Instructions for Tab-Backed Curtains
- 1). Measure the width of the window. Add 6 inches to the window's width to determine the width of each fabric panel. Measure the length of the window from the curtain rod down to the point where you want the bottom of the curtain to stop. Add 4 inches to this measurement to find the length of each panel.
- 2). Cut two panel pieces of fabric to the length and width you calculated in Step 1. Divide the width of your window by seven to determine how many tabs to make for each curtain panel. Cut the necessary number of strips for two curtains to 4 inches by 10 inches in size. Set aside the tab strips.
- 3). Lay out a panel of fabric with the patterned side facing down. Fold in all four sides by 1 inch to form a hem. Fold each side again, this time by 2 inches, to complete the hem. Pin the folded edges. Sew the hem in place on all four sides. Repeat with the other fabric panel.
- 4). Fold each tab strip in half lengthwise with the right sides of the fabric facing in. Sew the long sides of the fabric together along each tab strip to form a tube. Turn each tube right side out and press it flat. Tuck the raw edge at one end of a tube inside itself by ½ inch to form a sleeve. Press with an iron to crease the fabric. Repeat to create a sleeve on each tab only at one end.
- 5). Spread out a curtain panel with the right side facing down. Pick up the number of tabs needed for a single curtain. Set down the tabs running perpendicularly to the top edge of the curtain. Arrange the tabs at the top of the curtain so the two outermost tabs start an inch in from each side, with the others evenly spaced between them.
- 6). Adjust the tabs so the sleeve end is aligned with the hem fold on the back of the curtain, with the rest of the tab running upward. Pin the tabs in place. Sew across the top edge of the curtain to attach the tabs in place.
- 7). Loop the loose end of the tabs over the back of the curtain. Slip the raw edge of the tab into the sleeve opening by half an inch to complete the loop. Pin in place. Sew along the hem edge to sew across the sleeve opening and secure the loop to the curtain. Repeat Steps 5 through 7 to make the second curtain panel for the window.
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