Making lined curtains involves several steps, but the result is a professional-looking window treatment that can improve insulation and light control. Here's a detailed breakdown:
1. Measure and Cut Your Fabrics
- Curtain Fabric: Determine the desired length and width of your finished curtain panels. Add extra length for hems (typically 4-6 inches for the bottom hem and 2-4 inches for the top) and width for side seams (usually 1-2 inches on each side). Mark these measurements on your curtain fabric using chalk or a fabric marker, and cut accordingly.
- Lining Fabric: The lining should be the same width as your curtain fabric, before hemming. For the length, cut the lining fabric the same length as your curtain fabric before hemming the top of the curtain, but reduce the length by the amount you want the hem of your curtains to "peek" out (e.g. 1-2 inches). This creates a neat finish.
2. Prepare the Hems
- Fold and Press: Fold the raw edges of both the curtain fabric and the lining fabric to create hems. Iron these folds to create crisp, clean lines. For a double-fold hem (recommended for durability), fold the edge over again before ironing.
3. Hem the Curtain and Lining Separately
- Sewing the Hems: Sew the side hems, bottom hem, and top hem (if applicable at this stage) on both the curtain fabric and the lining fabric. Use a straight stitch or a blind hem stitch for a professional finish.
4. Attach the Lining to the Curtain
- Pinning: Place the lining fabric on the wrong side of the curtain fabric, aligning the side and top edges. Pin the two fabrics together along the sides and top. Ensure the lining hangs evenly and smoothly.
- Sewing: Sew the lining to the curtain along the top edge.
5. Sew the Top and Bottom (Final Steps)
- Top Finishing: Depending on your desired curtain heading (e.g., rod pocket, grommets, pleats), finish the top of the curtain. This may involve creating a rod pocket or attaching curtain tape for pleats.
- Finishing the Bottom: Once you have attached the lining to the top you can finish any details on the bottom hem, paying special attention to corners.
- Side Hems: If you didn't sew the sides with the lining initially, fold over the side seam again, encasing the raw edge of the lining, and sew to create a clean finish.
6. Hang Your Curtains
- Hang and Enjoy: Once everything is sewn, hang your lined curtains and admire your handiwork!
