DIY curtain weights

To avoid curling and deformation of curtains, use a special weighting material for curtains. The device also performs other functions. Some curtains are equipped with a weight directly when sewing at the factory. But if the canvas does not have such additional elements, then you can install them yourself.

Curtains and curtains that curl at the edges often cannot be straightened by ironing and steaming.

The solution to the problem is curtain weights.

Sewing process

The production of tulle should begin by aligning its end sections, which will subsequently become its side seams. This should be done if, during cutting, the fabric was cut (or even torn) unevenly.

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If the structure of the fabric allows it (veil, gauze), you can pull out one thread next to the cut and cut off the uneven edge along the trace left from it.

In cases where pulling the thread is impossible (organza), the fabric should be placed on the floor or table, using chalk and a long ruler, draw an even side cut line and align the curtain along it.

The weighting along the bottom edge of the curtain will interfere with processing the side seams. Therefore, you should very carefully remove the tail of the textile cord with beads from the overlock stitch and trim it to the width of the side seam allowance plus 1 cm.

Expert opinion

Romanova Ksenia Petrovna

Interior design expert and fabric store manager

So, if the finished side seam should have a width of 2 cm, the width of its seam allowance will be 4 cm. Then the weighting material must be cut to 5 cm.

After this, the overlock stitch needs to be carefully straightened so that the weighting material “goes” inside.

Then you should prepare the side seams of the tulle for processing - first you need to iron them 4 cm to the wrong side, and then turn them inward one more time (2 cm) and iron them again. To prevent the side seams from warping during the stitching process, they can be pinned in some places.

Next you need to stitch along the side seams of the tulle. The treated side seams should be pulled back, secured with pins on the ironing surface in a slightly taut state, ironed and left to cool completely. Treated in this way, the side seams will turn out perfectly smooth and will not “bounce” or bulge.

Then you should process the top edge of the tulle.

Up from the weighting material, you need to measure the height of the finished tulle (this method is suitable for curtains hanging on ceiling cornices 1 cm thick). After this, from this control mark you need to set aside 2 more widths of the curtain tape plus 2 cm.

So, if the ribbon has a width of 5 cm, then a total of 12 cm will need to be set aside. It is at this mark that the excess height of the tulle must be trimmed.

The straightened cut should be ironed on the wrong side, first 12 cm, and then, turning 6 cm inward, ironed again. To make it more convenient to iron the edge of the tulle, as well as to sew the curtain tape, you can use pins that will securely fasten all layers of fabric together.

Then you should stitch the curtain tape. It should be placed 1 cm from the top edge of the tulle.

The end sections of the braid at the beginning and end of the stitching should be turned inward by 1.5-2 cm. The holding threads from one edge should be brought out to the wrong side and tied in a knot.

Otherwise they will pop out when the tulle is pulled together. The first line should be laid 2 mm from the top edge of the curtain tape.

Then, using pins, you need to secure the lower edge of the braid. This will prevent the tulle from twisting and shrinking relative to the braid.

The second line along the curtain tape should be laid at a distance of 2 mm from its bottom edge. From the other edge, the holding threads should be brought to the front side of the braid. You will need to pull on them to gather the tulle into folds.

The treated tulle should be pulled to the width of the cornice. The holding threads must be tied in a knot, their ends wound like a ball, tied with tails of the threads and tucked between the tulle and the curtain braid.

When the need arises (for example, for washing or ironing), the threads can always be untied and unraveled.

How to hem tulle mesh on the sides?

To properly hem the tulle on the sides, measure 1-2 cm along the entire height of the sides. You can make marks or pull the thread at this distance from the edge. Having folded the edges, the fabric should be laid on a hard, free surface with the folds down and gently ironed with a non-hot iron.

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Peculiarities

No matter how heavy the curtain may seem, it is still easily moved by the air flow. That’s why special weights are needed in many ways to help hold the canvas in place. Weighting elements vary in thickness and weight. There is only one selection rule: the higher the density of the curtain fabric, the heavier the part used should be.

It can be used for:

Roman curtains;
Japanese curtains;
roller blinds;
Hungarian curtains;
heavy curtains.

Thanks to the increased load, it is ensured:

maintaining the required shape;
accelerated straightening of folded fabric;
always attractive appearance.

Which is better: with or without weighting?

Straighteners have slightly different functions compared to weights. The airiness and lightness of the fabric, capable of flying into the air with every slight movement of air, will bring a lot of trouble. Straightening the drapery structure after each opening of a window or door is not the most pleasant experience.

No weights needed

Weights will help return any complex drapery to its original position. Without straighteners and additional devices to weigh down the fabric, you can use curtains in dark rooms without air movement and the possibility of disturbing the design of the drapery.

Possible modifications

There are weights in the form of tape or oblong weights. There are also options with a cord and based on round elements with holes.

All types differ in their specific area of application. But the desired loads are not always included in the delivery of curtains.

When making an additional purchase, difficulties may be associated with an inflated price or even a complete lack of goods on sale.

Weighting parts can be made by hand. The simplest of them are sewn into the lower edges of curtains. Cords are also used when sewing light curtains and tulle. A good replacement for them are steel chains or pieces of thin wire. Rail-type weights are inserted into the folded edges of the curtains.

