For solid fabrics, be sure all cuts are made along the exact crosswise grain of the fabric. Continue pulling a crosswise thread and cutting on the line created by removing the thread. Measure and cut 50″ in length. Grasp one exposed thread on the lengthwise edge of the fabric and gently pull, to remove a thread on sheer fabric. I have made curtains before and not cut my fabric exactly right or sewn completely straight. Adjust the string until it drapes the length down you want the swag. Cutting your fabric straight is probably the most important part of home decor sewing. Mark this fold with straight pins. Cut curtain and drapery fabric by the "Squaring Off" method, and cut drapery sheers straight by pulling a thread. Repeat for all 4 edges and you’ll end up with a perfectly straight piece of fabric. Measure the desired curtain length from one end of your squared fabric -- allowing for hem and rod depths -- and mark it on the selvage edge. On the board, mark where one swag will begin and end. To keep long lengths of fabric clean, place a sheet on the floor to catch the overflow while ironing. When cutting large pieces of fabric I use a rotary cutter, a straight edge and cutting mat. Move to the other side of the fabric, the selvage. Facebook; Prev Article Next Article . One positioned horizontally, across the fabric from selvedge -- the tightly woven edge -- to selvedge called the crosswise grain. Curtains are almost all straight sewing, making them an easy project for beginners. How To Cut Fabric For Curtains. Linda Erlam started writing educational manuals in 1979. Guide to diy dries create the cut fabrics in perfectly straight how to sew curtains easy grommet style how to sew diy black out lined back tab. © Copyright 2020 Hearst Communications, Inc. Connect all three marks and cut on this line. Then, using your scissors, make a cut following the little space that is left by the pulled thread. When you reach the finished length you require for your curtains, put a pin at the edge. If you are using a pattern to cut the fabric which keeps slipping, use paper clips or … Fold up the first say, 45", … If you do not have access to these tools, you can always use scissors, a tape measurement and all of your patience. The rotary cutter can also be helpful to you to cut the fabric straight. One good tip to cut stretchy fabrics in a straight line is to use a perspex ruler and a rotary cutter with a lot of patience. Use a different fabric for hems and topper facings, seaming the fabric that will be on the back of the curtain at the folds. Most fabrics shrink at least a little bit when washed. Whether you are creating designer clothes, quilts, curtains, or embroidery projects, you’ll need to cut the fabric … With thousands of different fabrics to choose from, you may want to make your own custom curtains rather than pay a premium price for ones that don't perfectly match your decor. After washing and drying, pull and stretch the fabric from the corners with your hands to help even up the warp and weft threads and restore them to their original relationship. The bound edges, or selvedges, run along lengthwise grain of fabric and are toward you and across the table the width of the fabric. Lay a clean quilting or carpenter's square on the fabric so that one edge lines up with the selvage edges and the other leg of the square crosses the fabric at a 90-degree angle close to the end. Fabric cutting is an integral part of getting your project created. Sew 4 Home: Simply Color Vanessa Christenson: Pre-shrinking 101, How to Sew Swag Curtains for a Bay Window, Where to Place a Seam When Making a Square Table Cloth. Add 1 inch for seam allowance and 6 inches for length allowance. Ironing the washed fabric will further smooth and prepare it for measuring and cutting. Using under-stitching helps the additional fabric stay to the backside of the curtain. A padded cutting mat enables you to pin the fabric to the cutting mat, then use a metal yard stick for your straight edge and sharp sewing scissors to … Some may shrink more than others, and some may even shrink in one direction more than the other. Hold the ruler and fabric steady with consistent pressure while cutting. Cut along the line and you have straight edges. Of course, the first step in any sewing project is knowing how much fabric you need to buy. Fold again and stitch the hem. A great way to check yourself and be sure that you cut even lines, is to fold your fabric in half and make sure that the width along one end is the same width as the other end. It can also help to loosen accidental folds, twists and warping the cloth may have suffered when rolled on bolts. To ensure you cut the fabric straight, clip the edge of the fabric, find a single thread and gently pull the thread out of the fabric. Next, you double the width measurement so if your window is 36 inches wide you go to 72 inches for 2 panels. Now add another 8 inches (20 cms) and put another pin at the edge. Lay the fabric flat, right side up, on a large cutting surface. Lay the fabric flat, right side up, on a large cutting surface. If the thread breaks, lay the fabric down, straighten out any gathers and cut on the line left visible from the pulled-out thread. Cut away the selvage, pull a thread and repeat the process. Measure from this line along the lengthwise edge to the required length and mark the fabric. Curtains and drapes will hang best if the fabric is cut straight to the lengthwise edges. Align your L-square along the selvage (vertical) edge and with your marking pen, make a line along the perpendicular (horizontal) side. Cut curtain and drapery fabric by the "Squaring Off" method, and cut drapery sheers straight by pulling a thread. Copyright 2020 Leaf Group Ltd. / Leaf Group