Welcome Fall with new curtains

Fabric from Joann home decor-approx $30 a yard

Fall is all about redecorating!  This valance style curtain is simple to make and hangs on a regular curtain rod.  To make this curtain measure your window length and width, either inside the frame or outside depending on what look you want.  Add at least 1 inch for seams on top of the width and at least 3 inches to the length for your rod to go through (using a 1 inch rod, so you'll need more if you are using a larger rod) Cut out fabric and lining.  If you plan to not use lining add 2 inches to the window width for a seam allowance.

Picture Back with curtain rod allowance

For curtains with a lining-read here-
Pin together and sew 3 of the four sides leaving the top open, right side to right side. (for those unfamiliar with this term, right side is the side that will be viewed such as the outside of a dress or shirt.  The wrong side is the side that will be hidden by lining).  Once that is completed turn fabric right side out (side that will be viewed), iron flat making sure to lightly roll the top material towards the back so that when it is top stitched the lining will not be easily be seen from the front.  Pin to hold and top stitch the 3 sides.

For curtains without a lining read here-

Iron seams for 3 sides (not the top)  double fold 1/2 seams  so you have a neat edge.  Top sew the three edges.

Finished pleats

Measure you allowance for your curtain rod, you should measure 2 1/2 inches from the top and fold down towards lining and iron.  Tuck the end about 1/2 inch for the completed edge on the back.  Iron and pin in place.  Top sew seam on the backside of the curtain..  The curtain back should look like the picture above. For the bottom pleats-accordion fold the ends for the desired look hand sew in place.  And you done!
 Happy redecorating!