You need to sew on the slats:

manually;
on a sewing machine (using a zigzag seam);
on an overlocker.

A simple fold of the bottom edge of the curtain and pulling the chain through in the case of opaque material looks pretty good. But this option is not suitable when the curtain is made of transparent fabric. Then weighting them with their own canvas comes to the rescue. The technique is very simple: fold the edge from below twice by 100 mm.

The following can also be used to replace the tape:

wooden slats;
thin steel tubes;
metal pins.

Weighting agents in the form of cord and tape

These curtain weights are sewn into the bottom edge. The cord is used when sewing tulle and light curtains.

Instead, you can use an ordinary chain or pieces of wire.

The weighting strip is inserted into the folded edge of the curtain.

They are sewn on by hand, with an overlocker or a machine zigzag stitch.

If you simply bend the bottom edge of the curtain and pull the chain inside, then this method looks more aesthetically pleasing, but it is not suitable for transparent fabrics.

The fabric of the curtains themselves can be used as a weighting agent. To do this, the bottom edge is folded 10 cm 2 times.

Instead of tape, wooden slats, thin metal tubes or pins are often used as load. Most often they are used when sewing curtains with your own hands.

The slats are purchased at a hardware store or made from a block. You can cut an old cornice into pins, disassemble a metal shelf for hats, etc.

If a wooden plank or slatt is chosen for the load, then the indentation for hemming the bottom pocket is equal to the width of the slatting plus 2-3 cm. If there is a metal pin, then the machine stitch should be 0.5 cm from it.

External weight for weighting

Instead of filling the inside of the curtain with various elements, you can hang a load from the outside. Then weights with various holes, as well as weights, are used.

From available means, such products can be easily replaced with unnecessary worn-out coins. Serially supplied weights are mainly made either round (that’s when holes are needed) or elongated conical parts.

Most often, such designs are sewn into spreads from the sides.

Review of weights and straighteners for curtains

Curtain weights are accessories that are used to make curtains heavier. The need to make the fabric heavier occurs in 2 cases: either it is too light, or the product itself requires a perfectly even shape. Different fabrics use distinctive weighting agents.

Among the main varieties of this fittings are:

They come in several modifications, have different weights and do not look the same. Each is used for a specific purpose, so not every method can be used on every fabric.

Additional Information

Expert opinion

Romanova Ksenia Petrovna

Interior design expert and fabric store manager

Placing them inside cuffs and seams allows you to hide weights from prying eyes. Therefore, the choice of a suitable device is strictly individual.

Almost anything you can pick up will do. Curtains are mainly complemented with plates and cords.

Since these elements have an external part, it is very important that they complete the composition and bring it to perfection.

When it is planned to maintain the geometry of the curtain only at the corners, a special kind of plate is used. Most often, the delivery kit already includes mounting brackets. Such devices help fix the weighting material in the bottom hem.

For Roman blinds, weighting agents are selected in the form of:

Particular attention should be paid to the selection of weights mounted on bath curtains. In this case, only a steel chain is suitable; occasionally it is replaced with rods and small balls. Another option is several magnets. This solution is optimal for a steel or cast iron bathtub. If it is made of other materials, it will not fit well.

How to hem tulle with weighting is described in the video below.

Tulle nylon

The difference between nylon tulle and others.
Decor options made from nylon tulle. Day, night and decorative curtains made of nylon tulle. Many buyers often find it difficult to choose tulle because they do not know the characteristics of the fabric, its properties and many other questions accumulate due to the huge selection of curtain fabrics.

I will try to explain in simple language the difference between nylon tulle and other fabrics.

The history of nylon

Nylon thread was created in 1938 in Germany. It was a real breakthrough in the fashion and interior industry.

The thread is made from the processing of minerals such as coal and oil and is ultimately called polyamide thread.

(Further…)

Characteristics and purpose of using weighting materials

Even heavy curtains are not stable and are easily moved by the wind. To fix the curtains in one place, special weights are provided. Such devices have different weights, thicknesses, and modifications.

A special weighting device ensures the much-desired evenness of the lines.

Important! When choosing a weighting agent, you need to rely on the density of the fabric. The higher it is, the greater the mass of the element used should be.

Which curtain models need additional load.

Roman. Curtains have a mechanism that lifts the fabric and rolls it onto the curtain rod. The design is additionally equipped with a wooden or plastic slats.
Japanese. These are fabric sheets that are weighted with metal, wood or plastic slats. They are secured with glue.
Curtains in the bathroom. Small magnets or plastic parts are used as weights to prevent deformation of the waterproof fabric.
Tulle. Lightweight sheer fabric can only be finished with lace.
Heavy curtains. Here it is recommended to use metal balls and cylinders.

You can make a weighting agent from available items (ribbon, cord, metal parts, slats are suitable).

In each specific case, the choice of weighting material is determined by the properties of the fabric.

The weighting material allows you to maintain the necessary shape of the curtains and prevents the curtains from deforming. In addition, this detail helps to quickly straighten the curtains. Thanks to a small load, the tulle will always look neat.

Cord and ribbon are used if the main material of the curtains is tulle, organza or other light fabrics.

Veil or organza?

Often, when we come to the store, we wonder what is needed more, a veil or organza for tulle and lambrequin? What's better? Which is more reliable? Let's discuss everything here.

