How to Make Blackout Window Treatments

Blackout curtains are window treatments that are used to limit, if not completely block, the amount of light that enters a room. Blackout curtains are great for people who have to sleep during the day or are sensitive to light. They are also used in rooms with home theaters to get the best picture quality. These are not only functional window treatments but very stylish. They can also help minimize the noise from outside as well as aid in insulating the inside of the home from the heat and cold. You can buy black window treatments but with a little time and sewing know-how you can make your own and this article will show you how.

Step 1 - Size of the Curtains

Before you can make the blackout window treatments you need to know how large they have to be. Use the measuring tape and get the length of the curtain rod. Measure the rod from end to where you want the panel to end. The fabric will have to be this length plus 6 1/2 inches to allow for the seams. If you plan to have the blackout curtain come above the curtain rod then add another 1/2 inch to the top height of the curtain when you measure from the placement of the rod to the floor. You will also have to measure the thickness of the curtain rod and then multiply that 2 1/2 plus 1 inch for each of the seams. Add another 2 1/4 inches for each hem on the sides. If you are making two panels then calculate a total of 10 inches for the side hems.

Step 2 - Sewing the Main Curtains

If you are using one large sheet of fabric, trim it to the size that you need and hem the seams as described in Step 1. If you are using two panels, repeat the same instructions a second time.

Step 3 - Create the Blackout Lining

Measure the finished curtain panels and subtract 5 inches from that measurement to get the length for the lining. Do the same thing with the width. Cut the blackout lining fabric to match those numbers. Create a 1-inch hem on the top and bottom of the lining fabric.

Step 4 - Assembling the Blackout Curtains

Place both fabrics on a flat surface. Lay the lining on top of the curtain fabric and make sure that the top, bottom and both sides are even with each other. Use the pins to tack the pieces together. Start at the top right edge of the fabric and sew until you reach the lining but stop just before you would sew it then stitch at the top and stop just before the hem on the lining. Fold the seam of the curtain over the blackout lining and sew them together with a 1/2 inch seam across the top of the curtain. Repeat for the bottom and both sides until the heavy curtain fabric overlaps the lining fabric. Hang and enjoy the curtains.