Krista is the BEST seamstress I have watched on videos! I have been sewing for a half-century (really!!) and I know a thing or two. She provides a great refresher as well as confirmation that what I learned decades ago still holds true and is so much better and easier than many new sewing instructions. She absolutely knows what she's doing! Love her hints, too.
I worked through college working in a custom drapery shop. Besides curtains, we did bed spreads, pillows and any other window dressings. I loved it. My favorite type of curtain was a pinch pleated sheers not the gathered ones. We had a couple of work tables about that size. Your videos takes me back!
Just found your drapery video. Thank you! I'm so excited to get started and know with your sharing of your expertise, I can do it! And save thousands$$
I own a 1910 Singer 66 "Red eye" and plan to make rod pocket curtains, some exposed to the West and South sun will be lined the others don't need lining. I bought 5 yards of 54" wide toile cotton fabric to start with, and went to measure the first window, which was 34" by 65" to go below the sill nicely, so using some math and the standard "fullness" multiplier of 1-1/2, plus the edge seams, it looks like each panel needs to be 29-1/2" wide, well gee, the fabric os 54" so it's not wide enough to get two panels from the width. Taking the panels from the length which with the hems etc would need about 79" I would be left with a piece of fabric about 24-1/2" wide, and another piece 65" long x 54" wide won't be long enough. So unexpectedly it looks like I will have to make one full panel and one panel from a piece 24-1/2" wide plus another piece plus seam allowance to make up the width to get 29-1/2" Ive never used a sewing machine, but how is the vertical seam treated to attach the 2 pieces to make one panel?
Excellent videos to learn fast and sweet. Ty, Older guy just bought a beginner sewing machine to dress up my place for fun. This really helps and if only i could work as fast as you. lol.
So great to see another drapery video! I learned to make 3 sets of drapes from you. Now after a big home renovation project, I’m about to make lined curtains for the living and dining room. Great tip about the 28 Oz. cans!
Thanks so much for uploading this and the lined drapery videos which I have watched so many tines - I am nearly ready to start making curtains for my mobile home!!
Would definitely appreciate a video on ironing techniques- thank you for this video as it has helped greatly with my project (making drapes for my sister’s living room.
I found you awhile ago from your first drapery video, got hooked on your cross stitch, then came round circle to this video. It’s been a great journey and I hope you continue!
No, I never pre wash drapery fabrics since they are usually dry clean only. However, once in awhile I will use a cotton quilting fabric that I add fusible interfacing to for extra stability and in that case, I do pre wash the cotton and iron it before fusing the interfacing to it.
I’m going to make draperies for my outdoor pergola so they will be in the weather. I’m going to buy Sunbrella fabric. my question is what I use the interfacing on the top if it’s going to be out in the weather? Is there such a thing as weatherproof interfacing? To hang it, I’m going to use the pins but perhaps clips would be better for outdoor use? I’m going to follow your video for everything else. I’m just not sure about the interfacing. Thank you! Great video!
I don't have experience with outdoor drapery but I'm guessing the Sunbrella might be sturdy enough to not need an upper interfacing. Rings might rust the fabric, so clips might be better.
You are very good at explaining the process. I have sewn for many years but usually just muddled my way trough. However, I am stumped at the moment. Someone gave a a huge bolt of drapery material but when i went to use it, I found that it was in a continuous loop, I guess you would call it.. The open end , when lifted up was like a tube! How do I work with this... So. it is 56 inches wide but actually 112 inches if I measured the circumference of the tube or loop. does this make sense to you?
I'm not familiar with that kind of fabric, but it might be double-wide drapery fabric. I don't have experience using it, so unfortunately, I can't make any recommendations.
@@kristamwest Thank you for your prompt reply. I do appreciate it. Would I be right in saying as long as I use the length of the material as the vertical line or at least not again the grain I should be ok.
Ha ha! This fabric is from Cowtan and Tout--they're an interior design fabrics company and if you contact them, they can recommend someone near you that sells their fabrics. Their stuff is amazing quality and I use their fabrics for all my drapes.
