fabrics, it might be helpful to use more pins.
• After pressing, check for evenness before permanently stitching, if needed.
• This process works best when a sewing machine is available to stitch the hem.