I am excited to share that my newest class on Craftsy.com launched on October 28, 2014! Sewing Custom Curtains and Draperies was so much fun to film and it's a topic that I love to teach. Curtains and draperies are the mainstay of the custom workroom, and can be intimidating for people new to sewing window treatments. In this class I show step-by-step how to make a basic drapery panel which is then used to create three styles; grommet top, gathered and pleated. I talk about design and proportions, fabrics and linings, how to match pattern motifs and how to measure, cut, sew and install your finished curtains.
You may be curious whether I changed my usual workroom techniques for a DIY audience. The answer is "no". The methods I show are exactly the way I have made curtains and draperies in my own workroom for the past 25 years. Many of the techniques are already familiar to the home sewer, such as cutting, seaming and hand stitching. If you do own a workroom, or would like to sew professionally, I hope this class will give you tips and techniques that will help you to sew and sell with confidence.
Many people are hesitant to attempt making window treatments like curtains and draperies because they are BIG! Yes, the size makes it difficult to cut and measure if you don't have a professional worktable, but here is something I have learned; worktables are never big enough! Even the pro's have to "pin and drag" and double-measure to get the job done. Curtains and draperies also require a large amount of fabric which can be quite an investment. A good reason to view this class before you purchase fabrics is to avoid costly mistakes. I think sewing curtains and draperies can be a very rewarding project, and I hope you do too! You can see the class preview here: view preview video
When you purchase a class on Craftsy.com it is yours to keep forever, and watch as many times as you like. You can stop, rewind and ask questions. I am there to help you with challenges, and cheer your accomplishments. It is such an interactive and fun way to learn. I invite you to preview the class using the link at the bottom of the page. Here are a few reviews from students:
"Susan is a fantastic teacher, very clear and concise presentation with lots of information, and covers every type of curtains you want to make. She is a true professional and knows her subject. I have over 40 Craftsy classes and I think this class is best and most informative of them all and I have given it five stars. I would recommend you buy this class, you won't regret it. Would like to see Susan do more classes, perhaps tie backs and pelmets". -posted by Craftsy member SewBad
"I am a beginner at sewing and wanted to start making some of my home decor items, instead of paying for them. I decided to give Craftsy a try and I was not disappointed. This class was great. Susan's method of teaching removed all of the intimidation that a beginner would feel. I started with making a sample curtain, using scrap fabric, and the results were amazing. I would recommend this class to anyone wanting to make their own curtains". -Posted by Craftsy member monhow5342614
"This class is well-organized and very informative. The teacher's instructions are quite clear, and she quickly answered a question I posted. I am extremely pleased that I purchased this class. Thank you, Craftsy"!! -Posted by Craftsy member driggsbygardner
I hope to see you in class!
Best Wishes,
Susan AKA Home Dec Gal