Curtains. How hard to make your own?

[snickersnack]

I need a pair of curtains for dd's room. Was all set to order some from John Lewis but then realised I might be able to make them myself but have no idea where to start.

I have a sewing machine and am borderline competent to use it. Have made various items of clothing - would curtains be easier or harder? What would I need? It wouldn't need to have a fancy top as there's a pelmet up already.

Final question on lining - I have a feeling blackout lining would be harder to work with than ordinary lining? Is that true? She doesn't really need full blackout effect these days so I could get away with a thick lining if needed.

[LIZS]

If you can sew a straight line then it is very easy. Make sure you allow enough material and if you do use blackout lining you'd need a fairly strong material for the curtain itself (ie not lightweight gingham)

[middymo]

Very easy if you have a small window. Pain in the @rse if you have large windows to make for, and little floor space to make them on.

[mellifluouscauliflower]

Blackout lining is easier to work with that normal lining because it doesn't fray, so doesn't need hemming. It is slightly thicker so you need to make sure that your sewing machine is up to the job. (Not all of them are). I used a normal weight cotton and blackout lining and they are fine.

If you are looking to save money, order the material from one of the websites from the US. Even after shipping, a good fabric is far cheaper in the US and they have a much wider choice of designs.

[TheYearOfTheCat]

Good tip about ordering from the US - although a word of warning - I did this, and got stung for a huge amount of import duty - it made it more expensive than buying here.

If you know anyone in the US, ask if you can get it delivered to them, then ask them to forward it to you.

[Fayrazzled]

I'd recommend if you are using blackout lining to make the curtains and the linings separately and then hook them together at the curtain hook stage. Does that make sense? It makes handling the thicker blackout lining easier and gives a better drape. It also makes it easier to launder the curtains should you so wish. You will need narrower heading tape for the linings.

Curtains are not difficult to make yourself: just check your measurements, re-check and check again before you cut anything.