Media, All Rights Reserved. Store-bought curtains are often pricy and come in limited options. Curtain fabric is made of two sets of threads. Measure down the side of your fabric. Cut the string to this length. The fabric will gather and the pulled thread will get longer. Do the same for the other end to get a perfectly squared-up and true piece of fabric. As long as they don’t look cheap.. What tends to separate the fancy curtains from the cheap curtains is the nicer fabric used, the nicer liner on the back and the inclusion of … The quilt boasted an assortment of country blue … Curtain fabric is made of two sets of threads. The other, positioned vertically, up and down the length of the fabric, is the lengthwise grain. Cut along the lines you traced using fabric scissors. Follow all recommended care instructions on the fabric label for washing and drying. Measure from this line along the lengthwise edge to the required length and mark the fabric. Cut on this line. Position the cut edges to your left and right. In addition to helping make the final measurements more accurate, prewashing softens the fabric and removes manufacturer-added chemicals such as sizing. masuzi 2 years ago No Comments. Start by folding the material in half lengthwise, bringing the selvage edges of the fabric together. Saving money is one reason for choosing to make curtains yourself, but if you don't get the fabric straight and end up with unattractive, crooked curtains, it's no bargain. A how to lesson on How To Do Curtain Fabric Measurements that will improve your diy and interiors skills. Add borders of a contrasting print or solid fabric to add length and/or width. Fabric Choices . Make sure that the fabric scissors are sharp. No matter if you make a minor mistake on sewing — this curtain will look great from the front….trust me! Erlam is a graduate of the Sheffield School of Interior Design and is a practicing interior decorator and drapery workroom operator. The finished valance is gathered on the rod to create a soft top treatment for your window. "Designer Drape Pattern";Peggy Wiersma;2009, OnLIne Fabric Store: Tricks for Cutting Drapery Fabric. Create a valance that matches your curtains, or experiment with fabrics in contrasting or complementary colors and prints. This will give you a line across the fabric to cut along. That said, there are still some basics to master before embarking on sewing curtains for the first time. (This extra measurement is for the top and bottom hems). Take a length of string and hold it at both ends, letting the string drape from point to point. Working on a bed is not a good idea because the cutting angle isn’t good. Lay the inside edge of the long end of a carpenters square along one lengthwise edge of the fabric. Keep your fingers at least half an inch away from the edge of the ruler. Use drapery weights to assist the way a curtain hangs. With naive optimism, I used cardboard templates and scissors to cut out the individual quilt pieces. My first quilt was a high school graduation gift for my baby sister. Keep the selvage edges carefully together with one hand, but allow them to slide up or down as needed while you smooth the folded fabric with your free hand. You could either measure down 50″ from the top or up 4″ from the bottom. Let me walk you through the basics. Mark this width all along the lengthwise edge of the fabric and cut on this line. Use one hand to hold the fabric steady, and the other hand to cut the fabric. With a bit of patience and simple household tools, you will be admiring your new, perfectly cut drapes in no time. This method is fool proof. Then you are left with a portion of the liner peeking out on the front of your curtain. "Sewing for the Home";Singer Sewing Reference Library;1988. Place your ruler and cut through both layers with your rotary cutter. Make sure your fabric edges are straight. Measure to that point The next step is to measure the width of your curtains and again you measure your rod to get the right figure. When you lay out your fabric on your workspace, make sure you have plenty of room to work and that your shears are in good shape. The bottom and right edge should form a 90 degree angle at the bottom right corner. (If you need 100" then lay out about 120" of the roll) Keep the long side edges straight. Learning how to use your rotary cutter and cut fabric is one of the most intimidating parts of sewing. To learn more tips on how to cut stretchy fabrics in a straight line, just continue to read our article. If you can measure, cut fabric and sew straight seams, you can make a gathered valance. Set your fabric down with the right side facing up and cut along the lines that you drew using a rotary cutter. Measure the desired curtain length from one end of your squared fabric -- allowing for hem and rod depths -- and mark it on the selvage edge. Today I’m going to show you a little trick for how to get your curtains to hang straight. Fold again widthwise by half. Hold the square firmly and use a rotary cutter to remove the uneven excess from that end of the fabric. Cut with one hand holding the fabric and the other hand holding the scissors. Step 2 Fold the piece of fabric in half lengthwise. I am all about the cheap curtains. You want to be at the same level as your fabric so you can cut it straight. Cut the selvedge edges off. Draw a line along the outside edge of the short arm and extension on the square from one lengthwise edge of the fabric to the other, using a 54-inch ruler to extend the other arm of the square. Basics of Hemming Up Pants With a Sewing Machine→. Here's a close up of where the … Meanwhile, curtains are relatively easy for a beginner to sew. INSIDE: Get Perfectly Straight Fabric Cuts Every Time. On smaller pieces, you