Accurate measurements are the key to professional-looking and successfully sewn window treatments. Follow these guidelines for error-free measuring:

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1 Thank you for subscribing to Sew News magazine! We re excited to have you on board and, as a thank you, we present Dec Specs, a handy reference designed to make your home decorating tasks better, faster and easier. Whether you re sewing a bed coverlet or mounting window hardware, creating continuous bias or designing new curtains, Dec Specs offers quick, concise tips and techniques to make your work easier. Table of Contents 1 Draperies & Curtains 5 Bedding & Tables 9 Making Continuous Bias 12 Matching Prints 14 Needle & Thread Selection 15 Measurement Conversions 16 Glossary of Terms Draperies & Curtains Taking Accurate Window Measurements Accurate measurements are the key to professional-looking and successfully sewn window treatments. Follow these guidelines for error-free measuring: Use a steel measuring tape vs. a cloth or plastic tape measure or a yardstick. Cloth or plastic measuring tapes can stretch out of shape and give inaccurate measurements; yardsticks used alone can cause mistakes when multiple numbers are added together. Mount the hardware before taking any measurements. Use the highest window as a standard for measuring all windows in the same room. Measure and record the measurements for every window, even if windows appear to be the same size. Don t take the builder s or architect s specs for granted. Use a carpenter s level to make sure rods and mounting boards are installed straight. Don t assume window moldings, floors and ceilings are square even in new houses. For more sewing ideas to try today, visit our website at CK Media Page 1

2 What To Measure A. Outside width (including frames) B. between mounted brackets C. Distance from ceiling to hardware upper edge D. Inside window width E. Length from rod upper edge to sill upper edge F. Length from rod upper edge to apron lower edge G. Length from rod upper edge to floor H. Amount of room available on each side of window for stackback I. Frame outside edge to frame Mounting Window Hardware Depending on the window treatment style, rods and mounting boards can be mounted inside or outside of the frame. For an outside mount, install the hardware on the wall above the window frame. For an inside mount, install the hardware inside of the window frame so the molding is exposed. Follow these guidelines for error-free mounting: For a ceiling-mount effect, mount wall-mount hardware so the window treatment just brushes the ceiling; for a true ceiling mount, use a traverse rod designed for ceiling mounting. For a traditional mount, install curtain rods and conventional traverse rods with the rod upper edge even with the window molding upper edge. For decorative rods with rings, mount the brackets so the rod is even with the window frame upper edge and the ring lower edges are ¼ above the molding. To mount a two-way traverse rod, divide the outside width measurement by 6 to determine how far outside the window frame edge to mount the brackets to allow for stacking. To mount a one-way traverse rod, divide the outside width measurement by 3 to determine how far from the window frame edge to mount the stacking-side bracket. Mount the opposite bracket on the wall as for a conventional rod. Special mounting solutions can be used to create an illusion of width or length: To make the window appear wider, install the rod or mounting board several inches out from each side of the frame. To make the window appear taller, mount the rod or mounting board several inches above the window. To make the window appear narrower, mount the rod or board so the curtains hang inside of the frame. For more sewing ideas to try today, visit our website at CK Media Page 2

3 Suggested Drapery Lengths There are three standard lengths in which window treatments are finished: to the sill, below the sill, and to the floor. WINDOW TREATMENTS STANDARD LENGTH Drapes hang to the sill Finish ⅛ above the sill Drapes hang below the sill Finish 2 below the sill Drapes hang to the floor Finish within ½ of the floor Puddled hems are used to create opulence Drape onto the floor 10 to 20 Determining Yardages For Draperies & Curtains To determine the fabric yardage required for a specific drapery or curtain, first calculate the desired finished length and width. Mount the rod(s) before measuring, allowing for appropriate stackback. Use the following guidelines and charts when determining drapery length: Note: The finished width of pleated draperies is the area the drape must cover when pulled closed and doesn t include the fullness needed to create the pleats. If using a conventional traverse rod, measure from the rod upper edge to the desired finished length; add ½ so the drape upper edge will cover the rod. If using a decorative traverse rod, measure from the ring lower edge to the desired finished length. If using a pole rod with rings, measure from the ring pinholes to the desired finished length. Calculating Finished For One-Way Draw 1. Rod 2. Plus 5 For Ease Finished = Calculating Finished For Two-Way Draw 1. Rod 2. Plus Allowance For Two Returns 3. Plus 5 For Center Overlap Finished = Fabric Calculations For Pleated Draperies Note: These calculations are based on the use of pleater tapes (including standard pinch-pleat tapes and pull-cord pinchpleat tapes). 1. Finished Drapery 2. Multiply by 2 for medium- and heavyweight fabrics or 3 for sheer or lightweight fabrics x= 3. Add 5 for side hems + 5 For more sewing ideas to try today, visit our website at CK Media Page 3