Krista I've watched part 1 & 2 and learned so much!! I've been sewing for years and this was a game changer!! Question: BIG Project - I am making lined dining room curtains and my finished measurements need to be 125 in wide X 101 in. long from rod to floor. If I calculate correctly for 54 in fabric width - I would need 5 widths/panels for double fullness. #1. Do I split one of the panels in half to make it even on both sides? or Do I just do 6 widths. #2. Do I sew all the panels together to make one gigantic panel on each side? That seems so daunting and HUGE. Can I just make individual lined panels first then sew them together (somehow)? I want to know the professional way that YOU would do it. Thank you thank you!!
If I were making drapes for that large of a window, I would make multiple 55" panels for maximum light flexibility because you can then move and adjust them across the drapery rod as needed to block/filter light. Happy sewing!
This was great! I was just looking for a basic curtain tutorial, but I several new things, one being ease pleats. I'm not exactly sure of why it's called a pleat; it looked like you were sliding the needle under the sewing needle to maybe lengthen the seam size for a bit....is that right? I didn't see anything that looked like a pleat. I have definitely seen the fabric bubbles that you describe, and look forward to trying this technique to get rid of them. Do you have a video with more detail on ease pleats?
I guess that does sound odd, but I was trained to call them ease pleats :) They're really a teeny-tiny pleat you put in the fabric to keep it from bunching up at one end. I always use a dull machine needle to make them as it allows you more precision than trying to use your fingers (and keeps your fingers away from the needle!). Happy sewing!
Hi Krista. I love this latest video. I never thought about the issues with pattern repeat until watching this. What are your thoughts on using an interlining i.e. drapery fabric, cotton bump and then lining? Would you go about constructing the drapery panel differently if you were using interlining? Thanks.
If you're going to use an interlining, simply affix it to the lining and then proceed as shown in my Lined Drapery video. It really depends on the texture and drape you want of the finished curtain, but you can play around with different layers of fabric to achieve different weights. Happy sewing!
Hi have been whatch ing your curtain making video and wondering how u curt your curtain panels out weather measure one and cutt the correct length one at a time so u have two separate curtain panels .with without cutting your curtain fabric up through the middle of the fabric .ca nt find any videos of how to cutt the curtain material I worked that have to full curtain panels the last section of curtain material I have join a panel on each curtain the back edge .I know how to match everything but I am sure weather have cut the material through middle i.e. many thanks for any advice would be greatfull as there no videos on how u curt your materials for curtain making .would greatfull any help .
I don't usually cut drapery fabric down the center motif because I want my curtains to have the motif matching at the center. If that's your goal, you need to buy extra fabric instead of cutting it down the center. Happy sewing!
Great video thanks for the great presentation - yes I am guilty of the thread thing ua-cam.com/video/RbifFHDnQqc/v-deo.html I feel like you caught me out and I've stopped that now :-)
Krista is the BEST seamstress I have watched on videos! I have been sewing for a half-century (really!!) and I know a thing or two. She provides a great refresher as well as confirmation that what I learned decades ago still holds true and is so much better and easier than many new sewing instructions. She absolutely knows what she's doing! Love her hints, too.
Oh, I'm blusing! So glad you enjoyed my videos!
I worked through college working in a custom drapery shop. Besides curtains, we did bed spreads, pillows and any other window dressings. I loved it. My favorite type of curtain was a pinch pleated sheers not the gathered ones. We had a couple of work tables about that size. Your videos takes me back!
Just found your drapery video. Thank you! I'm so excited to get started and know with your sharing of your expertise, I can do it! And save thousands$$
I own a 1910 Singer 66 "Red eye" and plan to make rod pocket curtains, some exposed to the West and South sun will be lined the others don't need lining. I bought 5 yards of 54" wide toile cotton fabric to start with, and went to measure the first window, which was 34" by 65" to go below the sill nicely, so using some math and the standard "fullness" multiplier of 1-1/2, plus the edge seams, it looks like each panel needs to be 29-1/2" wide, well gee, the fabric os 54" so it's not wide enough to get two panels from the width. Taking the panels from the length which with the hems etc would need about 79" I would be left with a piece of fabric about 24-1/2" wide, and another piece 65" long x 54" wide won't be long enough.
