How to Easily Sew Curtains ⋆ Tamaras Joy

Looking for a way to easily sew curtains?

This tutorial will walk you through 4 different ways you can sew curtains!

To Easily Sew all 4 Versions, Watch the Video Tutorial HERE!

*This post contains affiliate links, if you shop through them I will make a small commission which allows me to continue to make these free tutorials for you. I appreciate your support.

#1 Rod Pocket Curtain Tutorial:

If you’re looking to add a touch of elegance to your home decor, rod pocket curtains are the perfect choice. These versatile window treatments feature a discreet pocket at the top that easily slides onto a curtain rod, providing a seamless and polished look.

Easily sew curtains with Rod Pockets by following this video tutorial.

Of the four curtain versions shown here, this is the easiest one of the bunch to sew. It will also take the least amount of time!

Remember To:

Prewash your fabric.
Use all purpose sewing thread.
The top hem should be twice the diameter of the pocket rod. My measurements assume you are using a standard size curtain rod.

There are Two Rod Pocket Variations:

Version one is without the top ruffle. You will skip the final step in the tutorial to create this look.
Version two is with the top ruffle. To do this you will add one extra seam along the top edge of the Rod Pocket. Do this by sewing a seam across the top edge measuring 1.5″ down.

Curtain Math for Rod Pocket Curtains:

Desired width of curtain + 4″ to account for the side hems.
Rod Pocket curtain WITHOUT top ruffle: Desired length of curtain + 8″ for bottom hem + 8″ for top rod pocket.
Rod Pocket curtain WITH top ruffle: Desired length of curtain + 8″ for bottom hem + 9.5″ for top rod pocket.

#2 Back Tab Curtain Tutorial:

If you desire curtains that effortlessly blend fashion and functionality, then Back Tab Curtains are the ideal solution. These window treatments showcase a cleverly designed back tab header, creating soft and even folds that gracefully cascade down your windows. The discreet tabs also make it easy to hang the curtains onto any standard curtain rod, ensuring a clean, tailored appearance.

Easily sew curtains with Back Tabs by following this video tutorial.

Remember To:

Cut the tabs at 4.5″ by 6″.
The top of your curtain hem will either be folded 4″ & 4″ or 5″ & 5″ depending on what version you choose to sew.
Prewash your fabric.
Use all purpose sewing thread.

There are Two Back Tab Curtain Variations:

Version one is without the extra fabric sitting above the curtain rod. You will fold your fabric down 4″, press, then fold 4″ down again. Then add the back taps following the video tutorial.
Version two is with the extra fabric sitting above the curtain rod. To do this you will fold the fabric down 5″ and then again 5″. Your tabs will sit 1″ lower and you will sew one extra seam along the top edge 1 1/4″ from the top, this will also hold the tabs in place. This is easily seen in the video tutorial.

Curtain Math for Back Tab Curtains:

Desired width of curtain + 4″ to account for the side hems.
Back Tab curtain WITHOUT extra fabric above the rod: Desired length of curtain + 8″ for bottom hem + 8″ for the top.
Rod Pocket curtain WITH extra fabric above the rod: Desired length of curtain + 8″ for bottom hem + 10″ for the top.

#3 Tab Top Curtain Tutorial:

If you’re seeking a chic and modern window treatment, Top Tab Curtains are the answer. These curtains feature fabric loops at the top, forming a clean and contemporary look that effortlessly complements any decor theme. Easy to create and hang, these tabs smoothly slide onto the curtain rod, ensuring a neat and sophisticated appearance.

Easily sew curtains with Top Tabs by following this video tutorial.

Remember To:

Cut the tabs at 5″ by 9″
Cut an extra strip 2″ wider then your finished curtain measurement and 3″ tall.
Prewash your fabric.
Use all purpose sewing thread.

Curtain Math for Top Tabs:

Desired width of curtain + 4″ to account for the side hems.
Desired length of curtain + 8″ for bottom hem + 4.5″ for the top.

#4 Tab Top with Ties Tutorial:

If you’re looking to add a playful and decorative element to your window treatments, Top Tab Ties are the perfect choice. These curtains feature fabric ties strategically placed at the top, allowing you to create beautiful bows or knots that exude both style and versatility. Not only do they serve as eye-catching accents, but these ties also provide an adjustable way to control the amount of light and privacy in your space.

Easily sew curtains with Ties as the Top Tabs by following this video tutorial.

Remember To:

Cut the tabs at 2.5″ by 21″
Cut an extra strip 2″ wider then your finished curtain measurement and 3″ tall.
Prewash your fabric.
Use all purpose sewing thread.

Curtain Math for Tab Top Ties:

Desired width of curtain + 4″ to account for the side hems.
Desired length of curtain + 8″ for bottom hem + 4.5″ for the top.

How to Hem the Sides of the Curtains:

The first step for ALL curtain styles is to sew the side hems.

Fold the edge in 1″ and press.
Fold in again 1″ and press.
Then sew along the inner edge using a 1/4″ seam allowance, backstitching when you start and stop.
Do this on both long edges of your curtains.

How to Hem the Bottom of the Curtain:

This is the FINAL step you will do when sewing your curtains.

Fold the bottom up 4″ and press.
Then fold up again another 4″ and press.
Pin in place.
Sew up from the bottom corner to the fold, pivot, and sew across the top edge at a 1/4″ seam allowance. Pivot down once again and finish by sewing to the bottom corner.
Do this starting and stopping with a backstitch.
If your measurements didn’t work out you can adjust the bottom of your curtain to be the appropriate length you are looking for.