4 4. Divide by fabric width to determine number of panels = 5. Total number of panels needed (round up to nearest whole number) 6. Desired Finished Length 7. Add 8 for heading Add 8 for hem Add repeat (if any) Multiply by number of panels needed x= 11. Divide by 36 to determine total yardage needed 36 = Fabric Calculations For Rod Pocket Curtains Rod pocket curtains are flat fabric panels with a stitched rod pocket, heading and hem. A rod is inserted into the pocket. 1. Measure the rod width, plus returns 2. Multiply by 2½ x 2.5 = 3. Add 5 for side hems Divide by fabric width to determine number of panels = 5. Total number of panels needed (round up to nearest whole number) 6. Desired finished length from rod upper edge 7. Add amount (5½ to 17 ) for rod pocket and header* + 8. Add 8 for hem Add repeat (if any) Multiply by number of panels needed x= 11. Divide by 36 to determine total yardage needed 36 = *To determine rod pocket size, measure around rod or pole and add 1 (this measurement may vary from 1½ to 10 ). Header size is usually 2 or 3, depending on rod size and fabric weight. Multiply header size by 2 and add to rod pocket size. Use this number for step No. 7. For more sewing ideas to try today, visit our website at CK Media Page 4

5 Bedding & Tables STANDARD MATTRESS SIZES Twin (Including Day Beds) 39 x 75 Antique (or Three-Quarter Bed) 48 x 75 Double 54 x 75 Queen 60 x 80 King 76 x 80 California King 72 x 84 STANDARD PILLOW SHAPES & SIZES Shape Size Manufacturer Shape Size Manufacturer Bed-Size 10 x15 AL Round 16 AL Bed-Size 12 x16 AL Round 18 AL Bed-Size 14 x18 AL Round 20 AL Bed-Size 20 x27 AL Round 22 AL Bed-Size 22 x27 AL Square 10 AL Bed-Size 22 x30 AL Square 12 AL, MM, F Bolster (Neckroll) 5 x14 F Square 14 AL, MM, A, F Bolster (Neckroll) 6 x14 A Square 16 AL, MM, A, F Bolster (Neckroll) 7 x16 AL, MM Square 20 AL, MM,A, F Heart-Shape 12 MM Square 22 AL, F Heart-Shape 24 AL Square 26 AL, F Rectangular 12 x16 AL, MM, A, F Square 28 AL Round 12 AL Square 30 AL, F Round 14 AL, MM, F Square 37 AL MANUFACTURER KEY AL = Air-Lite Synthetics Mfg. Inc. MM = Mountain Mist A = Airtex-Division of Federal Foam Technologies F = Fairfield Processing Corp. For more sewing ideas to try today, visit our website at CK Media Page 5

6 Measuring For Coverlets, Comforters & Dust Ruffles Before measuring the bed for coverlets, comforters and dust ruffles, make up the bed with the sheets and blankets you normally use on the bed. Coverlets Coverlets are usually made from pre-quilted fabric or of two similar-weight fabrics; no batting or filling is used. A coverlet covers three sides of the bed: the lower edge and both sides. The coverlet edges are usually rounded. Traditionally, this bed covering style is combined with a dust ruffle to cover the box spring and pillow shams to cover the head of the bed. To determine size and yardage for a coverlet, follow these steps: 1. Measure from bed head to bed foot (A) for finished length 2. Measure across bed from side to side (B) for finished length 3. Measure from mattress upper surface to 3 to 4 below mattress line (C) for drop 4. Add A + C + 1 for seam allowance to determine cut length = 5. Add B + (2 x C) + 1 for seam allowance to determine cut width + (2 x ) + 1 = 6. To determine yardage, divide coverlet cut width (found in step 5) by fabric width (round to nearest whole number). This figure will tell you how many panels are needed to construct coverlet = 7. If fabric has a repeat, add repeat distance to cut length (found in step 4); multiply by number of panels for fabric amount needed. Divide by 36 to determine total yardage Comforters A comforter is similar to a coverlet in size and function, except it is plumper because of one or more layers of batting. In contrast to a coverlet, a comforter has square corners. The comforter layers are held together with decorative stitching or quilting or are tufted with decorative threads or yarns. The stitched designs can be recognizable shapes (clouds, flowers, etc.) or geometric in design. For more sewing ideas to try today, visit our website at CK Media Page 6

