How To Make Cafe Curtains

Cafe curtains dont just belong in a cafe. They are a terrific addition to any kitchen and a great way to bring out a little atmosphere. And even with minimal sewing experience you can make your own by following these step by step instructions.

They are a very economical method of screening the lower portion of the window so that privacy can be maintained. Its designed for the kitchen but looks great in many other rooms as well.

Decorative poles, rods, or curtain wires are a great way to hang your cafe curtains. They are recessed in the window at the half way point.

If you want a layered look you can create a valance panel out of the same material. If you want total privacy just make the valance long enough so that the entire window is covered.

You can use several different fabrics for your project. Sheers, lace, or any light weight fabric will fork great. You want a fullness ratio around 2 times. This means if t measure 3 feet across you will want 6 feet of material to get the ruffle ratio you want.

The rod is slotted through the casing to gather the curtain and its positioned about 1 inch down from the top creating a frill edge.

To get started youll need your fabric, matching thread, and your curtain wire or rod. To determine roughly how much fabric youll need:

1. Place your rod or wire in the correct position and attach.
2. Now measure the width and then multiply by 2 for your fullness ration.
3. Then calculate the length by measuring from the top of your rod to the bottom of the window sill and then add 6 inches for hem allowances.
4. Multiply the length by the width to determine how much material you need. If you are using a pattern you will need to have more material.

Here is how to make your cafe curtain with a cased heading:

1. Cut your fabric to the required size.
2. Turn in a double inch hem down both sides and then pin.
3. Turn up a double 1 inch hem at the bottom and pin.
4. Miter the bottom corners and then stitch both the bottom hem and side hems.
5. Turn down 1 inch along the top edge and press the fold using your iron.
6. Turn down 2 inches along the top edge and pin. This is what will create your ruffle top.
7. Stitch the top hem in place at the bottom fold.
8. Create another row of stitches across the width 1 inch down from the top fold. It can be adjusted to accommodate your rod.
9. Thread the rod through the casing between the two rows you stitched.
10. Gather evenly on the rod.
11. Hang your curtains.
12. Adjust the ruffles.

Its that simple. In less than an hour you can be enjoying new cafe curtains in your kitchen.

Joanne is an author of Decorz.com. If you're looking for more curtain & drapes ideas for your home visit http://www.decorz.com.