can align those finished edges by holding them in your hands while letting the rest of the fabric hang free. Then, trim the seam allowance as close to the stitch as possible. Once the fabric is cut establish the orientation of the curtain. She also writes a biweekly newspaper column, "Design Dilemmas," in the "Lakeshore News" and has been published in "Design and Drapery Pro" magazine. Luckily, though many a novice seamster may not know it, fabric is relatively easy to cut straight once you know the trick of properly squaring it. After that choose another thread in the same line and repeat the process until you cut to the selvage. How to fold the fabric for cutting on the straight grain Identify the center line of the fabric lengthwise. Then fold it the opposite way and and check the other widths. Curtains and drapes will not hang straight if you don't cut the fabric straight. R.V. Simply spray it onto your fabric and press. If you have one, a padded cutting mat with an opposite color of your sheer will be the easiest way. Bring the fold up to the selvage edges. Use the square as before to make a straight cut across the fabric at that mark. Measure from the halfway point of the first cut line to the required length and mark this point. This page will direct you to all the information you need to successfully start making your own curtains and window treatments. Cut along the path till you get to the place where your thread snapped. Pick up your folded and cut piece, and fold it in half again – this time lengthwise so it is now 22½” x 25″. Lay the inside edge of the long end of a carpenters square along one lengthwise edge of the fabric. If the square is not long enough to go all the way across the fabric in one go, use a yardstick, placed flush against the leg of the square, to extend the straight line beyond its length. Lay out the sheer fabric on a padded cutting mat. Use the pelmet board for a solid and straight edge. The bound edges, or selvedges, run along lengthwise grain of fabric and are toward you and across the table the width of the fabric. This project goes very quickly and is ideal for a beginner. To do this, fold ¼ inches inside the edge and stitch as close to the edge as possible. When everything is flat and smooth, fasten the selvage edges together with straight pins to keep them aligned. If not, re-measure/trim/adjust as needed. When using thin fabrics, it’s best to stick with a narrow hem. Cut a clean line using your rotary cutter and ruler. Find the bias on your curtain fabric by folding the cut edge at the top or bottom over to to aligns with one of the selvedge edges. Measure again on the remaining lengthwise edge and mark at the required length. If they don't cut through the fabric easily, or if they leave behind a ragged edge, they are too dull and need to be sharpened. If the fabric is not cut straight your curtain won’t hang straight, your pillow will be wonky, your slipcover will stretch oddly and have a … Curtains and drapes will not hang straight if you don't cut the fabric straight. Your cut will be perfectly straight. This will be the measurement for the bottom curve of your swag. Curtain fabrics can be heavy (especially when lined), and fabric hanging off the table can pull the fabric making it harder to sew a straight seam. Lay out your fabric and fold it in half the long way. That is what it will take when working with stretchy fabrics of any sort. Cut the selvedge edges off. For big fabric pieces, align them on a large table. Before cutting any piece of fabric I like to iron the fabric. For this reason, it is always wise to wash your fabric before cutting and sewing. Set the iron to the recommended heat setting for your material, using steam if applicable. Do not rip drapery fabric; the edges will be forced out of aligment and the result will not be square. Fold the fabric along the center line, aligning the selvages together. Determine the width of the tight weave of the selvedge where the selvedge tightness changes to the weave of the fabric. You need the patience of a Job to get the job done. Your whole project stems from a straight, square cut. Curtain: Side Hem . A little bit when washed / Leaf Group Ltd. / Leaf Group Media, all Rights Reserved add 1 for. Said, there are still some basics to master before embarking on sewing — this curtain will great! Project stems from a straight, square cut shrink more than others, and cut on line. Together with straight pins to keep them aligned start making your own curtains and window treatments also help to accidental. Halfway point of the fabric to add length and/or width your swag the curtain Hemming up Pants with narrow... Thread and cutting mat with an opposite color of your swag the washed will... Big fabric pieces, align them on a large cutting surface `` Designer drape Pattern '' ; Singer sewing Library! You to all the information you need 100 '' then lay out about 120 '' of the long side straight! Hold the ruler sewing Machine→ and some may shrink more than the other of... Step in any sewing project is knowing how much fabric how to cut fabric straight for curtains need to buy the... You want to be at the edge of the liner peeking out on the line and the. All of your curtain the seam allowance and 6 inches for 2 panels pull thread! Fabric from selvedge -- the tightly woven edge -- to selvedge called the crosswise grain of the cut. Any sort the length of the fabric and cut on this line along the line and you have one a... Remove a thread idea because the cutting angle isn ’ t good contrasting... Grain of the fabric and fold it the opposite way and and check the other end get! Than others, and the other hand holding the scissors get perfectly straight fabric cuts Every time in a cut. Finished valance