7 To determine size and yardage for a comforter, follow these steps: 1. Measure from bed head to bed foot (A) for finished length 2. Measure across bed from side to side (B) for finished length 3. Measure from mattress upper surface to 6 to 7 below mattress line (C) for drop (allows for shrinkage during quilting) 4. Add A + C + 1 for seam allowance to determine cut length 5. Add B + (2 x C) + 1 for seam allowance to determine cut width 6. To determine yardage, divide comforter cut width (found in step 5) by fabric width (round to nearest whole number). This figure will tell you how many panels are needed to construct comforter 7. If fabric has a repeat, add repeat distance to cut length (found in step 4); multiply by number of panels for fabric amount needed. Divide by 36 to determine total yardage = + (2 x ) + 1 = = Dust Ruffles Dust ruffles are skirts for beds. The skirt is attached to a deck, the portion of the dust ruffle that lies between the box spring and mattress. The deck fabric may or may not be the same as the ruffle. To determine the size and yardage of a dust ruffle for your bed, follow these steps: Deck 1. Measure from bed head to bed foot (A) + 1 for seam allowance for cut length 2. Measure across bed from side to side (B) + 1 for seam allowance for cut width 3. To determine yardage, divide cut width (found in step 2) by the fabric width (round to nearest whole number). This figure will tell you how many panels are needed to construct deck = 4. Multiply cut length by number of panels for fabric amount needed; divide by 36 to get total yardage x= 5. Divide by 36 to get total yardage 36 = Ruffle 1. Measure from bed head to bed foot (A) for finished legth; multiply by 2 x 2 = 2. Measure across bed from side to side (B) for finished width 3. Add A and B together += For more sewing ideas to try today, visit our website at CK Media Page 7

8 4. Multiply total by 2 or 2½ for desired fullness x 2 = 5. Divide above figure by fabric width. This figure will tell you how many crosswise strips are needed for ruffle = 6. Measure from mattress lower edge to ½ from the floor (D) for drop; add 4½ (for a double 2 hem and ½ seam allowance). This is cut length; if fabric has repeat, add repeat distance to cut length = 7. Multiply number of strips by cut length for fabric amount needed x = 8. Divide by 36 to get total yardage 36 = Measuring For Tablecloths & Napkins Tablecloths Tablecloths for round, square, rectangle and oval tables require only a few simple calculations to determine appropriate yardage. Before yardage is calculated, determine the tablecloth drop using these guidelines: For casual tablecloths, the drop is 10 to 12 or about 1 to 2 above chair seat. For formal tablecloths, the drop length is 16 to 24 and may drape on the seat of the chairs. For full-length tablecloths, the drop length should fall to within ½ of the floor (approximately 29 to 30 ). For puddled tabelcloths, add an extra 20 to the length measurement. To determine the size and yardage for a round tablecloth, follow these steps: 1. Measure tabletop diameter 2. Add twice desired drop += 3. Add 2 for hem and seam allowances Total equals finished diameter of circle that will make tablecloth + 2 = 4. Divide by fabric width (round to highest whole number). This figure will tell you how many panels are needed to construct tablecloth. Most tablecloths require one or two panels = 5. Multiply number of panels by finished diameter. Resulting figure is required fabric amount in inches x = 6. If fabric has repeat, multiply repeat distance by number of panels needed x = 7. Add this number to figure determined in step 5 + = 8. Divide by 36 to convert to yardage 36 = For more sewing ideas to try today, visit our website at CK Media Page 8

9 Napkins Napkins, which are simply fabric squares, are quick and easy to make and take on myriad looks when folded creatively. Napkins can be any size, but traditional cocktail napkins are 9½ square and dinner-size napkins are 18 to 20 square. Consider these guidelines when making napkins: Cut napkins 1 larger than the desired finished size for a doubled ¼ hem. Cut napkin squares to the finished size if the edges will be bound. Cut napkin squares ½ larger if the edges will be serged, allowing ¼ for trimming. Consider using two different lightweight fabrics (wrong sides together) for creative results when folded. Keep in mind napkins made from printed fabrics may limit creative napkin-folding options. Napkin edges can be fused, stitched, serged, pinked, fringed or trimmed. Cotton or cotton-blend fabrics are the best choices for napkins because of absorbency and easycare characteristics. To minimize fabric waste, consider how many napkins can be cut from a full fabric width; alter the napkin size if necessary. For more sewing ideas to try today, visit our website at CK Media Page 9

