In this blog post, we’ll show you how to make long curtains for your window. You can use the steps in this guide to help create long curtains, short curtains, or any design that you want. It doesn’t matter if you are a beginner or an expert; these steps will provide everything that you need to know about how to make long curtains of any size and style!
Steps to Make Long Curtains Successfully
Step #1: Measure the width and height of your window to determine how wide and tall you want your curtains to be.
Step #2: Choose a fabric such as muslin, cotton, or lace according to whether it is sheer enough for light control, heavy-duty enough for sun protection, or decorative in nature.
Step #3: Decide how wide your curtains should be by measuring the width of each curtain panel and adding them together plus a few inches for seam allowance. The total will determine how many panels you need to cut out in order to get the desired size.
Step #4: Cut your fabric into four equal pieces, two large rectangles and two small rectangles.
Step #5: Fold the narrow, short edges of each long rectangle in one inch and then again a half an inch to create a hem. This is called “double-fold hems.” Sew these with upholstery thread or heavy cotton thread so they will be strong enough to hold your curtains onto the rod or hook.
Step #6: Sew the top of each long rectangle into a tube, with right sides together and hems facing inwards so that when you turn it inside out, the seams will not show on the outside. Leave an opening at one end for turning your tubes inside out. This is called “turning corners.”
Step #7: Turn each tube inside out and iron the edges flat.
Step #8: Sew across the top of your curtain with heavy cotton thread to reinforce it from ripping apart when hung on a rod or hook.
Step #9: Attach one end of each hemmed rectangle (the short side) into loops that are level with one another, making sure that the hem edge is tucked inside.
Step #10: Sew across to secure it in place, then fold both hems over so they are facing outwards and iron them flat.
Step #11: Hang your curtains with a rod or hook. Be creative and use things like shower curtain rings for more decorative accents!
How to Care for Long Curtains
Tip #1. You can wash curtains in the washing machine, but you will need to use a gentle cycle and fabric softener.
Tip #2. When it comes time to dry your long curtains, hang them on a line outside or place them over one of those drying racks that specifically caters for large items like this. You’ll also want to be mindful of how much sunlight they’re exposed to and ensure that the leading edge is turned away from it.
Tip #3. You can also iron your long curtains, but you want to do this in moderation as a high heat could damage the fabric. Use a low setting on your machine or if possible use an electric steamer rather than dry irons. You’ll need to press the curtains flat first, then go over any creases to release them.
Best Fabric Material for long curtains?
The best choice for long curtains is cotton because it’s lightweight and breathable. You should also choose a fabric that has some natural sheen to it so the drapes will look rich and luxurious.
Can I dye long curtains?
Yes, you can dye your curtains. However, the color will only be as dark or bold as the material allows it to be so if you want a darker shade of red for example then use a fabric that is already in that color family.
Long curtain rod height?
For long drapes and heavy fabrics such as velvet, silk, or brocade, you’ll want to hang your curtains around a rod that is at least 72″ high. This will keep the weight of the fabric from pulling down on the curtain rod and causing sagging in the middle.
How long are long curtains?
Curtains can be as short or as tall as you like them, so long curtains are just a matter of how long you want them to be and what type of look you’re going for.
Long window height?
For windows that measure less than 72″ wide, use 24″-30″ tall drapes; whereas if your window is more than 70″, 36″-62″ should work well. You can adjust these heights to your preference, though.
Long curtains for a large window?
If you have windows that are more than 120″ wide and 60″ tall, opt for long drapes with lengths up to 180″. If the width of your windows is less than 80″, use 90″-120″ in length; if they’re between 81-100″ use 120″-130″; and if they’re more than 100″, choose 130″-150″.
Long curtain lengths?
For a window that’s at least 150 inches wide, we recommend using long curtains between 180-200 inches in length. We also recommend the same for windows that measure a minimum of 210 inches across.