Draperies or over curtains are made of medium weight or heavy fabrics. They may be unlined, lined or lined and interlined, depending on the fabric and its treatment—whether formal or informal.
There are three accepted lengths for draperies—to the window sill—to the bottom of the window apron—or to the floor. Floor length is most generally used, and for very formal treatments, the drapery is often made long enough to crush on the floor. Draperies hang straight from the rod to the floor. If they meet at the top center, they may be draped to either side and held with ornamental tie-backs or those made of the same material.
When the type and design of draperies have been decided upon and the right type of rods have been mounted, then measurements for draperies can be taken.
Measure from the top of the rod down for length desired. Then add to length measurement the allowance for top and bottom hems. Review chapter on “Fabrics” before cutting lengths for draperies.
Unlined Draperies
These draperies are informal in treatment and are usually made of light or medium weight fabrics. Most any type of top finish, shirring or pleats is suitable. A plain valance or cornice board may be used. For a pleated heading, allow 5½″ at the top for heading and 5½″ at the bottom for a 2½″ double hem. Cut strips of crinoline or lawn for stiffening 4″ wide and 3″ shorter than the width of each drapery length. Pin strip to underside of heading ½″ from the top, starting 1½″ from the edge. Stitch along lower edge of strip, then turn top edge of fabric over stiffening ½″ and stitch. Turn top hem to underside along edge of stiffening. Press and pin in place.
Side hems may be put in by hand, machine stitched or blind stitched. For hand stitching or straight machine stitching, turn edge ½″ to underside; then turn 1″ for hem. Pin hem in place for stitching.
To blind-stitch hem, using the Zigzag Sewing Machine or the Zigzag Attachment, pin hem in place; then run a row of hand basting ¼″ from turned edge. With wrong side of drapery up, turn hem under to right side, exposing the ¼″ edge. Turn 2½″ double hem at the bottom and finish by hand or machine stitch.
