GROMMET CURTAIN (FREE SEWING PATTERN)

Getting Started

Follow instructions for making a basic curtain. For the top heading, allow enough fabric for a double fold to the back. The amount can vary based on the diameter of the grom­mets. Generally, allow at least 1 inch (2.5 cm) above and below the inside edge of the grommets for the heading. For this project, a 4­inch (10.2 cm) double­fold heading was used.

Select a rod that is a smaller diameter than the grom­mets, so the curtain will slide easily. Plan to use grommets with an inside diameter of 30 to 40 percent more than the rod diameter if the curtain will be operable.

If possible, install the rod above the window and mea­sure the .nished width and length. Remember that the top of the rod is not the finished length - it is where the inside of the grommet sits on the rod. The top edge of the curtain will be above the rod. This is also important to remember if you are mounting close to the ceiling. Be sure to leave enough space above the rod for the top of the curtain.

Always plan for an even number of grommets so that the outside and inside edges both face in the same direction and toward the wall.

Measure the distance from the wall to the center of the pole. This is the “return.” Measure the return at each end and in the center of the rod, because the window trim may jut out, making the center returns less than the outer returns.

What You Will Need -- Decorator fabric -- Lining -- Grommets -- Buckram (iron­on) -- Drapery weights -- Hardware for installation -- Yardage Requirements

If using a print fabric, additional fabric may be needed to match the pattern motif.

FACE FABRIC -- Finished length + 16 inches (40.6 cm) for the bottom hem and top heading = cut length -- Finished width x 2 fullness ÷ fabric width = number of widths per window (round up) -- Cut length x number of widths ÷ 36 inches (91.4 cm) = number of yards (meters) needed

LINING -- Finished length + 6 inches (15.2 cm) bottom hem = cut length Cut length x number of widths ÷ 36 inches (91.4 cm) = number of yards (meters) needed

Follow instructions for making a basic curtain, measuring the length and turning over excess fabric at the top. For example, allow 8 inches (20.3 cm) extra for a 4­inch (10.2 cm) double­fold heading. Iron a crease to mark the finished length. Trim away excess lining even with the .nished length.

Turn the curtain panel so that the heading is facing you, lining side up. Cut a piece of buckram 6 inches (15.2 cm) wider than the .nished panel width. Press a double fold in the top heading and place the buckram inside the fold, folding over the excess on each end (this provides more body at each end).

Secure the heading by using fusible hem tape or fabric glue under the folded edge.

Mark for the grommets. Begin by adding a mark for the outside return and the inside return. Measure between the marks and divide by an odd number. Generally, the grommets should be around 6 inches

(15.2 cm) or less apart. (Do not space the grommets too far apart or the sections that fold behind the rod will not clear the wall.) (A)

Center a grommet over each mark and draw around the inside circumference of the grommet. (B)

Separate the grommets into two pieces, front and back. (C)

Staple in the center of each circle. Cut one hole at a time. Cut slightly larger than the mark so the grommet will not be too snug. (D)

Place the front piece of the grommet through the hole and snap the pieces together. (If using metal grommets, a setting tool will need to be used.) Continue cutting holes and setting grommets across the heading. (E)

When all the grommets are set, the curtain is ready to install. Thread the rod through the grommets with the outside and inside edges turned toward the back. (F)

Note: When making multiple­width panels, it is important to place the seams in the spaces that go behind the rod. To do this, make a template of the grommet placement first, before cutting and joining fabrics. Mark for seams on the template and then use this to lay out your fabrics. You may need to trim away fabric off the leading edge or slightly adjust the grommet spacing. Center a grommet over each mark and draw around the inside diameter. Pry apart plastic grommets with a screwdriver. A staple is used in the center of each circle. This holds the heading together and makes cleanup easy! The finished grommet panel is ready to be installed on the window.

Excerpted with Permission from Singer(R) Sewing Custom Curtains, Shades, and Top Treatments: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide to Making and Installing Window Decor.