In order to understand what to choose, you need to consider the main characteristics, similarities and differences between these two lightweight and irreplaceable tulle fabrics. One of the unifying properties of the veil and organza is the fact that after several centuries in a row, these fabrics are imported to our country. The main producers are the countries of Türkiye and China, less often - European countries.

Types of weights

Some curtains are sold immediately with weighting. Typically, such a detail takes the form of a small dense strip of fabric at the end of the curtains. If such an element is not provided, then over time the tulle may curl and bend. To prevent this process, it is recommended to sew the weight yourself.

It should be noted that the cords and weights are especially convenient, which can be easily removed before washing or cleaning the curtains.

cords;
chain;
plates;
wooden slats and planks;
steel tube;
metal pins;
wires;
weights.

When making a weighting agent for tulle, you can make a load-creating structure from a ready-made cord or tape, use a piece of wire or a regular chain.

For light curtains and tulle, it is better to choose a cord. This element should be sewn to the bottom of the curtains. The cord is almost invisible, so it is actively used to weigh down transparent fabrics. The parts vary in weight and thickness.

The optimal size is selected depending on the density of the curtains.

You can purchase ready-made metal weights. The market offers devices weighing from 10 to 150 grams. They are round, cylindrical, flat. The weight can be sewn into a special pocket or secured to the outside of the curtains.

Ready-made weights for curtains can be purchased in several versions, choosing the appropriate weight.

If the curtains begin to change shape at the corners, then you need to use plates. They differ in shape and weight, and are easily attached to the canvas. Planks are often used to secure the sides to create the correct angle.

The plate can be easily removed if you need to wash the curtains or transport them.

You can make the plate yourself from thick cardboard or a piece of plastic.

If you don’t have the desire or means to purchase ready-made factory weights, you can make curtain weights with your own hands. You will need to prepare the wire and secure it at the bottom of the curtains, after tucking the fabric. For Roman curtains, it is allowed to use a lace or chain.

An alternative to a cord or tape can be DIY weights made from lath.

Curtain tape, cords and slats can be sewn on either by hand or using a sewing machine.

Dense and heavy blades are equipped with steel balls, cylinders or plastics. You can take coins and other compact metal products from available materials to weigh down curtains.

Cords and plates as weights

Elements in the form of plates and cords are installed on the lower border of the canvas and ideally take the shape of the curtain.

Cords are great for use on light and thin fabrics. In the store you can find these parts weighing from 15 to 150 g. Thanks to such a large spread, it is easy to choose a cord that optimally fits a curtain made of any material.

Sometimes only the corners of the curtain change shape.

In this case, special plates will help save the material from deformation. They usually come with mounting buttons, with the help of which the weighting material can be easily fixed in the hem of the fabric. They also vary in weight so they can fit almost any curtain.

If you want to make your own weighting, you can use thin metal pins from an old shelf or wooden slats, which are sold at hardware stores.

However, when hemming the bottom of the curtain, in this case you will have to make an additional indent. If you use a wooden strip, the indentation should be equal to its width plus 2.5 cm. If there is a metal pin, machine stitching should be done 0.5 cm from it.

Weighting agents in the form of weights

Weights that are sold in specialized departments can be of two types: an elongated conical shape and a round shape with holes. They are designed for fastening in the side folds of curtains. If hems are not provided, the weights are sewn on using a special tape.

In the old days, weights were replaced with coins. This can be done when decorating modern curtains.

Instead of coins, other round or flat metal objects are also suitable. They will not be visible to outsiders, so anything can be used as cargo. However, before fastening, it is advisable to cover metal objects with fabric.

Loads have weight restrictions that must be taken into account when using different types of fabric.

For light materials and tulle, you can use weights weighing from 12 to 22 g. For medium-density fabrics, such as linen, weights weighing 23-50 g are optimal. For curtains made of heavy materials - from 51 g.

Methods for attaching weights

If you wish, you can sew your own curtains with additional weights. A load, fabric to match the color of the curtains, a sewing machine, threads, and scissors are prepared in advance. Measurements are taken with a measuring tape or tape measure. The method of attaching coins or wire depends on the weight of the web.

The sequence of internal fastening of the weighting material to the lightweight fabric:

If the curtain is light in weight, it is recommended to sew the strips on the sides. It is enough to take 2 parts weighing no more than 22 grams.
Each element must be placed in a fabric pocket, which is sewn separately.
A small cut should be made on the back side of the bottom hem of the curtain, keeping an interval of 5 cm from the bottom. If the material is not tucked, then it is allowed to use curtain tape.
A pocket with a weighting agent is inserted into the resulting cut and sewn to the curtain.

To insert the parts, preliminary preparation of the bottom edge or side of the curtain is required.

When the curtain is made of dense, heavy material, the weight needs to be sewn in in a different way. On the reverse side at the bottom there are several pockets into which coins or metal balls are inserted. The folded bottom of the curtain can serve as a place for placing the parts.

Curtain tape is sewn to cover the holes. It is important to secure the weights so that they do not fall out when the curtain is in an upside-down position. To fix a wire or chain, you first need to fold the fabric 10 cm and stitch it. A weighting agent is threaded into the resulting hole.

