Wave top curtains are a popular choice for many homeowners, but they can be expensive to purchase. Luckily, you don’t need to break the bank to get your hands on this stylish window treatment!
We have put together a quick and easy DIY wave top curtains tutorial that will save you time and money. Follow these simple steps and enjoy beautiful new curtains!
Steps on Making Wave Top Curtains
Step One: Decide on a length for your curtains. This will depend largely on the height of your window, but you should include space to have them either pull closed or hang open. We suggest adding at least two feet beyond the width of each side to ensure that they are securely tucked into place when pulled all the way shut.
Step Two: Purchase your fabric. You’ll need two pieces with a width of at least twice the length you chose in step one (i.e., if you decided on a six-foot curtain, buy fabrics that are 12 feet long).
Step Three: Measure and cut the lengths of both of your curtains to equal the chosen length.
Step Four: Attach the two pieces of fabric by sewing them on either side, along a straight edge that forms a long “wave.” This will create your curtain’s top and bottom edges.
Step Five: Fold over one inch at each end to make it easier to sew later on (or use iron-on hemming tape instead of a sewing machine).
Step Six: Fold your curtain over so that the sewn edges meet, with each panel on either side. Sew these two panels together using an inch-wide seam allowance to create one long wave top piece for both sides.
Step Seven: Cut off any excess fabric after sewing and press the seams flat.
Step Eight: Fold and sew (or use iron-on hemming tape) the bottom edge of both panels together, creating a long wave with no top curl that resembles an inverted letter “U.”
Step Nine: Cut off any excess fabric after sewing to create one continuous piece for your curtain’s width.
Measure the length that you need for your curtain, then cut the remaining fabric off.
Step Ten: Lay your curtain out with right sides together and sew each edge to create one long panel of fabric, leaving about a one-inch seam allowance at the top where it meets the bottom hemmed edge.”
What are Wave Top Curtains?
Wave top curtains are a type of curtain that is often used in bay windows, which have one or more sashes (curtains) on either side.
The panels at the bottom edge create a wave shape when hung from two rods. This design ensures there’s no gap between the curtains and window sill where light could pass through.”
How to Hang Wave Top Curtains
To hang wave-top curtains, follow these steps.
Step 1. Measure the width of your window and divide it by two to calculate how wide you need each panel to be (you’ll want them narrow enough so that they don’t touch or overlap when pulled across the bay). For example, if your window is 48 inches wide at its widest point, you’ll need to make each panel about 24 inches wide.
Step 2. Draw a line parallel with the edge of your window’s frame, and mark where you want one rod centered on either side (24-inch measurement) from that point.
Step 3. Attach brackets or screws at these points if they’re not already preinstalled in the wall above your window.
Step 4. Install the two rods on either side of your window, making sure they’re level.
Step 5. Take one panel and wrap it across both rods (top to bottom) so that they cross at the middle point where you marked them with a line in step three.
The curtain should now be hanging straight down from its rod. Tighten all four brackets on either side of the curtain to keep it in place. Repeat this process with each panel, and then tie them together at the edges using a large ribbon or sash.
Step 6. Hang your curtains by running one long piece of string from one rod to another (as pictured). Tie off securely so that you can’t see any strings. Enjoy your brand new, DIY curtains!
How to care for Wave top Curtains
If your curtains get dirty, they can be washed in warm water with a mild detergent. Hang them to dry so that the ends do not twist or fold back on themselves.
When looking for trimming options, consider using lace trims like picot edge ribbon and tulle netting or flowers such as silk roses, which are gorgeous and add a romantic touch to your room.
Can I Iron Wave top Curtains?
Yes, you can iron your curtains. Hang them on the railing of a staircase or in another place that is out of reach from children and pets so they don’t get caught up with it while hot. Iron using low heat to avoid melting delicate trims like lace.
What is the best Fabric Material for Wave top Curtain?
Linen is a popular fabric that offers the same no-fuss benefits as cotton with a more luxurious feel.
Velvet, one of our favorites types of fabrics for curtains because it’s so soft but can also be used in cases where you want to add some texture and depth to your room.
Other upholstery fabrics like velveteen and corduroy offer a more casual look. Quilted cotton offers elegant lines, minimal fussing and is durable for high traffic areas such as family rooms or dens.