Here's what you'll need to get started: *50 feet of 1/4-inch- to 3/8-inch-diameter cotton clothesline. This is available at big box chains and hardware stores—just make sure it seems soft enoughfor a needle to pierce. * Several strips of 1/2-inch- to 3/4-inch-wide fabric, cut selvage to selvage. You'll find that the thinner strips are actually [...]

How to Sew a Continental or Cornice Rod Casing with a Heading 1) Measure window after rod has been installed to determine total length. Add 151/2′ (39.3 cm): 5/12′ (14 cm) for the casing and seam allowance, 8″ (20.5 cm) for the double-fold hem, and 2″ (5 cm) for I” (2.5 cm) heading. For a [...]

How to Sew a Casing with a Heading 1) Determine casing depth by loosely pinning a curtain fabric strip around the rod. Remove rod and measure the distance from the top of the strip to the pin. Add 1/2″ (1.3 cm) to be turned under. 2) Press under 1/2″ (1.3 cm) along upper cut edge [...]

A casing or rod pocket is the hem along the upper edge of the curtain or valance. The curtain rod is inserted through the casing so that the fullness of the curtain falls into soft gathers. Before cutting the curtains, decide on the casing style. A simple casing places the curtain rod at the uppermost [...]

The Basics Home decorator sewing requires the same basic equipment as dressmaker sewing, with the addition of tools for measuring windows and furniture. Using the proper equipment makes the work easier and the results more satisfying. 1) Needle threader eases threading of hand and machine needles. 2) Pins with plastic or glass heads are easier [...]