10 Making Continuous Bias AMOUNT OF CONTINUOUS BIAS FROM 1 YARD OF FABRIC (Rounded To Nearest Whole Yard) Fabric Bias Strip Cut 1 ¼ 1 ¾ 2 ¼ 2 ¾ 3 ¾ yards 25 yards 19 yards 16 yards 12 yards yards 30 yards 23 yards 19 yards 14 yards yards 34 yards 26 yards 21 yards 16 yards To determine the number of yards of bias strips a given fabric will yield, use this formula: 1. Multiply the fabric width by the fabric length x = 2. Divide by the desired cut bias width = 3. Divide by 36 to convert to yardage 36 = Making Continuous Bias 1. Straighten the fabric cut edge. 2. To establish the bias line, fold one fabric end at a 45-degree angle, bringing the cut edge to the selvage edge. Finger-press the fold ends (A). 3. Using a fabric marker and ruler, draw a line connecting fold ends. Carefully cut along the line (B). 4. Position the fabric triangle at the uncut fabric end as shown (C). Right sides together, stitch the two pieces together in a ¼ seam. Press the seam to one side. For more sewing ideas to try today, visit our website at CK Media Page 10

11 5. On the fabric wrong side, draw lines parallel to the bias edges, spacing them the distance of the bias strip width required for your project (D). 6. Match the drawn lines at the fabric angled ends, then offset the fabric so one strip extends to each side (E). Right sides together, stitch the fabric angled ends together in a ¼ seam. Press the seam allowances to one side. 7. Cut along the draw lines until the entire tube is one long bias strip (F). For more sewing ideas to try today, visit our website at CK Media Page 11

12 Matching Prints To achieve the needed width for home decorating projects, most fabrics require piecing. The designs should match exactly at the joining seams for a pleasing effect. To match the motifs, measure the distance between the repeating designs along the selvage edge (A). Multiply the repeat distance by the number of panels needed for your project and round up to nearest ¼ yard. For example, if the repeat is 27 and two panels are needed to accommodate the fullness of the item you re making, you need at least 54 extra inches (1 ½ yards) of fabric. Decorator fabrics are usually printed so the motifs match exactly when panels are stitched together just inside the selvage; therefore the whole fabric width is usable. If you re using 45 fabric, the usable width is narrower because the motifs aren t necessarily planned to match at the selvages. To determine the usable width of your selected fabric, observe how the motifs are printed between the two selvage edges and how they can be divided to match when panels are sewn together. You may lose up to 10 per fabric width to ensure the motifs will match. Measure the usable distance and use this number as the fabric width in yardage calculations. Repeat is distance between repeating designs along selvage. Example: If making rod pocket curtains to fit a 35 -wide window (distance to the floor is 81 ), the calculations for 54 - wide fabric with a 27 repeat would be as follows: 1. Measure the rod, plus returns Multiply by 2 ½ 41 x 2.5 = Add 5 for side hems = Divide by fabric width to determine number of panels needed for fullness = 1.99 panels 5. Round up to nearest whole number 2 panels 6. Desired Finished Length (from rod upper edge) Add 5 ½ to 17 for rod pocket and header (we chose 12 ) = Add 8 for hem = Add repeat = Multiply by number of panels needed 128 x 2 = Divide by 36 to convert to yards = 7.1 yards 12. Round up to nearest ¼ yard 7 ¼ yards For more sewing ideas to try today, visit our website at CK Media Page 12

13 Joining Fabric s When joining fabric width, do not stitch widths together so a seam will run through the project middle. Instead, cut a width in half lengthwise and stitch half to each side. Refer to the following diagrams for multiple-panel projects. Use for curtains requiring three panels: Half Half Use for project requiring two panels: Half Half Use for project requiring three panels: Use for project requiring four panels: Half Half For more sewing ideas to try today, visit our website at CK Media Page 13

