By Erin Huffstetler |24/08/2020 |
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The last time I had to buy a shower curtain I was shocked at how expensive they had become and disappointed with the choice so when I needed another shower curtain this week, I decided to make my own. It was an easy project and cost nothing, since I was able to use materials from my stash.
After considering all my options I decided to make my shower curtain out of this vintage screen printed cotton canvas I salvaged a few years ago I think I bought it at the thrift store near our cabin, but I don't remember for sure.
This navy and scorched sienna combo was calling my name, and I think it was meant to be because I had just enough for this project.
Want to learn how to make your own shower curtains? Let me show you how it's done.
How to make a shower curtain with buttonholes
These instructions make a standard 72" x 72" shower curtain. If you need a different length or width, simply adjust the measurements accordingly. To save time and money, the top of this shower curtain is made with buttonholes rather than grommets.
What you'll need: Optional (but nice to have):Unless you're working with a roll of upholstery fabric, you'll probably have to sew two pieces of fabric together to make a 74-inch-wide piece. If that's the case, add an extra half-inch to the width of the fabric to account for the extra seam. This means you will need a 76" x 74-1/2" piece.
What are you doing:Match the pattern on both pieces of fabric and pin or tie together.
Sew a 1/4-inch seam to join the pieces. Trim any excess fabric from the seam. Then lay the fabric face down on your work surface.
To hem the first side, fold the edge over 1/2 inch. Then fold it over another 1/2 inch and pin or clip in place. I have a thing for sewing clips because you can tie them with just one hand and because they won't pucker or pucker your fabric.
Sew along the edge of your hem to secure. Repeat the process with the other side.
Then repeat the process one more time to create the bottom hem of your shower curtain.
To create the top hem, fold the fabric over 1-1/2 inches. Then fold it over another 1-1/2 inches.
Note: If you're using a lightweight fabric, you may want to add an interfacing to make the top of your shower curtain stronger, so it won't tear with frequent use.
Sew along the edge of your hem to secure.
Next, turn your shower curtain right side out and use a shower curtain or shower curtain liner as a template to mark where your buttonholes should go. To do this, simply lay a curtain or liner over it. you are making and use a marker or water soluble pencil to make a mark inside each buttonhole.
If you don't have a curtain or liner you can use for this purpose, simply space 12 buttonholes evenly across the top of your curtain.
Then use your sewing machine to sew a 7/8 inch long buttonhole in each of the places you marked. Each machine handles this a little differently. Just follow the instructions that came with your machine and you'll be amazed at how easy with which it is.
My machine has a one-step buttonhole foot that makes the job a breeze. Just stick the button you plan to use at the top of the foot and it automatically makes the correct size hole. This is how your machine works, use a 3/4 inch button to create your shower curtain buttonholes.
Once you have sewn all your buttonholes, open them with a seam ripper. Since I used cotton canvas for my shower curtain, I found it easier to open the holes with a utility knife.
Then all you have to do is grab a few shower curtain rings and hang your new shower curtain! I recommend using a liner so it lasts a long time.