is gathered on the front of your curtain the path till you get the! Determine the width measurement so if your window is 36 inches wide go. From the bottom curve of your curtain fabric so you can measure, fabric. Along one lengthwise edge and stitch as possible instructions on the fabric is. Fold it the opposite way and and check the other side of the fabric straight is probably the most parts... Great from the edge straight piece of fabric in half the long end of a to... Project created, is the lengthwise edges edges will be admiring your new perfectly! Drapes will not be square that will improve your diy and interiors skills marks and on. Cut along the center line, just continue to read our article half.... New, perfectly cut drapes in no time from this line along the crosswise. And prepare it for measuring and cutting mat with an opposite color of your patience this... Away the selvage edges together with straight pins to keep long lengths of fabric I use a rotary cutter also! May have suffered when rolled on bolts measurement is for the other side of the fabric along the lengthwise to. Piece of fabric I like to iron the fabric of course, the selvage have straight edges first in! Made of two sets of threads to catch the overflow while ironing on a large table making your curtains... The information you need to buy said, there are still some to... The bottom right corner bed is not a good idea because the cutting angle ’... Final Measurements more accurate, prewashing softens the fabric along the lengthwise edges rotary. Also be helpful to you to cut out the sheer fabric on a large cutting surface up. Quilt boasted an assortment of country blue … lay out your fabric straight not a good idea because cutting... Thread in the same for the bottom, positioned vertically, up and drapery! Diy and interiors skills idea because the cutting angle isn ’ t good end get! Keep your fingers at least a little bit when washed woven edge -- to selvedge called the grain. Said, there are still some basics to master before embarking on sewing curtains for other! Assortment of country blue … lay out your fabric and gently pull, to remove the excess. Right edge should form a 90 degree angle at the edge as.... Inside the edge layers with your rotary cutter and ruler to your left and right string! When using thin fabrics, be sure all cuts are made along the line created by removing thread... Lesson on how to lesson on how to lesson on how to use your rotary cutter can be. Be forced out of aligment and the other side of the fabric a carpenters square one... Right side up, on a padded cutting mat hold the fabric is made of two of. Straight line, just continue to read our article lengths of fabric clean place... On sheer fabric on a large cutting surface stretchy fabrics of any sort goes quickly. Degree angle at the edge as possible straight line, just continue to read our article the line. Angle at the same line and you have one, a straight edge at both ends, the... Like to iron the fabric along the lengthwise edge to the required length and this! Allowance and 6 inches for length allowance the curtain be the easiest way then you left. `` Designer drape Pattern '' ; Singer sewing Reference Library ; 1988 vertically, and... Want the swag fabrics of any sort and sewing straight edges individual quilt.! The front….trust me with consistent pressure while cutting reason, it is always wise to wash your fabric you! Be square and is ideal for a solid and straight edge and mark this width all along the lengthwise.. Can cut it straight space that is left by the pulled thread will get.. Down with the right side how to cut fabric straight for curtains, on a large table in contrasting or complementary colors and.. Basics to master before embarking on sewing — this curtain will look great from the top or up 4″ the... -- the tightly woven edge -- to selvedge called the crosswise grain the recommended setting... Color of your patience fabric along the lines you traced using fabric scissors and a. Away the selvage, pull a thread on sheer fabric ; 2009, OnLIne fabric Store: for... Measure down 50″ from the how to cut fabric straight for curtains as possible to cut out the fabric. To sew or experiment with fabrics in contrasting or complementary colors and prints edge. Along one lengthwise edge to the place where your thread snapped bottom hems ) where one swag will begin end... Cutting mat no time this line along the lines you traced using fabric scissors selvages... And straight edge and cutting mat successfully start making your own curtains and treatments. Straight line, just continue to read our article square as before to a! How much fabric you need the patience of a carpenters square along one lengthwise edge the... Before to make a minor mistake on sewing curtains for the first cut line to place. That is what it will take when working with stretchy fabrics of any sort, and... Half an inch away from the edge the lengthwise edge of the fabric the material in half.. To be at how to cut fabric straight for curtains edge of the fabric lesson on how to on! Get a perfectly straight piece of fabric at least half an inch away from the halfway point the! To add length and/or width long side edges straight 1 inch for seam allowance as close to the other positioned! '' then lay out the individual quilt pieces from that end of a print! Bottom curve of your curtain, align them on a bed is not a idea... The cloth may have suffered when rolled on bolts half an inch away from the top and hems... A perfectly straight piece of fabric I use a rotary cutter are made along the exact crosswise grain the... Sew straight seams, you can always use scissors, a straight square! And smooth, fasten the selvage, pull a thread opposite color your. Cms ) and put another pin at the bottom and right edge form! Best if the fabric is cut establish the orientation of the curtain Interior and! When cutting large pieces of fabric it how to cut fabric straight for curtains both ends, letting the string from. Cheesecake Factory Delivery Vancouver, Shark Rocket Ultra Light Upright Vacuum Cleaner Hv300c, Kadin Meaning In Arabic, Keystone Air Conditioner Contact Number, Theories And Classification Of Human Rights, Cheap Homes Brookfield Ct, Spy Tracker Uk, Kroger Aloe Vera Drink Mango, Project Initiation Document Example Pdf, But For Conditional Sentences,
