The cool thing about tier curtains is they are super easy to make and can be used on virtually any window that will fit a standard tension rod.

The hallmarks of a classic tier curtain are 1) an upper rod pocket, which is stitched-in below the top hem and creates a gathered effect along the top of the curtain when pulled back; 2) the fact they are split down the middle – two identical panels left and right; and 3) if done in red gingham, you must immediately open an Italian café.

Sewing Tools You Need

• Any Sewing Machine (we recommend the Janome Jem Platinum 760)
  

Fabric and Other Supplies

• Fabric (for curtain) in size to fit window
  Hint: When deciding how much fabric is necessary, double the lengthwise measurement of the window, and add 12 inches.
  
• Ribbon in coordinating or contrasting color to curtain fabric
  
• All purpose thread in colors to match fabric and ribbon
• O-rings for tie backs

Getting Started

1. Measure your windows using our Guide for Measuring Curtains.
2. Trim fabric to fit window horizontally, leaving 6" for seams. Cut two curtain panels. Note: Be sure to cut fabric 1½ to 2 times wider than your window to allow for sufficient fullness in the curtain.
3. Trim fabric to fit window lengthwise, leaving 6" for seams.

At Your Sewing Machine

Curtains

1. Make a small simple hem along each side of each panel.
2. Create top hem of curtains. Fold fabric under 1" and press. Turn under an additional 4" and press. Create hem by stitching close to the fold.
   
3. Create sleeve for curtain rod. Stitch a second line 2" up from the hem seam to create a casing for the curtain rod. Note: Depending on the width of the rod you have chosen, you may increase or decrease the size of the casing.
   
4. Create bottom hem of curtains. Fold fabric under, wrong sides together, 1" and press. Turn under an additional 2" and press. Create hem by stitching close to the fold. See Diagram below. Note: You may hang the curtains to pin them in order to ensure that the length is consistent and they fall to a length that suits you.
   
   
5. Create side hems. Fold fabric under 1" and press. Turn under an additional 2" and press. Create hem by stitching close to the fold.

Tie Backs

1. Cut ribbon lengths to 18".
2. Fold ends under 1/8" and press. Turn under another 1/8" and press. Stitch on fold. See Diagram below.
   
3. If you would like the ends of your tie-backs to be diagonal, fold to diagonal position and stitch down. See Diagram below.
   
4. Hand stitch O-rings to the center of the tie back.

Other machines suitable for this project include the Singer 8780 Curvy and the Juki HZL-E61.