I have seriously agonized over these curtains for weeks. I just couldn't figure out how I wanted to finish the top. Originally I thought I would do a simple casing, because it is quick and easy. However, I don’t really like the bunchy look a casing gives, so I momentarily decided on grommets. But those pesky grommets are EXPENSIVE. Next I thought of doing tabs, and I mulled that over in my head for a couple of days, but tabs are such a pain to make.
Then I finally got smart and decided on BACK tab curtains. They aren't bunchy like a casing, or expensive like grommets, and they don't have to be perfect like front tab curtains. Most importantly, they are EASY.
Then I finally got smart and decided on BACK tab curtains. They aren't bunchy like a casing, or expensive like grommets, and they don't have to be perfect like front tab curtains. Most importantly, they are EASY.
The fabric is actually clearance tablecloths from Target, cut in half. The pattern is a little different from my normal style, but I figured it's good to branch out a bit, so I went I for it.
How to make back tab curtains:
1.Hem all edges of curtains.
2. Cut a 4 inch-wide strip of scrap fabric (I used an old sheet). This will be for all of your tabs, so how long it is will depend on the number and length of tabs you need (see steps 6-8 for calculation).
3. Fold the fabric in half, matching raw edges, and sew a straight seam all the way down.
4. Now either turn your "tube" right side out. I like to use a dowel or a knitting needle. OR if you are feeling lazy, leave the raw edge showing. This is the beauty of back tab curtains, no one sees them.
5. If you turned your "tube" right side out, I would suggest doing a quick iron, just because it think it makes things a bit easier.
6. Cut your tube into 4-5 inch long tabs.
7. Now you can either tuck in the raw edges to the inside of the tab (If you do this make your tab 5-6 inches long), or leave the edges raw.
8. Pin tabs across the top of your curtains. Spacing 3-4 inches. (The first time I tried this I did 6 inches, it looked terrible, trust me, no more than 4 inches). You can play around with this a bit, it all depends on how wide your curtains are.
9. Sew a continuous straight stitch across the top of the tabs. Repeat with the bottom.
10. Voila! Complete! Now wasn't that simple?
that is genius! i never would have thought of this. grommets are by far my favorite but i've never wanted to attempt them on my own. i just bought curtain clips at target, even though the curtains had a rod pocket, just to avoid that bunching. anyway, your curtains are lovely--good work!
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