How to Make Roll Up Blinds and Curtains

 

Roll-up blinds and curtains are a stylish and functional window treatment option. Making your own allows custom sizing and fabric selection at a fraction of the cost of buying pre-made. Follow these steps to sew easy DIY roll-up blinds and curtains:

 

Choose Appropriate Fabrics

Select fabrics suited for roll-up styles. Lightweight cotton and linens work well for curtains. Look for tightly woven, opaque fabrics so the sunlight doesn't show through. For roll-up shades, consider faux wood blind material or vinyl that mimics real wood blinds.

 

Measure and Cut Fabric

Decide if you want an inside or outside mount. Inside mounts fit within the window frame while outside mounts extend beyond it. Measure accordingly. Cut fabric to the proper length and double the width. Add 4-6 extra inches on the ends for hems and heading.

 

Create the Header

Fold over the top edge 1⁄4 inch and press. Fold over again 4 inches and sew this heading channel. Make sure it is level and straight. Insert a rigid curtain rod, rope or wood dowel through the heading channel.

 

Hem the Sides

Measure and mark 1⁄4 inch on each vertical edge. Fold the fabric in at marks and press. Sew hems in place along both sides for clean edges. For curtains wider than 54 inches, also hem center front edges.

 

Attach Weights

To weigh down roll-up shades, hand-sew fabric flap weights or insert a chain weight through a hem sewn at the bottom edge. For curtains, sew on weights or heavy beads in evenly spaced rows along the bottom.

 

Install Brackets

Mark where to place mounting brackets evenly spaced at the top. Center on the window. Use screw anchors for drywall and self-tapping screws for metal studs. Follow manufacturer instructions.

 

Attach Rollers and Lift Cord

Snap cordless lift rollers onto the rail or rod ends. Or insert the lift cord through rings on roller ends and mount it with a cord tension device at one end. Run the lift cord through rings on the back of the roll up.

 

Mount Shade or Curtain

Fit the rod, rail, or dowel into the brackets. For roll-up shades, attach the back fabric panel with adhesive Velcro strips to the front. Pull the cord or chain to raise and lower.

 

With some simple tools and materials, you can inexpensively make customized roll-up window treatments. Follow measurements precisely for the best fit. Adding weights will keep the blinds and curtains hanging straight and smooth.