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Tab top curtains

I'm going to make tab top curtains for the first time. I need suggestion on the length of the tab (please specify if this length is after you fold the tab into half or before) and spacing between tabs. The curtains are lined with block out fabric and are 7ft tall. So they are quite bulky. The curtain and tab are the same design but contrasting color.

Given these details how long should the tab be and how far apart. I'm going to make the tabs tomorrow so I hope I'll get some suggestions.

Thanks.

Reply to
janesire
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Hi,

Length of the tabs depends on two things: thickness of the rod from which they will hang, and how much space you'd like between the rod and the top of the curtains. Quite a few variations are illustrated on this page:

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directions on this page:
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to cut your tab strips 12 inches long. The illustration makes it appear that the rod is hung quite some distance from the top of the window, and the actual curtain begins not much about the window frame. My preference would be for shorter tabs (less 'empty' space), but that's something you need to decide according to what you like.I would attach the tabs fairly close together, 4 or so apart maybe, since your curtain panels are tall and bulky. I'd also interface the top hem so that the folds would be less likely to droop between tabs. However, I've never made full-length tab curtains so I hope someone with more experience will offer advice. Good luck!

Doreen in Alabama

Reply to
Doreen

I'd say the tabs should be the size that (a) at LEAST fits your curtain pole - remember to leave some slack - in terms of length and looks good, (b) looks good in terms of width - I'd suggest 3 - 4 inches wide (finished). Whatever you think looks best is good, as long as the curtain pole fits them.

Now, if you are using block out fabric to block light into the room, then, I'd suggest you go with a plain top finish - tabs will let *lots* of light in........ If you're using it for some other reason - then please ignore my comment.

HTH

Sarah (with TWO black out blinds PLUS black out curtains in DD's room in an effort to cut out all light... and it still isn't perfect!)

Reply to
Sarah Dale

The length of the tab will depend entirely on how thick your pole is... I's say try the circumference of the pole plus 2" plus seam allwances for cutting length... And of it's thick heavy fabric, you may want to use some canvas to strengthen them, and make them a bit longer... Distance apart will be what looks good to you: there are no hard and fast rules on this one!

Reply to
Kate XXXXXX

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