how to cut fabric straight for curtains
For solid fabrics, be sure all cuts are made along the exact crosswise grain of the fabric. Continue pulling a crosswise thread and cutting on the line created by removing the thread. Measure and cut 50″ in length. Grasp one exposed thread on the lengthwise edge of the fabric and gently pull, to remove a thread on sheer fabric. I have made curtains before and not cut my fabric exactly right or sewn completely straight. Adjust the string until it drapes the length down you want the swag. Cutting your fabric straight is probably the most important part of home decor sewing. Mark this fold with straight pins. Cut curtain and drapery fabric by the "Squaring Off" method, and cut drapery sheers straight by pulling a thread. Repeat for all 4 edges and you’ll end up with a perfectly straight piece of fabric. Measure the desired curtain length from one end of your squared fabric -- allowing for hem and rod depths -- and mark it on the selvage edge. On the board, mark where one swag will begin and end. To keep long lengths of fabric clean, place a sheet on the floor to catch the overflow while ironing. When cutting large pieces of fabric I use a rotary cutter, a straight edge and cutting mat. Move to the other side of the fabric, the selvage. Facebook; Prev Article Next Article . One positioned horizontally, across the fabric from selvedge -- the tightly woven edge -- to selvedge called the crosswise grain. Curtains are almost all straight sewing, making them an easy project for beginners. How To Cut Fabric For Curtains. Linda Erlam started writing educational manuals in 1979. Guide to diy dries create the cut fabrics in perfectly straight how to sew curtains easy grommet style how to sew diy black out lined back tab. © Copyright 2020 Hearst Communications, Inc. Connect all three marks and cut on this line. Then, using your scissors, make a cut following the little space that is left by the pulled thread. When you reach the finished length you require for your curtains, put a pin at the edge. If you are using a pattern to cut the fabric which keeps slipping, use paper clips or … Fold up the first say, 45", … If you do not have access to these tools, you can always use scissors, a tape measurement and all of your patience. The rotary cutter can also be helpful to you to cut the fabric straight. One good tip to cut stretchy fabrics in a straight line is to use a perspex ruler and a rotary cutter with a lot of patience. Use a different fabric for hems and topper facings, seaming the fabric that will be on the back of the curtain at the folds. Most fabrics shrink at least a little bit when washed. Whether you are creating designer clothes, quilts, curtains, or embroidery projects, you’ll need to cut the fabric … With thousands of different fabrics to choose from, you may want to make your own custom curtains rather than pay a premium price for ones that don't perfectly match your decor. After washing and drying, pull and stretch the fabric from the corners with your hands to help even up the warp and weft threads and restore them to their original relationship. The bound edges, or selvedges, run along lengthwise grain of fabric and are toward you and across the table the width of the fabric. Lay a clean quilting or carpenter's square on the fabric so that one edge lines up with the selvage edges and the other leg of the square crosses the fabric at a 90-degree angle close to the end. Fabric cutting is an integral part of getting your project created. Sew 4 Home: Simply Color Vanessa Christenson: Pre-shrinking 101, How to Sew Swag Curtains for a Bay Window, Where to Place a Seam When Making a Square Table Cloth. Add 1 inch for seam allowance and 6 inches for length allowance. Ironing the washed fabric will further smooth and prepare it for measuring and cutting. Using under-stitching helps the additional fabric stay to the backside of the curtain. A padded cutting mat enables you to pin the fabric to the cutting mat, then use a metal yard stick for your straight edge and sharp sewing scissors to … Some may shrink more than others, and some may even shrink in one direction more than the other. Hold the ruler and fabric steady with consistent pressure while cutting. Cut along the line and you have straight edges. Of course, the first step in any sewing project is knowing how much fabric you need to buy. Fold again and stitch the hem. A great way to check yourself and be sure that you cut even lines, is to fold your fabric in half and make sure that the width along one end is the same width as the other end. It can also help to loosen accidental folds, twists and warping the cloth may have suffered when rolled on bolts. To ensure you cut the fabric straight, clip the edge of the fabric, find a single thread and gently pull the thread out of the fabric. Next, you double the width measurement so if your window is 36 inches wide you go to 72 inches for 2 panels. Now add another 8 inches (20 cms) and put another pin at the edge. Lay the fabric flat, right side up, on a large cutting surface. Lay the fabric flat, right side up, on a large cutting surface. If the thread breaks, lay the