DIY tab top curtains! Use this free easy step by step tutorial to make your own tab top curtains!
Preparation
54" wide home decorator fabric cut to desired length of curtain panel + 12" per panel (so for my curtains, I bought two 3 yard panels to make two 84" long panels, with some scraps leftover)
Matching thread and notions
Sewing Machine
Iron
Cutting mat, rotary cutter and ruler
Please read through the entire plan and all comments before beginning this project. It is also advisable to review the Getting Started Section. Take all necessary precautions to build safely and smartly. Work on a clean level surface, free of imperfections or debris. Always use straight boards. Check for square after each step. Always predrill holes before attaching with screws. Use glue with finish nails for a stronger hold. Wipe excess glue off bare wood for stained projects, as dried glue will not take stain. Be safe, have fun, and ask for help if you need it. Good luck!
Instructions
Step 1

Step 2

Now take the four inch strips and fold in half, right sides together, and stitch along raw edge with 1/4" inseams as shown in diagram. Inside outside the strips so you are left with a tube.
Step 3

Lay the tubes flat, seam up centered on the tube and press flat. Keep the seam centered on the tube as shown in the diagram.
Step 4

Cut the pressed tubes into 6" long strips and set aside. These will be your tabs. You will need a minimum of 7 tabs per panel.
Step 5

Step 6

For the bottom hems, fold up 1/2" and press. Then fold up another 2" and press and pin. Stitch along folded edge as shown in diagram.
Step 7

For the top edge, start by folding the top edge seam over 1/2" and pressing. Then fold over another 4" and press and pin. Then line your tabs up, evenly spaced, and tuck under the folded edge (at least 3/4" under) and pine tabs in place. Stitch as shown in diagram with 1/4" seams to both secure tabs in place and finish top edge of panel.
Step 8

Finally fold the tabs upward, folding the top edge of the tabs under. Press and pin so top folded edges of tabs are even with top of panels. Press. Stitch along top edge with 1/4" seams.
Step 9
Some tips in closing ... if you are making multiple panels, make sure the lengths match up exactly. Check to make sure you prints are cut in the same direction, or make sure you cut sew your panels so the pattern runs in the same direction. Best luck!
It is always recommended to apply a test coat on a hidden area or scrap piece to ensure color evenness and adhesion. Use primer or wood conditioner as needed.
We apologize if there was an error in this plan. Please help us out and report any errors here.
Comments
Guest (not verified)
Tue, 09/27/2011 - 11:52
GIVEAWAY
Love the West Elm curtains! They would look great in my living room.
I'm going to try to make your curtains for my bedroom.
Thanks
Daryl (not verified)
Tue, 09/27/2011 - 11:53
GIVEAWAY
I'll take 'em!
Jennifer Maselli (not verified)
Tue, 09/27/2011 - 11:55
Giveaway
Would love the West Elm curtains! What is the fabric that you made the tab top drapes from?
Sara (not verified)
Tue, 09/27/2011 - 11:57
GIVEAWAY
These are so cute! Love curtains, wish I had more time to make them!
Brandi Trevino (not verified)
Tue, 09/27/2011 - 11:57
Giveaway
Would love them!
lizgrant (not verified)
Tue, 09/27/2011 - 11:59
Thanks for posting the
Thanks for posting the curtain instructions! Pre-made West Elm curtains are pretty great, too.
Guest (not verified)
Tue, 09/27/2011 - 12:00
Giveaway
Your curtains would look awsome in my bedroom! Just bought a new a house. Can't wait for it to start feeling like home.
Michelle M. (not verified)
Tue, 09/27/2011 - 12:02
Giveaway
These WEST ELM curtains would be so great in my apartment!
Diana Libs (not verified)
Tue, 09/27/2011 - 12:02
GIVEAWAY
These would rock my bedroom!
April Tottle (not verified)
Tue, 09/27/2011 - 12:03
GIVEAWAY
I need those West Elm Curtains bad! Just have metal blinds up right now.