So unexpectedly it looks like I will have to make one full panel and one panel from a piece 24-1/2" wide plus another piece plus seam allowance to make up the width to get 29-1/2"
Ive never used a sewing machine, but how is the vertical seam treated to attach the 2 pieces to make one panel?
Excellent videos to learn fast and sweet. Ty, Older guy just bought a beginner sewing machine to dress up my place for fun. This really helps and if only i could work as fast as you. lol.
A beginner sewing machine will work just fine--my industrial machine only goes backwards and forwards and that's all you need for drapes😊
Thank you for this great video. You make it easy to understand and follow!!😃
Time to learn some better techniques since Grammy isn't with me. You make this look so easy glad I found you before I cut my fabric
Glad this was helpful!
You’re amazing! I’m so glad I found your channel!❤
So great to see another drapery video! I learned to make 3 sets of drapes from you. Now after a big home renovation project, I’m about to make lined curtains for the living and dining room.
Great tip about the 28 Oz. cans!
Thanks for watching!
Very good video. It reinforces everything taught in your lined drape videos. Very thorough and comprehensive! Thank you.
Thank you for watching!
Thanks so much for uploading this and the lined drapery videos which I have watched so many tines - I am nearly ready to start making curtains for my mobile home!!
You're welcome! You've got this!
Thank you for this BRILLIANT tutorial! Just the refresher course I needed before tackling a few curtain projects of my own. 😊
So glad you found it helpful!
Would definitely appreciate a video on ironing techniques- thank you for this video as it has helped greatly with my project (making drapes for my sister’s living room.
That's a great idea!
Great demonstration and pleasant to watch.
I found you awhile ago from your first drapery video, got hooked on your cross stitch, then came round circle to this video. It’s been a great journey and I hope you continue!
Oh, I love to hear this! I sort of took drapes for granted before this video and it makes me so happy to help others learn these easy techniques!
Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge! Love your videos!
You're so welcome!
Thanks!
Thank you!
I laughed out loud!! I tell people ALL the time - if you have company come over that will notice a little like "whatever" you need new friends!!!
Totally agree! Life is too short to sweat the small stuff!
Did you wash the fabric before cutting?
Thank you for this informative video.
No, I never pre wash drapery fabrics since they are usually dry clean only. However, once in awhile I will use a cotton quilting fabric that I add fusible interfacing to for extra stability and in that case, I do pre wash the cotton and iron it before fusing the interfacing to it.
I’m going to make draperies for my outdoor pergola so they will be in the weather. I’m going to buy Sunbrella fabric. my question is what I use the interfacing on the top if it’s going to be out in the weather? Is there such a thing as weatherproof interfacing? To hang it, I’m going to use the pins but perhaps clips would be better for outdoor use? I’m going to follow your video for everything else. I’m just not sure about the interfacing. Thank you! Great video!
I don't have experience with outdoor drapery but I'm guessing the Sunbrella might be sturdy enough to not need an upper interfacing. Rings might rust the fabric, so clips might be better.
@@kristamwest Thank you 😊
You said in the first video that the lining was cut the same size as the drape but if I do that it will not fold around the side the way I want.
I am sorry but I should have ask what size do I cut my lining. My fabric is 55" with a one inch side seam
You can see all the measurements at the Lined Drapery chart here:
www.avleaembroidery.com/product-page/lined-drapery-measurement-sketch
You are very good at explaining the process. I have sewn for many years but usually just muddled my way trough. However, I am stumped at the moment. Someone gave a a huge bolt of drapery material but when i went to use it, I found that it was in a continuous loop, I guess you would call it.. The open end , when lifted up was like a tube! How do I work with this...
So. it is 56 inches wide but actually 112 inches if I measured the circumference of the tube or loop. does this make sense to you?
I'm not familiar with that kind of fabric, but it might be double-wide drapery fabric. I don't have experience using it, so unfortunately, I can't make any recommendations.
@@kristamwest Thank you for your prompt reply. I do appreciate it.