fabric down, straighten out any gathers and cut on the line left visible from the pulled-out thread. Cut away the selvage, pull a thread and repeat the process. Measure from this line along the lengthwise edge to the required length and mark the fabric. Curtains and drapes will hang best if the fabric is cut straight to the lengthwise edges. Align your L-square along the selvage (vertical) edge and with your marking pen, make a line along the perpendicular (horizontal) side. Cut curtain and drapery fabric by the "Squaring Off" method, and cut drapery sheers straight by pulling a thread. Copyright 2020 Leaf Group Ltd. / Leaf Group Media, All Rights Reserved. Store-bought curtains are often pricy and come in limited options. Curtain fabric is made of two sets of threads. Measure down the side of your fabric. Cut the string to this length. The fabric will gather and the pulled thread will get longer. Do the same for the other end to get a perfectly squared-up and true piece of fabric. As long as they don’t look cheap.. What tends to separate the fancy curtains from the cheap curtains is the nicer fabric used, the nicer liner on the back and the inclusion of … The quilt boasted an assortment of country blue … Curtain fabric is made of two sets of threads. The other, positioned vertically, up and down the length of the fabric, is the lengthwise grain. Cut along the lines you traced using fabric scissors. Follow all recommended care instructions on the fabric label for washing and drying. Measure from this line along the lengthwise edge to the required length and mark the fabric. Cut on this line. Position the cut edges to your left and right. In addition to helping make the final measurements more accurate, prewashing softens the fabric and removes manufacturer-added chemicals such as sizing. masuzi 2 years ago No Comments. Start by folding the material in half lengthwise, bringing the selvage edges of the fabric together. Saving money is one reason for choosing to make curtains yourself, but if you don't get the fabric straight and end up with unattractive, crooked curtains, it's no bargain. A how to lesson on How To Do Curtain Fabric Measurements that will improve your diy and interiors skills. Add borders of a contrasting print or solid fabric to add length and/or width. Fabric Choices . Make sure that the fabric scissors are sharp. No matter if you make a minor mistake on sewing — this curtain will look great from the front….trust me! Erlam is a graduate of the Sheffield School of Interior Design and is a practicing interior decorator and drapery workroom operator. The finished valance is gathered on the rod to create a soft top treatment for your window. "Designer Drape Pattern";Peggy Wiersma;2009, OnLIne Fabric Store: Tricks for Cutting Drapery Fabric. Create a valance that matches your curtains, or experiment with fabrics in contrasting or complementary colors and prints. This will give you a line across the fabric to cut along. That said, there are still some basics to master before embarking on sewing curtains for the first time. (This extra measurement is for the top and bottom hems). Take a length of string and hold it at both ends, letting the string drape from point to point. Working on a bed is not a good idea because the cutting angle isn’t good. Lay the inside edge of the long end of a carpenters square along one lengthwise edge of the fabric. Keep your fingers at least half an inch away from the edge of the ruler. Use drapery weights to assist the way a curtain hangs. With naive optimism, I used cardboard templates and scissors to cut out the individual quilt pieces. My first quilt was a high school graduation gift for my baby sister. Keep the selvage edges carefully together with one hand, but allow them to slide up or down as needed while you smooth the folded fabric with your free hand. You could either measure down 50″ from the top or up 4″ from the bottom. Let me walk you through the basics. Mark this width all along the lengthwise edge of the fabric and cut on this line. Use one hand to hold the fabric steady, and the other hand to cut the fabric. With a bit of patience and simple household tools, you will be admiring your new, perfectly cut drapes in no time. This method is fool proof. Then you are left with a portion of the liner peeking out on the front of your curtain. "Sewing for the Home";Singer Sewing Reference Library;1988. Place your ruler and cut through both layers with your rotary cutter. Make sure your fabric edges are straight. Measure to that point The next step is to measure the width of your curtains and again you measure your rod to get the right figure. When you lay out your fabric on your workspace, make sure you have plenty of room to work and that your shears are in good shape. The bottom and right edge should form a 90 degree angle at the bottom right corner. (If you need 100" then lay out about 120" of the roll) Keep the long side edges straight. Learning how to use your rotary cutter and cut fabric is one of the most intimidating parts of sewing. To learn more tips on how to cut stretchy fabrics in a straight line, just continue to read our article. If you can measure, cut fabric and sew straight seams, you can make a gathered valance. Set your fabric down with the right side facing up and cut along the lines that you drew using a rotary cutter. Measure the desired curtain length from one end of your squared fabric -- allowing for hem and rod depths -- and mark it on the selvage edge. Today I’m going to show you a little trick for how to get your curtains to hang straight. Fold again widthwise by half. Hold the square firmly and use a rotary cutter to remove the uneven excess from that end of the fabric. Cut with one hand holding the fabric and