Q&A for How to Hem Curtains

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How do you hem light fabric?

Donna Serino
Alterations Specialist
Donna Serino is a Dry Cleaning and Alterations Specialist and the Marketing Director for Hallak Cleaners, based in Manhattan, New York and Hackensack, New Jersey. She has expertise in tailoring and alterations, couture and casual wear, designer handbag cleaning, and suede, leather, and furs care. Donna and Hallak Cleaners are part of the National Cleaner’s Association, Drycleaning and Laundry Institute, and Leading Cleaners Internationale.

Donna Serino

Alterations Specialist

Expert Answer

Add weights! They can be sewn into your wide hem, and will help the fabric drape well.

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Question

What size hem is in a valance?

Community Answer

A valance usually has a rolled hem, which is 1/4 inch doubled back, with a seam on top.

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Question

Can I take up blackout curtains with hemming tape?

T. Chinsen

Top Answerer

Blackout fabric is heavier than most curtain fabric. You may need to use extra-wide tape or do a double width of hemming tape. Enough heat needs to be applied for the tape to adhere to the thick fabric.

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Question

I'm installing a curtain. I do not want it to go to the floor, just to cover the window ledge. How far below a window should the curtain hang?

Community Answer

Hang the washed curtains to see how they fall when installed. The material might change slightly after washing. Keeping the window height in mind, hold the curtain gently against the window ledge. Don't pull them but instead allow the natural fall to stay as is. Now add 4 to 6 inches to it to leave some extra length float about, and then add two or three inches extra to go in the double folds at the hem. If you like broader folds, leave as much extra, twice, for doubling the fold to prevent fraying and for a thicker look. If you mess up, you can always add a frilly layer at the hem which anyways enhance the flow and look of the curtains along with adding length to it.

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