To prevent the load from shifting, the side edges of the hem are sewn up.

It is not necessary to sew a special pocket to fix the curtains in one position. Frequently, loads are attached to the outside of the curtains.

In this case, weights for curtains or products with holes are used. From scrap materials, old coins will come in handy.

The bottom of massive curtains is decorated with fringe or pendants, but such a detail is appropriate in classic or retro-style interiors.

Another weighting option in the form of a special fringe sheet attached to the bottom is suitable for massive heavy curtains.

The weighting material on organza curtains does not need to be placed in a special pocket. Here a special cord is used to match the curtains and is sewn on the back side of the fabric. It is prohibited to use chains and slats for curtains made of organza.

Expert opinion

Romanova Ksenia Petrovna

Interior design expert and fabric store manager

To sew weighting to organza, the material chosen for balancing is sewn directly to the bottom edge without forming a pocket.

Weights-cargoes

This type of curtain weight is made using fabric, curtain tape, a needle and thread of the appropriate color, scissors and small metal parts (small furniture fittings, coins or heavy but small buttons are suitable). Before sewing in, the weights are covered with fabric. To sew on the details, preliminary preparation of the bottom edge or side of the curtain is required.

Weights-cargoes

You can correctly determine the weight of such a weighting agent based on the following figures:

Tulle and light materials - use weights weighing 12-22 grams; Medium-density fabric, including linen - weights, all of which do not exceed 50 grams; Heavy materials (for example, velvet, satin) - weights weighing more than 51 grams.

Recommendations for processing tulle

Classic tulle weights are not used, since the material is translucent and the weight will always be visible. To straighten the lower part and fix transparent curtains, the use of strips, chains, metal products, etc. is not required.

Sew a weighting cord to the organza, matching it to the color of the curtain.

How to sew weights on tulle, step-by-step instructions:

The bottom needs to be folded twice by 10 cm;
Then the resulting hem is ironed;
Then the folded part is stitched manually or on a machine.

Chains and slats are not applicable in this case.

Using plates

Plates, sometimes called slats, are sometimes used not only to add weight to the bottom edge of the canvas, but also to maintain beautiful angles. The slats can be mounted not only in the bottom section of the fabric, they can even be sewn into the sides. Thanks to this, the curtain will be perfectly even in shape, even on the sides.

The straightener for Japanese curtains is made in the slatted format, since the fabric panels should not have a single fold during their operation.

Usually, along with the plates, all the necessary elements are sold so that they can be fixed to the curtain. Attaching the plate to the fabric yourself is not difficult if the material has been processed correctly.

The main mistakes in the process of selecting and sewing weights

The main mistakes when choosing weights for curtains lie in incorrectly selected elements. For light fabrics (chiffon, organza, tulle), it is recommended to use lace. Weighting of roller and Japanese curtains is carried out using plates, slats, and slats. For heavy curtains, coins, oval and round weights are used.

You can sew curtain weights not along the entire length of the bottom edge, but only on the sides.

The main mistakes when choosing and sewing weights:

incorrectly selected load for the material used;
using an element that is too heavy or light;
the hem is too large or small (when choosing the optimal size of the folded fabric, you need to start from the width of the plate, adding a few centimeters in reserve);
the use of a noticeable plate for transparent fabric, which spoils the appearance of the curtains (for tulle, you only need to use a lace or make a hem);
the use of metal or wooden products for curtains in the bathroom (steel and wood quickly deteriorate in conditions of high humidity and constant temperature fluctuations, so it is better to use plastic strips).

If there is no flap on the side, you can secure the loads using curtain tape.

For wooden planks, the space for hemming the bottom pocket should be measured taking into account the height of the plank and a few centimeters added to it.

You can purchase a special factory weighting agent or use improvised materials. The main thing is to choose the right load for the material and model of the curtain. Additional details are placed in fabric hems or sewn pockets.

The bottom of the curtain is rolled up and secured with a weighting element.

Weights

You can sew a weighting material for curtains of this type yourself in the following ways:

Parts of a suitable size are selected, sewn into pieces of fabric and separately sewn on the wrong side of the drapes or curtains at strictly equal intervals. The fabric for wrapping the cargo is not divided into pieces, but is left in the form of a single strip of folded material, which is stitched to form pockets. Weights are placed in the recesses, after which the strip is sewn to the wrong side of the curtain. The folded edge of the curtains is used as places for pockets (this option is suitable if the curtain is of sufficient length).

You can sew a curtain weight along the entire length of the bottom edge, but only on the sides.

The improvised parts that replace finished products must be voluminous and at the same time sufficiently small. First, such weights are sheathed with fabric, after which they are inserted into a small incision made on the side of the hem (at a height of at least 5 cm from the edge). If there is no flap on the side, you can secure the loads using curtain tape.

Sew on the weighting material

In conclusion, I would like to note another original weighting option used for light, weightless fabrics. We are talking about volumetric embroidery, which includes various decorative elements. True, creating a weighting agent will require excellent artistic taste and great patience, so it is better to purchase such options ready-made.

If the bottom or side edges of the curtains are folded, this will significantly spoil their appearance. Curtain weights will help get rid of this problem without resorting to constant and often useless ironing and steaming.