Would I be right in saying as long as I use the length of the material as the vertical line or at least not again the grain I should be ok.
Without seeing the fabric, I can't say for certain, but that sounds about right. @@jocharron9115
@@kristamwest Thank you.
Thank you for all the help! Where do you buy your fabrics?
I have professional accounts through several different wholesalers.
Hi there, just wondering if you cut off your selvages first? I am starting a project and not sure what to do.
No, I never trim selvedges as they are there to prevent unravelling.
So many things in this video that amaze me. You literally make sewing curtains look easier than making a sandwich. Where can I find this fabric?
Ha ha! This fabric is from Cowtan and Tout--they're an interior design fabrics company and if you contact them, they can recommend someone near you that sells their fabrics. Their stuff is amazing quality and I use their fabrics for all my drapes.
By the way, you rearranged your sewing room - less walking back and forth between board and machine!
Krista I've watched part 1 & 2 and learned so much!! I've been sewing for years and this was a game changer!! Question: BIG Project - I am making lined dining room curtains and my finished measurements need to be 125 in wide X 101 in. long from rod to floor. If I calculate correctly for 54 in fabric width - I would need 5 widths/panels for double fullness. #1. Do I split one of the panels in half to make it even on both sides? or Do I just do 6 widths.
#2. Do I sew all the panels together to make one gigantic panel on each side? That seems so daunting and HUGE. Can I just make individual lined panels first then sew them together (somehow)? I want to know the professional way that YOU would do it. Thank you thank you!!
If I were making drapes for that large of a window, I would make multiple 55" panels for maximum light flexibility because you can then move and adjust them across the drapery rod as needed to block/filter light. Happy sewing!
This was great! I was just looking for a basic curtain tutorial, but I several new things, one being ease pleats. I'm not exactly sure of why it's called a pleat; it looked like you were sliding the needle under the sewing needle to maybe lengthen the seam size for a bit....is that right? I didn't see anything that looked like a pleat. I have definitely seen the fabric bubbles that you describe, and look forward to trying this technique to get rid of them. Do you have a video with more detail on ease pleats?
I guess that does sound odd, but I was trained to call them ease pleats :) They're really a teeny-tiny pleat you put in the fabric to keep it from bunching up at one end. I always use a dull machine needle to make them as it allows you more precision than trying to use your fingers (and keeps your fingers away from the needle!). Happy sewing!
HELLO Krista! Do you use drapery weights for non insulated curtains?
No, I don't use drapery weights. My drapery fabric is typically heavy enough on its own to hang properly.
Hi Krista. I love this latest video. I never thought about the issues with pattern repeat until watching this. What are your thoughts on using an interlining i.e. drapery fabric, cotton bump and then lining? Would you go about constructing the drapery panel differently if you were using interlining? Thanks.
If you're going to use an interlining, simply affix it to the lining and then proceed as shown in my Lined Drapery video. It really depends on the texture and drape you want of the finished curtain, but you can play around with different layers of fabric to achieve different weights. Happy sewing!
What is the name of your iron
Hi have been whatch ing your curtain making video and wondering how u curt your curtain panels out weather measure one and cutt the correct length one at a time so u have two separate curtain panels .with without cutting your curtain fabric up through the middle of the fabric .ca nt find any videos of how to cutt the curtain material I worked that have to full curtain panels the last section of curtain material I have join a panel on each curtain the back edge .I know how to match everything but I am sure weather have cut the material through middle i.e. many thanks for any advice would be greatfull as there no videos on how u curt your materials for curtain making .would greatfull any help .
I don't usually cut drapery fabric down the center motif because I want my curtains to have the motif matching at the center. If that's your goal, you need to buy extra fabric instead of cutting it down the center. Happy sewing!
What stitches did you use?
Just straight stitch
Do you use weights in your drapes/curtains?
No, I don't. I almost always use heavy fabric, so I never need weights :)
Great video thanks for the great presentation - yes I am guilty of the thread thing ua-cam.com/video/RbifFHDnQqc/v-deo.html I feel like you caught me out and I've stopped that now :-)
Good for you! Trim those threads!!