How to Hem Curtains Without Sewing

Hemming curtains is a common home improvement task that can be done with or without a sewing machine. If you don’t have a sewing machine, or if you’re simply looking for a quicker and easier way to hem your curtains, there are a few different methods you can use.

Method 1: Hemming Tape

Hemming tape is a fusible adhesive tape that can be used to bond fabric together without sewing. It’s available at most fabric stores and comes in a variety of widths to accommodate different types of fabric.

To hem custom curtains with hemming tape, follow these steps:

1. Wash and iron your curtains to remove any wrinkles.
2. Lay the curtains flat on a work surface.
3. Measure the desired length of your curtains and mark it with a pencil.
4. Fold the bottom of the curtains up to the desired length and pin it in place.
5. Cut a strip of hemming tape that is the same width as the fold and long enough to span the width of the curtain.
6. Place the hemming tape on the wrong side of the curtain, directly above the fold.
7. Pin the hemming tape in place.
8. Set your iron to the appropriate setting for the fabric of your curtains.
9. Iron over the hemming tape, pressing down firmly for 10-15 seconds.
10. Allow the hemming tape to cool completely before removing the pins.

Method 2: Iron-On Hem Tape

Iron-on hem tape is similar to hemming tape, but it is activated by heat rather than pressure. This makes it a good option for hemming delicate fabrics that can’t be ironed on a high setting.

To hem curtains with iron-on hem tape, follow these steps:

1. Wash and iron your curtains to remove any wrinkles.
2. Lay the curtains flat on a work surface.
3. Measure the desired length of your curtains and mark it with a pencil.
4. Fold the bottom of the curtains up to the desired length and pin it in place.
5. Cut a strip of iron-on hem tape that is the same width as the fold and long enough to span the width of the curtain.
6. Peel the backing off of the iron-on hem tape.
7. Place the iron-on hem tape on the wrong side of the curtain, directly above the fold.
8. Iron over the iron-on hem tape, pressing down firmly for 10-15 seconds.
9. Allow the iron-on hem tape to cool completely before removing the pins.

Method 3: No-Sew Hem

If you don’t have any hemming tape on hand, you can still hem your curtains without sewing. This method is more time-consuming than using hemming tape, but it’s a good option if you’re in a pinch.

To hem curtains without sewing, follow these steps:

1. Wash and iron your curtains to remove any wrinkles.
2. Lay the curtains flat on a work surface.
3. Measure the desired length of your curtains and mark it with a pencil.
4. Fold the bottom of the curtains up to the desired length and pin it in place.
5. Fold the hem down again, this time folding the fabric over the pins.
6. Use needle and thread to sew the hem in place. Be sure to use thread that matches the color of your curtains.

Tips for Hemming Curtains

Here are a few tips for hemming curtains:

• Be sure to wash and iron your curtains before hemming them. This will help to remove any wrinkles and make it easier to get a straight hem.
• Use a yardstick or other straightedge to mark the desired length of your curtains. This will help to ensure that your hem is straight.
• Pin the hem in place before sewing it or ironing it down. This will help to keep the hem from shifting.
• If you’re using hemming tape, be sure to follow the instructions on the package carefully. Different types of hemming tape have different application instructions.
• If you’re sewing the hem in place, use a backstitch to secure the thread. This will help to prevent the hem from coming undone.

Conclusion

Hemming curtains is a simple task that can be done with or without a sewing machine. If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to hem your curtains, try using hemming tape or iron-on hem tape. If you don’t have any hemming tape on hand, you can still hem your curtains without sewing by using a needle and thread.