Special weights are used when sewing Japanese, Roman, Hungarian curtains, as well as curtains made of heavy fabrics. What are the types of weights? Can they be made at home?

How to make curtain weights with your own hands?

It doesn't look good on curtains when their edges are curled. And you shouldn’t waste time deciding to straighten them with steam, because it will be wasted. Special curtain weights can be good helpers in this situation.

The weighting cord is threaded through the hem or sewn along the bottom of the curtain.

Metal weights find their use in making Japanese, Roman, roller and Hungarian curtains with your own hands. They are also used for sewing heavy curtains.

Using weights, it is possible to achieve additional load, which makes it possible to hold and maintain the desired shape of the curtain, quickly straighten wrinkled areas and present the main product in an attractive light.

Existing types of weighting agents:

ribbon;
cord;
round shape with slots;
oblong weights.

Elongated weights are attached to the corners of the curtains.

A particular variety is responsible for its function. There are often situations when it is impossible to find on sale exactly the type of cargo that is needed: either they are too expensive, or they were not included when the curtains were supplied.

How to get out of such a predicament? Of course, make your own curtain weights. How to do it? Very simple.

To make weights for curtains, you will need to prepare the following:

textile;
curtain tape;
a needle (for hand sewing) or a sewing machine;
threads in the color of the fabric;
tape measure;
scissors;
small metal parts (you can see something from furniture fittings).

How to sew weights on yourself?

There are situations when it is difficult to find the required type of cargo or there is not enough money to purchase it. What to do in this case? Having prepared the necessary materials and armed with step-by-step instructions, it’s easy to make weighted curtains with your own hands.

To work you will need:

curtain; material to match the color of the curtain; weighting agent: wire, wooden slats, chain, metal balls or coins; iron; sewing machine; pins; thread to match the color of the curtain; scissors; measuring tape or tape measure.

Prepare an improvised weighting device.

If you need it for tulle or a light curtain, use thin wire. For curtains made of denser fabric, a weighting agent in the form of a chain or several coins is suitable. You can attach these items to the curtain in different ways.

Method 1

In a curtain made of lightweight material, the weighting material must be sewn into the sides.

To do this, take 2 flat or three-dimensional metal parts. The weight of each should not exceed 22 grams. Sew a small fabric pocket for each, thus disguising the weighting agent. On the wrong side of the bottom hem of the curtain, make a small cut on the side, 5 cm from the bottom. If there is no bottom hem, use a special curtain tape. Carefully insert pocket with a load into the resulting hole and sew.

Method 2

Weights for curtains made of thick fabrics can be placed in “pockets”. Take regular coins as weights. Sew small “pockets” on the underside of the bottom edge of the curtain. Place a coin in each. Close the pockets by sewing curtain tape over them. Sew the fabric so that the weights remain in place even if the curtain is upside down.

If the curtain fabric is transparent, the previous methods will not work, since the weighting material will always show through.

You can straighten the bottom of such a curtain without additional details. To do this, its lower part should be folded twice by 10 cm, ironed and stitched by hand or on a sewing machine. If the fabric is opaque and dense, for a better effect when processing the bottom edge you need to insert a chain or piece of wire.

Weights are necessary parts that provide additional load on the bottom or side edge of the curtain.

They allow you to hold and maintain the desired shape of the curtain, as well as straighten folds. You can order the insertion of a suitable weight from a specialist or do it yourself. This part does not have to be purchased in a store: if you use your imagination, you can use a variety of available materials as a weighting agent.

Special weights are used when sewing Japanese, Roman, Hungarian curtains, as well as curtains made of heavy fabrics. What are the types of weights? Can they be made at home?

Options for attaching the load to the curtain fabric

There are several options for how you can attach the load to the curtain fabric:

By folding the bottom of the curtain and securing it with ribbons, you will get an interesting version of the weighting material.

1 way. You can, after taking the necessary measurements, wrap each piece with a cut piece of fabric and sew it in it.

In the same way, sheathe all the weighting elements. Naturally, for greater evenness of the canvas, a larger number of such weights will be required.

Then each element is sewn individually on the wrong side of the product (the one that will be turned towards the window) from its lower edge at equal intervals.

Method 2. With this method, the fabric is not cut into pieces, but is left whole.

Expert opinion

Romanova Ksenia Petrovna

Interior design expert and fabric store manager

So-called “pockets” are sewn on a single strip (from a double layer of material). They can be made in one row, or you can make several rows with them.

After that, the pieces are put into the finished pockets and the strip is sewn to the bottom edge of the curtain from the inside out. The main thing is to ensure that the weights do not fall out, but remain in place after attaching the flap to the curtains.

3 way. Here, the place for pockets for liners is the hem on the curtain fabric itself. Why, when measuring, increase the length of the curtains by the width of the load and add another 2-3 centimeters.

4 way. Various combinations of the above fastening options.

What are the possible options for creating weighting materials from improvised materials? Let's consider them further.

Sewing curtains – 9

Tanya63 I always look at how the fabric is wrapped around the weighting material. Where it turns inward, there seems to be a reverse side. On some veils, the weighting material is visible on the reverse side...

In veils and micro-veils, I myself focus on whether this white weight rope is visible or not, I sew on the side where it is not visible, maybe, of course, I’m wrong...