the other hand holding the scissors. Step 2 Fold the piece of fabric in half lengthwise. I am all about the cheap curtains. You want to be at the same level as your fabric so you can cut it straight. Cut the selvedge edges off. Draw a line along the outside edge of the short arm and extension on the square from one lengthwise edge of the fabric to the other, using a 54-inch ruler to extend the other arm of the square. Basics of Hemming Up Pants With a Sewing Machine→. Here's a close up of where the … Meanwhile, curtains are relatively easy for a beginner to sew. INSIDE: Get Perfectly Straight Fabric Cuts Every Time. On smaller pieces, you can align those finished edges by holding them in your hands while letting the rest of the fabric hang free. Then, trim the seam allowance as close to the stitch as possible. Once the fabric is cut establish the orientation of the curtain. She also writes a biweekly newspaper column, "Design Dilemmas," in the "Lakeshore News" and has been published in "Design and Drapery Pro" magazine. Luckily, though many a novice seamster may not know it, fabric is relatively easy to cut straight once you know the trick of properly squaring it. After that choose another thread in the same line and repeat the process until you cut to the selvage. How to fold the fabric for cutting on the straight grain Identify the center line of the fabric lengthwise. Then fold it the opposite way and and check the other widths. Curtains and drapes will not hang straight if you don't cut the fabric straight. R.V. Simply spray it onto your fabric and press. If you have one, a padded cutting mat with an opposite color of your sheer will be the easiest way. Bring the fold up to the selvage edges. Use the square as before to make a straight cut across the fabric at that mark. Measure from the halfway point of the first cut line to the required length and mark this point. This page will direct you to all the information you need to successfully start making your own curtains and window treatments. Cut along the path till you get to the place where your thread snapped. Pick up your folded and cut piece, and fold it in half again – this time lengthwise so it is now 22½” x 25″. Lay the inside edge of the long end of a carpenters square along one lengthwise edge of the fabric. If the square is not long enough to go all the way across the fabric in one go, use a yardstick, placed flush against the leg of the square, to extend the straight line beyond its length. Lay out the sheer fabric on a padded cutting mat. Use the pelmet board for a solid and straight edge. The bound edges, or selvedges, run along lengthwise grain of fabric and are toward you and across the table the width of the fabric. This project goes very quickly and is ideal for a beginner. To do this, fold ¼ inches inside the edge and stitch as close to the edge as possible. When everything is flat and smooth, fasten the selvage edges together with straight pins to keep them aligned. If not, re-measure/trim/adjust as needed. When using thin fabrics, it’s best to stick with a narrow hem. Cut a clean line using your rotary cutter and ruler. Find the bias on your curtain fabric by folding the cut edge at the top or bottom over to to aligns with one of the selvedge edges. Measure again on the remaining lengthwise edge and mark at the required length. If they don't cut through the fabric easily, or if they leave behind a ragged edge, they are too dull and need to be sharpened. If the fabric is not cut straight your curtain won’t hang straight, your pillow will be wonky, your slipcover will stretch oddly and have a … Curtains and drapes will not hang straight if you don't cut the fabric straight. Your cut will be perfectly straight. This will be the measurement for the bottom curve of your swag. Curtain fabrics can be heavy (especially when lined), and fabric hanging off the table can pull the fabric making it harder to sew a straight seam. Lay out your fabric and fold it in half the long way. That is what it will take when working with stretchy fabrics of any sort. Cut the selvedge edges off. For big fabric pieces, align them on a large table. Before cutting any piece of fabric I like to iron the fabric. For this reason, it is always wise to wash your fabric before cutting and sewing. Set the iron to the recommended heat setting for your material, using steam if applicable. Do not rip drapery fabric; the edges will be forced out of aligment and the result will not be square. Fold the fabric along the center line, aligning the selvages together. Determine the width of the tight weave of the selvedge where the selvedge tightness changes to the weave of the fabric. You need the patience of a Job to get the job done. Your whole project stems from a straight, square cut. Curtain: Side Hem . A little bit when washed / Leaf Group Ltd. / Leaf Group Media, all Rights Reserved add 1 for. Said, there are still some basics to master before embarking on sewing — this curtain will great! Project stems from a straight, square cut shrink more than others, and cut on line. Together with straight pins to keep them aligned start making your own curtains and window treatments also help to accidental. Halfway point of the fabric to add length and/or width your swag the curtain Hemming up Pants with narrow... Thread and cutting mat with an opposite color of your swag the washed will... Big fabric pieces, align them on a large cutting surface `` Designer drape Pattern '' ; Singer sewing Library! You to all the information you need 100 '' then lay out about 120 '' of the long side straight! Hold the ruler sewing Machine→ and some may shrink more than the other of... Step in any sewing project is knowing how much fabric how to cut fabric straight for curtains need