Drape Curtains Like a Pro - Our Step-by-Step Guide

There's nothing quite like the look of beautifully draped curtains framing a window. The cascading folds of fabric add an air of elegance while still allowing light to filter into the room. But achieving that perfectly styled drape can seem intimidating if you've never done it before.

In this tutorial, we'll walk you through the process of DIYing professional-looking scarf drapes for your curtains. With just a few simple materials and our clear instructions, you'll be able to completely transform your windows. Trust us, even total beginners can master this project!

Gather Your Materials

Before getting started on the actual drapery process, you'll need to make sure you have the necessary supplies. Here's what you'll need:

• Curtain panels - These will be the main curtains you are draping.
• Curtain rod - Should already be installed over the window.
• Fabric marker - For marking stitching lines.
• Pins - To temporarily hold pleats in place.
• Iron - For crisping up the scarf folds before hanging.
• Sheer curtain (optional) - Light filter placed behind main drapes.
• Curtain weights (optional) - Prevent movement and swaying.

Prep the Panels

To start, lay your curtain panels out on the floor with the back (wrong) side facing down. Arrange them horizontally so that the top corners meet together in the middle. This aligns the edges perfectly so the front side panels meet to create that lovely cascading effect.

Next, use your fabric marker to make a small vertical stitching line on the inner side of each panel, about 1 inch from the edge where the corners join. Later, you'll use these lines as guides for perfectly pinning your drapes.

Pin the Panels Together

Now comes the fun part - pinning the panels together to form the drapes!

Simply pull the upper edges of the panels up so that the front sides meet at the marked stitching lines. The goal is to create a clean central point where the panels will be joined. As you're pulling the fabric into place, insert pins along the stitching marks to hold everything together.

Pinning along the vertical lines ensures the meeting point of the drapes will hang correctly. Take your time here and make sure the panels don't skew off course. The precision of your pins means the precision of your eventual drapes!

Iron the Folds

Once your drapes are perfectly pinned, it's time to iron them into shape. This critical step gives the folds of the scarf their signature crisp, cascading appearance.

Carefully iron along the pinned seams, pressing the folded fabric with your iron. Apply a medium heat setting to avoid damaging the material. Make sure no creases remain in the folds!

When you're satisfied with the look, allow the drapes to fully cool before removing the pins. The heat from the ironing helps set the shape of the scarf drapes.

Hang the Curtain Rod

Before actually hanging your curtains, you'll need a rod installed above the window. Use a tension rod or follow the included hardware instructions to properly mount your drapery rod.

Place the rod several inches above the window frame to allow sufficient clearance for the drapes. Make sure it feels sturdy and level when mounted.

Put Up the Curtains

Now for the fun part - it's finally time to hang your curtains! If you're using a sheer backing, place this curtain over the rod first so it hangs behind the main drapes.

Next, lift your freshly pressed main curtains onto the rod, one panel at a time. Center them over the window, allowing the pinned drapes to cascade downwards. Make sure you have even lengths of fabric on either side.

Gently adjust the side drapes, pulling down to form crescent shapes. You want the curves to look full but not over exaggerated. Take a step back and make sure everything looks balanced from the front.

Secure the Curtains

The final step is fastening the curtains to hold your gorgeous new drapes in place. Simply take one end, pull it over the outside of the rod bracket and knot it through itself.

Create the knot by looping the end through and pulling it back on itself tightly. Do the same for the opposite end. The knots act as anchors, keeping the weight of thewindow treatments from pulling off the brackets.

Add Weights for Stability (Optional)

For an extra professional touch, you may want to attach curtain weights to your drapes. This helps them hang straight and prevents the fabric from blowing around.

Weights can be purchased or you can easily make your own by sewing some coins inside the bottom hem. Clips can also be used to attach weights securely.

Space the weights evenly across the width of the panels. Try not to overload the curtains or they may sag under the extra weight.

Include Tiebacks for a Finished Look (Optional)

Tiebacks add a decorative element while also helping to control the curtain drapes. Hooks are attached at each outer edge of the window and the curtain is tied back with cording.

Look for tiebacks that work with your style - options range from simple cords to fancy tassels. Make sure to space the tiebacks evenly so your drapes stack in a uniform way.

Add a Valance for Extra Style (Optional)

For a truly polished window treatment, a pretty valance can take your drapes to the next level. This ruffled or tailored pelmet hangs across the top of the curtains.

Valances not only look beautiful but serve functional purposes too. They help frame the window, block light gaps, and hide the hardware.

Match the fabric pattern and color to your drapes or use it as an opportunity to layer in contrasting textures. Hang the valance so it overlaps the tops of your main curtains.

Consider a Liner for Light Filtering (Optional)

Sheer curtain liners are a great way to provide full light filtering from your drapes. The lightweight fabric hangs behind your main curtains to further block incoming light.

Liners soften the silhouettes of drapes for a more tailored look. They also protect your drapes from sun damage and fading. Look for liners made of gauzy cotton, linen or lace.

Troubleshooting Common Curtain Issues

Even with the best planning, curtain mishaps can happen. Here are some quick fixes for common drapery problems:

• Twisted panels - Straighten fabric and re-center on rod.
• Uneven draping - Adjust side lengths, re-position weights.
• Sagging rod - Tighten mounting brackets or switch to stronger hardware.
• Curtain sway - Add more weights or adjust tiebacks to secure.

You did it - your windows are now framed by gorgeous, flowing drapes! Following this simple tutorial, you can easily DIY professional-looking curtain drapes.

Scarf drapes lend an air of polished elegance, while still allowing light through. Properly weighting and tying back the panels keeps everything neat and tidy. And optional valances and liners take the look to stylish new heights.

Every time you draw back your beautiful new drapes, you can proudly say "I did that!" Let us know if you have any other decorating questions - we're here to help you master all your DIY dreams.