...but in this case, the fabric itself seems to say that the shiny side is the front side, but at the same time the weighting agent is visible at the bottom.... In the end, I agreed with the customer which side she needed... I’ll sew it on the shiny one... but for the future, of course, I’d like to figure it out....

, I sew on the side where it is not visible,

Me too. But if there are such doubts about the face and the back, I unravel the edges a little and look in which direction the fabric is wrapped

Don’t worry, this happens and it’s not your fault, it’s the weighting that’s sewn unevenly, I’ve seen this happen—a factory defect.

Thanks for support! I immediately thought about marriage; there was no other explanation. But that doesn't make it any easier. Now I just won’t sew anything for them, by the way, this lady’s sister is my regular client, and at her request she did the sewing. For some reason I was always inferior to her in price, like this time, it seems like we are not in close contact. And even though she says that she feels uncomfortable in front of me, that here is her out-of-town sister with such demands on tailoring, she still sticks to her side, although neither she nor I can see what is hung and looks like. Well, nothing, this is a lesson, both in sewing and in human relations.

And these ones also burned the tulle! Fortunately, not in the middle, the iron was probably overheated. Damn, moral damage on all sides!

Girls! I always cut off the weights. I cut the edge at the top, sew on the curtain tape, and then trim the bottom as needed. I have been convinced more than once that even on very expensive fabric. The weighting material is sewn crookedly, with gaps and gaps. And somehow the bottom of the curtains with this weighting material does not puff up very nicely. How many times have I seen such a picture in curtain salons?

Paulina, for sure, then there wouldn’t be such a problem. Here the girls have said more than once that it is better to cut it off. But here you can’t win over the people - if the weighting agent means it’s beautiful, you’d think that’s the only reason they take the fabric. It's a province. Next time I will insist on cutting it off.

We don’t always cut at the salon. It’s just that the owner seems confident in the quality of the fabric. I measure from bottom to top in the center of the fabric. I stick the needle in and pull the thread in both directions. I can pull the thread in any fabric, be it veil or organza.

This is what they teach in the “Curtain Master” courses.

blonde@, what do you do if the tulle is embroidered? They often bring this, your advice will come in handy.

Girls, I come to you for help. You need to sew a lambrequin, as in the photo.

The fabric is like crepe-satin...shiny on one side and quite dense...so sewing in two layers - one on top of another - will look a bit heavy. If two fabrics are joined with a braid...will the bow fold then hang evenly...without warping? Or is it better not to risk it...to put one on the other...anyone sewed with a joint?

Irina, I tried to take a closer look at the photo, it seems that there are just two colors sewn together and the joint is processed with bias tape... and then it will be more functional... otherwise the lambrequin will turn out to be too heavy... maybe the cornice will withstand it, but only how then wash and iron?...

if you cut it correctly, there will be no distortions....

+Irina+ I sewed such a lambrequin, but like you I was afraid of distortion when joining and sewed from two layers - it turned out a bit heavy of course - but I can’t decide on the joining - maybe someone actually sewed - share your experience

Really - this is the situation you have, in principle, for each of us - dressmakers, sooner or later such situations happen - we work with people - there’s no escape... and you come across such fabrics - don’t worry, mom

I recently had one like this - it’s good that the footage is 4 meters - I measured it from the weighting agent every 50 cm - the difference is 4 cm - not only the sides but also in the middle

but I still don’t understand these customers of yours - okay, 6 cm - of course it’s noticeable - but are they 1-2 - lying on the floor looking at the curtain? 1-2 cm imperceptibly - these are the people who have already been caught...

These are such different people, but we take everything to heart...

Source

Cord, tape and wire as weighting for curtains

The weighting agent in a roller blind can be a plastic or wooden strip.

Weights of this kind are sewn along the bottom edge of the curtains. Cord is most often used when sewing light and thin fabrics. For example, tulle. Instead, an ordinary chain or piece of wire will do.

They are sewn on manually or by machine. In the second case, they are processed with an overlocker or a machine zigzag seam is performed.

The method of simply folding the bottom edge of the curtain and threading a chain through it is more aesthetically pleasing. However, this option is unacceptable for translucent materials.

The fabric of the curtain itself also makes the product heavier. Why the bottom or side of the canvas is folded twice by 10 cm.

Wooden slats, thin pins or metal tubes often act like a load instead of a tape. Often they are planned to be attached when making curtains yourself.

In this case, slats are purchased at a building materials store or made from bars. A used cornice cut into pieces, a disassembled metal shelf from the hallway, and other objects can be used as a pin.

When the load is a slatted or wooden plank, the space for hemming the bottom pocket is left equal to the height of the plank and a couple more centimeters. For a metal pin, machine stitching is laid half a centimeter from it.

Cords and plates as weights

Elements in the form of plates and cords are installed on the lower border of the canvas and ideally take the shape of the curtain.

Sometimes only the corners of the curtain change shape.

If you want to make your own weighting, you can use thin metal pins from an old shelf or wooden slats, which are sold at hardware stores.

Weighting agents in the form of weights

In the old days, weights were replaced with coins. This can be done when decorating modern curtains.

Loads have weight restrictions that must be taken into account when using different types of fabric.

Round and conical weights for metal curtains

One option to make the curtain heavier is to sew fringe along the bottom.

