Monthly Project for April, 2002
Spring Curtains
Just in time for Spring, our Basic Curtains project for April presents one of the most beautiful Hawaiian prints in what is called white on white. This design has a lengthwise nap, which means the print runs in one direction. Various flora leaves form a background for plumeria flowers that together make a perfect choice for window coverings. White fabrics offer a plain palette to compliment an existing decor as well as make a small space feel larger. It also offers privacy while allowing diffused light into a room. Keep in mind that windows vary greatly in size, so it is very, very important to measure properly to ensure you purchase enough yardage for your project.
*Read through all the directions for any project BEFORE you begin.
**Prewash 100% cotton ONLY; our project uses a poly/cotton blend and was NOT pre washed.
Materials Needed
- Hawaiian print fabric, polyester/cotton blend - see formula below for yardage
- thread
NOTE: Measure the height from the top of the curtain rod to the bottom of the window, otherwise your panels may end up too short. Accurate measuring is very important - use the same measuring tape for measuring and sewing to eliminate discrepancies.
The example measurements were taken from our Hilo store sewing classroom window. Our curtain rods are approximately 1" in diameter.
Formula
- Length + rod pocket (3") + hem (2") = curtain panel length to cut
EX: 47" + 3" + 2" = 52" ( Rod pocket size and hem can vary; choose the amount appropriate for your curtains.) - Width x 2 = Subtotal
EX: 70" x 2" = 140" (You may substitute 1.5" for a curtain with less fullness.) - Subtotal divided by fabric width = # of panels needed for window EX: 140 divided by 45" = 3 panels, 5" leftover
- Panel length x # of panels = total yardage in inches (divide by 36" EX: 52" x 3 = 156", 156" divided by 36" = 4-1/3 yds. Hawaiian print fabric for one window
Cutting
Following your formula cut fabric into the # of panels by the panel length.
EX: (3) panels of 52" each
Pressing
Rod Pocket - Note in what direction the print is going and fold fabric 1/4" from top of panel edge towards wrong side of fabric; press. Measure 2-3/4" from pressed edge, fold again and press. Repeat for other panels.
Hem - Measure 1" from bottom of panel and fold towards wrong side; press. Measure 1" again from pressed edge and fold towards wrong side. Repeat for other panels. Pin rod pocket and hem if so desired.
Sewing
- Stitch rod pocket across 1/4" fold widthwise; secure ends with backstitching.
- Stitch hem across 1" inner fold widthwise; backstitch ends.
- Repeat for other panels.
- Press each panel well. Slide panels over curtain rod, spacing the gathers evenly.
Tips
Working with white fabric requires special care.
- Keep working area VERY clean when cutting, sewing and pressing.
- Remove colored polish from your nails - it can rub off onto fabric easily but is difficult to remove.
Curtains can change the whole look of a room or home with a relatively modest investment of time and materials needed. Good basic curtains can last for many years and are well worth the time you invest in making your own. If you have any questions or comments please feel free to send an email to: lani@gotfabric.com
Have a wonderful Spring Break!
Aloha, Lani