Adding length to your curtains can dramatically transform a room, enhancing its style and overall aesthetic. Whether you've bought curtains a little too short or want to achieve a specific floor-length look, extending their length is a manageable DIY project. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of different methods, ensuring you achieve professional results.
Assessing Your Curtains and Choosing the Right Method
Before you start, carefully examine your curtains. Consider the following factors:
- Fabric Type: Lightweight fabrics like sheer voile are easier to work with than heavy, structured fabrics like velvet or brocade. The method you choose will depend heavily on the fabric's weight and texture.
- Heading Style: The type of heading (e.g., pencil pleat, eyelet, rod pocket) will influence how you add length and the tools required.
- Desired Length: How much length do you need to add? A small adjustment is easier than significantly lengthening the curtains.
- Existing Hem: Does your curtain already have a hem? If so, how wide is it? This existing hem might offer enough fabric to let down.
Methods for Adding Length to Curtains
Here are several proven methods for lengthening your curtains, catering to different skill levels and fabric types:
1. Letting Down the Existing Hem
This is the simplest method, ideal if your curtains have a generous hem and you only need a small increase in length.
- Inspect the Hem: Carefully examine the existing hem. Measure its width to determine how much extra length you can gain.
- Unpick the Hem: Gently unpick the stitching holding the hem in place. Use a seam ripper to avoid damaging the fabric.
- Press the Hem: Once unpicked, press the hem flat to remove any wrinkles or creases.
- Re-Hem: Hem the curtains again at your desired length. You can use a simple hand-stitched hem or a machine-stitched hem depending on your preference and sewing skills.
2. Adding a Fabric Strip
This method is suitable for larger length increases and allows for creative fabric choices.
- Measure and Cut: Measure the amount of length you need to add to each curtain panel. Cut fabric strips of the same length and width as your desired extension, ensuring you choose a fabric that complements or matches your existing curtains.
- Prepare the Edges: Finish the raw edges of the fabric strips to prevent fraying. You can use pinking shears, a zigzag stitch on a sewing machine, or bias binding.
- Attach the Strip: Carefully stitch the fabric strip to the bottom hem of your curtains using a sewing machine or by hand. Ensure the seam is even and neatly finished.
- Hem the Bottom: Hem the bottom edge of the newly attached strip to complete the lengthening process.
3. Using a Fabric Appliqué
Adding a decorative fabric appliqué to the bottom edge is a stylish alternative to simply adding plain fabric. This method not only adds length but also adds a touch of personality and design.
- Choose a Design: Select a fabric appliqué that complements your curtains' style and color scheme.
- Attach the Appliqué: Securely attach the appliqué to the bottom hem of your curtains, ensuring a neat and professional finish. You can hand-sew or use a sewing machine depending on the appliqué type and your sewing skills.
- Hem: Hem the bottom edge of the appliqué to ensure a clean finish.
4. Professional Alterations
If you are uncomfortable with sewing or have particularly intricate curtains, consider seeking professional alterations. A tailor or seamstress can provide expert adjustments, ensuring a perfect fit and professional finish.
Tips for Success
- Pre-wash your fabric: To prevent shrinkage after lengthening, pre-wash your fabric (especially the added strip) before starting the project.
- Press your seams: Pressing the seams flat helps create a neat and professional finish.
- Use matching thread: Using thread that matches your fabric ensures a seamless appearance.
- Test on a scrap: Before starting on your curtains, test any sewing techniques on a scrap piece of the same fabric. This helps avoid mistakes on your finished product.
By carefully considering your curtains' characteristics and choosing the right method, you can successfully add length to your curtains and enjoy a more refined and stylish living space. Remember to take your time and follow the instructions meticulously for optimal results.