The shape of metal weights can be round with holes or elongated conical shapes. In most situations, weights with this kind of shape are sewn into the folds on the sides.

Coins can serve as weighting agents for round shapes. It was they who served as a load for the curtains in the old days.

Conical weights can be metal balls or other small but voluminous parts in the form of a cylinder, as well as flat elements. It is more advisable to disguise them with material and then carefully attach them to the side seam of the curtain.

To do this, a small incision is made in the hem on the side from the wrong side, retreating 5 or 6 cm from the bottom border.

If there is no flap on the side, the load is attached using a special curtain tape.

The use of weights does not play an independent decorative role; their presence is secondary in relation to the main product. Therefore, such devices are often hidden from prying eyes.

And what kind of item can be selected as a weighting agent can only be suggested by the rich imagination and fantasy of its manufacturer.

How to sew weights on yourself?

To work you will need:

Prepare an improvised weighting device.

Method 1

In a curtain made of lightweight material, the weighting material must be sewn into the sides.

Method 2

If the curtain fabric is transparent, the previous methods will not work, since the weighting material will always show through.

Weights are necessary parts that provide additional load on the bottom or side edge of the curtain.

Sometimes the edges of the curtains curl, which spoils their appearance. In such cases, trying to steam iron them is a waste of time. To correct the situation, weights are used - special metal weights.

Weighting tapes can be of different thicknesses and weights; the denser the curtain fabric, the more weight is needed.

They are also used for load when sewing Roman, roller, Japanese and Hungarian curtains, and are often used for heavy curtains. The additional load allows them to keep the desired shape, expand faster from the folded state and always look attractive.

There are several types of weights:

tape; in the form of a cord; round with holes; elongated weights.

Each type has its own purpose. But it happens that the necessary goods are not on sale, are too expensive or were not included in the finished set of curtains. What can replace them?

Weight mounting options

In this case, if you strive to ensure that the curtains always have a neat and attractive appearance, you can fasten the weights in three different ways, namely:

First of all, you will need to take the necessary measurements. After which, you can wrap each metal part in a small piece of fabric. To ensure that the curtains straighten evenly, it is necessary to use a sufficient number of metal parts wrapped in fabric. The parts should be placed evenly from below on the canvases. Each weight is sewn separately to the wrong side of the curtain.
The second method does not involve cutting the fabric into equal pieces. Here you will need a single strip of fabric of appropriate sizes. The strip must be folded in half and appropriate pockets must be made into which metal parts will be placed.

You can make either one row of weights or several, it all depends on what kind of load you want to hang on the curtains. The finished strip is sewn to the curtain from the reverse side. It is worth paying special attention so that the weights do not fall out after the strip is sewn onto the curtains.

The third method is suitable for those who do not strive for excessive hassle and the use of additional fabric. In this case, an additional strip is created by folding the edge of the curtain and evenly distributing pockets for metal parts. The method is quite simple, but it will require attentiveness and accuracy from you, since in this case, all work is done with the curtain fabric, and not with a separate piece of fabric.

In addition to the three above methods for creating special weights for curtains with your own hands, there is a combined method. It all depends on your decision which methods to combine to achieve the best result.

Tulle. New products in natural fabrics

The pursuit of the absence of artificial components in products, building materials and other decorative surfaces leads to the fact that one of the main preferences in fabrics is not only visual perception, but also tactile sensations caused by the fabrics produced.

Interior fabrics from European manufacturers have gone far ahead in this matter, each collection of fabrics of which can be called a masterpiece akin to the paintings of great artists. The combination of simplicity, naturalness, and at the same time, richness of colors with the relief structure of fabrics will delight owners of interiors in minimalist, Japanese, urban and other modern styles.

(Further…)

We sew ready-made weighting materials: ribbons, slats and cords

Curtain tape, cords and slats can be sewn either manually or using a sewing machine (overlock and zigzag modes). Using tape, the bottom of the curtain is rolled up and secured with a weighting element.

You can sew a weighting cord for curtains or its analogue in the form of a slats in the following way:

Fold the bottom edge of the curtain. For wooden strips, the space for hemming the bottom pocket should be measured taking into account the height of the strip and a few centimeters added to it. Iron the sides of the curtain to the wrong side, fix the hem line on the side with pins and sew on a machine. Thread the selected material into the formed pocket.

To sew weighting to organza, the material chosen for balancing is sewn directly to the bottom edge without forming a pocket. Therefore, it is better to sew a weighting cord to the organza, matching it to the color of the curtain. Chains and slats are not applicable in this case.

Another weighting option in the form of a special fringe sheet attached to the bottom is suitable for massive heavy curtains. This solution will look especially appropriate in interiors decorated in a classic or retro style.

If you want to sew on a weighting material, saving your own time and money as much as possible, you can balance the curtains by folding the bottom of the fabric twice to a height of about 10 cm.

Weighting material manufacturing

If there is no weighting material in the set with elements for decorating curtains, then it is not difficult to make it yourself.

To do this you will need the following items:

In order to place the weight, it must be attached to the main part of the curtain.