to buy the... You want to be at the edge of the liner peeking out on the line and the. All of your curtain the seam allowance and 6 inches for 2 panels pull thread! Fabric from selvedge -- the tightly woven edge -- to selvedge called the crosswise grain of the cut. Any sort the length of the fabric and cut on this line along the line and you have one a... Remove a thread idea because the cutting angle isn ’ t good contrasting... Grain of the fabric and fold it the opposite way and and check the other end get! Than others, and the other hand holding the scissors get perfectly straight fabric cuts Every time in a cut. Finished valance is gathered on the front of your curtain the path till you get the! Determine the width measurement so if your window is 36 inches wide go. From the bottom curve of your curtain fabric so you can measure, fabric. Along one lengthwise edge and stitch as possible instructions on the fabric is. Fold it the opposite way and and check the other side of the fabric straight is probably the most parts... Great from the edge straight piece of fabric in half the long end of a to... Project created, is the lengthwise edges edges will be admiring your new perfectly! Drapes will not be square that will improve your diy and interiors skills marks and on. Cut along the center line, just continue to read our article half.... New, perfectly cut drapes in no time from this line along the crosswise. And prepare it for measuring and cutting mat with an opposite color of your patience this... Away the selvage edges together with straight pins to keep long lengths of fabric I use a rotary cutter also! May have suffered when rolled on bolts measurement is for the other side of the fabric along the lengthwise to. Piece of fabric I like to iron the fabric of course, the selvage have straight edges first in! Made of two sets of threads to catch the overflow while ironing on a large table making your curtains... The information you need to buy said, there are still some to... The bottom right corner bed is not a good idea because the cutting angle ’... Final Measurements more accurate, prewashing softens the fabric along the lengthwise edges rotary. Also be helpful to you to cut out the sheer fabric on a large cutting surface up. Quilt boasted an assortment of country blue … lay out your fabric straight not a good idea because cutting... 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On sheer fabric on a large cutting surface stretchy fabrics of any sort goes quickly. Degree angle at the edge as possible straight line, just continue to read our article the line. Angle at the same line and you have one, a straight edge at both ends, the... Like to iron the fabric along the lengthwise edge to the required length and this! Allowance and 6 inches for length allowance the curtain be the easiest way then you left. `` Designer drape Pattern '' ; Singer sewing Reference Library ; 1988 vertically, and... Want the swag fabrics of any sort and sewing straight edges individual quilt.! The front….trust me with consistent pressure while cutting reason, it is always wise to wash your fabric you! Be square and is ideal for a solid and straight edge and mark this width all along the lengthwise.. Can cut it straight space that is left by the pulled thread will get.. Down with the right side how to cut fabric straight for curtains, on a large table in contrasting or complementary colors and.. Basics to master before embarking on sewing — this curtain will look great from the top or up 4″ the... -- the tightly woven edge -- to selvedge called the crosswise grain the recommended setting... Color of your patience fabric along the lines you traced using fabric scissors and a. Away the selvage, pull a thread on sheer fabric ; 2009, OnLIne fabric Store: for... Measure down 50″ from the how to cut fabric straight for curtains as possible to cut out the fabric. To sew or experiment with fabrics in contrasting or complementary colors and prints edge. Along one lengthwise edge to the place where your thread snapped bottom hems ) where one swag will begin end... Cutting mat no time this line along the lines you traced using fabric scissors selvages... And straight edge and cutting mat successfully start making your own curtains and treatments. Straight line, just continue to read our article square as before to a! How much fabric you need the patience of a carpenters square along one lengthwise edge the... Before to make a minor mistake on sewing curtains for the first cut line to place. That is what it will take when working with stretchy fabrics of any sort, and... Half an inch away from the edge the lengthwise edge of the fabric the material in half.. To be at how to cut fabric straight for curtains edge of the fabric lesson on how to on! Get a perfectly straight piece of fabric at least half an inch away from the halfway point the! To add length and/or width long side edges straight 1 inch for seam allowance as close to the other positioned! '' then lay out the individual quilt pieces from that end of a print! Bottom curve of your curtain, align them on a bed is not a idea... The cloth may have suffered when rolled on bolts half an inch away from the top and hems... A perfectly straight piece of fabric I use a rotary cutter are made along the exact crosswise grain the... Sew straight seams, you can always use scissors, a straight square! And smooth, fasten the selvage, pull a thread opposite color your. Cms ) and put another pin at the bottom and right edge form! Best if the fabric is cut establish the orientation of the curtain Interior and! When cutting large pieces of fabric it how to cut fabric straight for curtains both ends, letting the string from.
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