Necchi 3101 Sewing Machine
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How To Sew Your Own Curtains 

When searching for curtains, a person can likely lose their mind in the similarities of colors, themes, and designs, and getting custom made curtains can cost a small fortune.  But fear not, you professionals of personal taste, there is a way to get exactly what you want without forking over your savings. 

To make your own curtains, you first need to get the correct measurements of the width and height of the windows you wish to bedazzle.  If you want the gathered, full-body look, measure each panel to be at least 1.5 to 2 times the size of your window, depending on how full you want it to look.  Be sure to add 8-9 inches to compensate for the hems and rod pocket. 

Before paying full price for fabric, skim the sales racks at your craft and sewing stores—sometimes they have nice fabrics for cheap.  Once you find the color and/or theme that are just right for you, cut the fabric into two equal pieces, using the measurements you took precisely.  Begin sewing the side seams.  Fold the sides of the panels back toward the wrong side of the fabric, ¼ inch at a time.  Using an iron as you go may help keep the edges flat.  Do this twice and use pins to keep the folds in place as you work. Be sure to fold toward the wrong side.  Pin and sew all four side seams of the two panels using thread that matches your pattern. 

For the rod pocket, fold the top of the panels back 4 ½ inches and iron flat.  If you would like, about ¼ inch down from the top, sew a line of thread so that the top will sit above the rod as an added detail.  Fold and pin the bottom of the top fold over ¼ inch, iron flat, and sew.  Place your curtain rod through this slot and hang. 

Last step:  Admire your handiwork.