This can be done using one of the available methods:

The weighting material is covered with fabric of a suitable color and texture and is placed in a small pocket made in the curtain.
A place for the weight is cut out in the curtain itself, then a weighting material covered with fabric is placed there and this part needs to be carefully sewn up.
The element is placed in the hem of the curtain. To do this, when measuring the main fabric, you should add an additional 5 cm to the length of the future curtain.
You can combine several methods, creating the optimal arrangement of weights, based on the style of the curtain and the texture of the fabric.

Cords, ribbons, and slats are in most cases placed at the bottom of the curtain. It is important to use cords if you plan to make light, airy curtains, and slats are used when it comes to making Roman blinds with your own hands. You can use any thin wire, but it must be placed so that it does not damage the fabric. If you plan to process the curtain using a sewing machine, then it is best to choose a zigzag seam for sewing on such weights.

If you choose the method of placing the load in the hem of the curtain, the result will be aesthetic. You can use this option with different types and styles of curtains.

This method cannot be used for translucent fabrics. Curtain fabric is also used as a weighting agent - for this purpose, use a corner or bottom of the curtain folded 2-3 times.

Slats and other thin elements made of wood or metal are sometimes used instead of tape. In order to make a pin with your own hands, you can use an old cornice. If this type of weighting material is used, then the space for hemming the bottom pocket should be equal to the height of the placket. For hemming you need to add another 2-3 cm.

Round and/or oblong metal weights are also often used to give curtains an aesthetic appearance. Regular fringe is also used for this purpose. It not only decorates the curtain, but also fixes the fabric in the position chosen by the needlewoman. For elongated weights, the best place is considered to be the side parts of the curtain.

Ordinary coins can also become round-shaped weights. Conical weights can be metal balls and other volumetric cylindrical elements, as well as flat parts. They are best placed on the side, covered with plain fabric. To do this, you need to make a small cut in the side hem on the wrong side, about 5 cm away from the bottom of the curtain. If there is no special flap on the side of the curtain, then the load is secured with tape.

It is important to remember that the weights themselves must have certain weight indicators. The material from which they are made is also taken into account. For lightweight fabric materials and tulle, the load weight should be in the range of 13-23 g. If a medium-density fabric is used, the weight of the weight increases to 50 g, the same figure is optimal for heavy fabrics and curtains.

Thus, the main role of weights is to create and maintain the shape of curtains. Secondary tasks for this element are decorating the product. That is why the weights are made hidden from view or attached as carefully as possible to the main fabric. What type of weighting material will be used, how to place it on the curtains, what material to use to decorate this fittings - the answers to these questions will be given by the imagination of the needlewoman. You can combine several elements in one work if it is appropriate. Any interior will be transformed if the window opening looks well-groomed and neat.

How to make a weighting agent: use cords or ribbons

When making a weighting agent for tulle, you can make a load-creating structure from a ready-made cord or tape, use a piece of wire or a regular chain. A weighting cord for curtains, inserted along the lower border of the fabric, allows you to give the curtains an ideal shape without overloading them at all. Ready-made weights for curtains in the form of a cord can be purchased in several versions, choosing the appropriate weight (from 15 to 150 grams).

If deformations are present only in the area of the corners, a weighting agent for curtains, which has the form of a plate fixed in the hem of the fabric, is suitable. You can purchase ready-made products, choosing the appropriate weight option, or make the plate yourself from thick cardboard or a piece of plastic (if the curtain is made of thick material).

An alternative to a cord or tape can be homemade weights made from a lath purchased from a hardware store or made from a block. This is exactly the option used for Japanese curtains (you can choose plastic, metal or wooden slats attached to the curtain by inserting into pockets on the canvas or gluing).

Using weights

Weights can be different in shape: they can be cylindrical, round, curly, and so on. Some of them are made in the format of mini plates with holes for easy sewing to the curtain. What such a load looks like is shown in the photo below.

The curtain, to which a weight is attached in the corner, maintains an even rectangular shape, and its edges cannot bend. Moreover, the beautiful and sometimes even designer shapes of pendants allow them to be used even as decoration, and thus hide their intended purpose.

Like any other weight, the suspension has its own purpose - to support the fabric panel in a certain position. For example, these kinds of pendants are used to weigh down French curtains. This allows the curtains to keep a more even and smooth shape. For French curtains, weights of various design shapes are used so that they not only fulfill their intended role, but also decorate the finished interior detail.

This is what the “Amphora” weight looks like for a French or Austrian (modified version of the French) curtain:

As can be seen from the information described in this article, the issue of giving window curtains a perfectly even shape is not problematic. Depending on the type of curtain, an appropriate straightener or weighting agent is selected, which, if properly attached and used, will perform its functions

You should choose such accessories based on the specific type of curtain, as well as paying attention to the material that was used to sew this curtain. The lighter the fabric, the lighter the weighting material should be chosen and vice versa

All the fittings that are needed to attach any type of weighting material are sold in the same stores as the curtains and the straighteners themselves. Before purchasing such accessories, you need to measure the width of the fabric and, if possible, weigh it. Having data on the area and weight of the curtains helps you choose the right straightener that will perform its functions.

What do Japanese curtains look like?

Japanese curtains are long, smooth fabric sheets, fastened by a cornice mechanism into a single structure and performing the function of sliding panels. They are attached to the cornice using Velcro. Weights are sewn at the bottom so that each strip hangs strictly vertically and does not go in waves.

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