Have you been searching for the perfect curtains but can’t find anything that fits your style? Why not take matters into your own hands and make them yourself!
This blog post will show you how to turn a simple pair of sheets into lined tab curtains. You’ll be able to customize these curtains by using different colors, patterns or even adding embellishments like lace.
Steps on how to make Lined Tab Curtain
Materials
- Two sheets that are the same size and pattern (cotton, linen, or silk)
- Sewing machine with zipper foot if available
- Seam ripper for opening seams of existing curtains to reuse fabric from them as lining
- Pins
- Scissors. Depending on how many tab curtains you want, you will need one or two yards (meters) of fabric.
- Ruler
- Pencil and paper for making pattern if desired and pins to hold the patterns in place while cutting out the curtains – a large piece of paper is helpful here.
- Measuring tape
Step #1. Measure the length of your window and purchase fabric that matches. I measured my windows at 88 inches, so I needed a material that was 90″ wide. Next, you’ll need some tabs for the curtains – typically, these are purchased in a set with lengths ranging from 12-24″.
This will depend on how tall or short you want your curtains to be. I chose 18″ tabs for my project because they fit the length of the fabric perfectly (90″).
Step #2. I first cut out four pieces of fabric – two that were 90 inches wide and two that were 84 inches in width. If you don’t want a long curtain, use one piece of material at 90 inches.
Step #3. If you are using a sewing machine, use the pins to make sure all your pieces of fabric are lined up exactly how you want them before you start sewing – this will ensure that they stay in place and look nice when done!
If hand-sewing your curtains, it is crucial that everything be evenly spaced out at first so that the finished product looks great.
I used a straight stitch to sew all four curtains together, but you could use over-lock if desired – this will depend on how much time and energy you want to put into your project! Whatever method is chosen, make sure the “backing” of fabric (the one with no print) faces outwards. This creates an even and smooth piece of fabric to line the inside with.
Step #4. After sewing, I trimmed my seams, so they were flat and lined up evenly on both sides – this is not necessary, but it does make a more excellent finished product! I then ironed all four curtains together, leaving about an inch or two past each side for hemming.
I pinned the curtains to my ironing board and used a twin needle sewing machine (since I don’t have an overlock). The fabric is now ready for lining! Make sure you use the same weight of the fabric as your curtains.
Step #5. Line one side, then put it back on the other side so that the fabric will fold over and be hidden when finished.
After hemming, you’re done! These curtains are so easy to make with minimal sewing skills needed.
*Do not use a regular needle on your machine when using twin needles – this may cause it to malfunction or break prematurely.
Note: When picking out fabrics for lined tab curtains, it’s best to remember that the lining needs to be of a similar weight and texture as your curtains. This way, when you line one side and put it back on the other side before hemming, the fabric will fold over itself perfectly without any visible seams.
What are lined curtains?
Lined curtains are made of two layers, a fabric layer, and an insulating lining. The inner layer is often called the liner or insulation layer, while the outer layer maybe just “the curtain.”
A lined curtain will have at least one seam where both fabrics meet (these can also include hemmed edges). The top layer is the one that typically interacts with the environment and becomes dirty, while the bottom layer protects it.
Lined curtains are often used in kitchens to prevent cooking grease from soiling walls or windows. In industrial settings, lined curtains may be used on a large scale for dust control and other purposes such as sound insulation.
How to care for lined curtains
Clean-lined curtains by using a sponge and water or mild detergent. Please do not wash the curtains in hot water, as this may shrink them.
Line dry only to prevent shrinking further and avoid putting it in the dryer with other clothes. That can create static electricity, which will attract lint from nearby clothing. Ironing is not recommended.
Thin-lining curtains are often used when a room is to be decorated or redecorated. They can give the appearance of more windows without having to replace actual window coverings; this use may include temporary apartments and houses for sale.
How should you care for lined curtain panels? Clean them by using a sponge and water or mild detergent. Do not wash them in hot water, as this may shrink them.
Line dry only if possible to prevent shrinking further and avoid putting it in the dryer with other clothes. That can create static electricity which will attract lint from nearby clothing. Ironing is not recommended.