14 Needle & Thread Selection Selecting the appropriate needle and thread is important for successful home decorating projects. Delicate fabrics require fine needles and threads, while heavier-weight fabrics require coarser sizes. Always select a regular point sewing machine needle for woven fabrics. Cotton-covered polyester and 100% polyester threads are good-quality all-purpose threads. Mercerized cotton is a good choice to use on natural fibers such as cotton, linen, silk and wool. Button and carpet thread are used in projects in which heavy-duty threads are needed. Pearl cotton thread is used for tying quilts and comforters. DECORATOR FABRIC WEIGHT & TYPE Very Light: chiffon, fine lace, organdy, organza, voile Light: batiste, chambray, dotted Swiss, eyelet, handkerchief linen, lace, lightweight sheers Medium Light: gingham, satin, sheeting Medium: antique satin, broadcloth, chenille, chintz, corduroy (baby and medium wale), damask, flannel, lace, moiré taffeta, muslin, piqué, sateen, velvet, velveteen Medium Heavy: brocade, burlap, denim, fleece, prequilted fabrics, textured linen, tweed, twill Heavy: corduroy (wide-wale), sailcloth, ticking Very Heavy: canvas, duck, upholstery fabrics RECOMMENDED THREADS Extra-fine cotton-covered polyester; 100% polyester; mercerized cotton, size 50 or 60 Extra-fine cotton-covered polyester; 100% polyester; mercerized cotton, size 50 or 60 Cotton-covered polyester; 100% polyester; mercerized cotton, size 50 or 60 Cotton-covered polyester; 100% polyester; mercerized cotton, size 50 Cotton-covered polyester; 100% polyester; mercerized cotton, size 40 or 50 Extra-strong cotton-covered polyester; heavy-duty 100% polyester; mercerized cotton, size 40 Extra-strong cotton-covered polyester; heavy-duty 100% polyester; mercerized cotton, size 8, 20, 30 or 40 RECOMMENDED MACHINE NEEDLE 9, , 14 14, 16 16, For more sewing ideas to try today, visit our website at CK Media Page 14

15 Measurement Conversions INCHES TO YARDAGES CONVERSION CHART (Always round up to the nearest ⅛-yard increment) 4 ½ = ⅛ yard 58 ½ = 1 ⅝ yards 9 = ¼ yard 63 = 1 ¾ yards 13 ½ = ⅜ yard 67 ½ = 1 ⅞ yards 18 = ½ yard 72 = 2 yards 22 ½ = ⅝ yard 76 ½ = 2 ⅛ yards 27 = ¾ yard 81 = 2 ¼ yards 31 ½ = ⅞ yard 85 ½ = 2 ⅜ yards 36 = 1 yard 90 = 2 ½ yards 40 ½ = 1 ⅛ yards 94 ½ = 2 ⅝ yards 45 = 1 ¼ yards 99 = 2 ¾ yards 49 ½ = 1 ⅜ yards 103 ½ = 2 ⅞ yards 54 = 1 ½ yards 108 = 3 yards CIRCUMFERENCE CHART Diameter Circumference (rounded up) Figuring circumference is necessary when calculating yardage for round tablecloths, pillows or lampshade coverings. This figure is also essential when using decorative trims so the correct amount is purchased or made. To find the circumference of any circle, multiply the diameter by 3.14 and round to the nearest whole number. For quick reference, refer to the chart above. Metric Conversions Metric To English English To Metric mm = millimeter 1mm =.039 ⅛ = 3mm cm = centimeter 1cm =.39 ¼ = 6mm m = meter 1m = ⅜ = 10mm or 1 cm Decimal Equivalents of Fractions When converting running inches to yardages, the total number is divided by 36. Commonly the resulting number will contain a decimal. To convert that decimal to a fraction, simply refer to the following chart and select the next higher decimal equivalent to your figure and select the corresponding fraction. For example: 233 by 36 = The next highest decimal equivalent of.472 is.5; therefore, the total yardage would be 6 ½ yards. ⅛ =.125 ¼ =.25 ⅜ =.375 ½ =.5 ⅝ =.625 ¾ =.75 ⅞ =.875 ½ = 13mm or 1.3cm ⅝ = 15mm or 1.5cm ¾ = 20mm or 2cm ⅞ = 22mm or 2.2cm 1 = 25mm or 2.5cm ⅛ yard =.12m ¼ yard =.23m ⅜ yard =.35m ½ yard =.46m ⅝ yard =.58m ¾ yard =.69m ⅞ yard =.81m 1 yard =.92m For more sewing ideas to try today, visit our website at CK Media Page 15

16 Glossary of Terms Appliqué: Baste: Batting: Bias: Box Pleat: Buckram: Clip: Cording: Curtains: Cut Length: Draperies: Drop: Fabric : Face Fabric: Fiberfill: Finger-press: ness: Gimp: Grainline: Heading: Shape cut from fabric and applied to another surface. Long, temporary stitches that hold two or more layers of fabric together; can be done by hand or machine. Made of polyester, polyester/cotton, cotton, wool or silk, it is middle layer in bed coverings that gives cover loft. Diagonal fabric grain; ideal for piping and binding because it curves smoothly. Pleating technique that folds fabric in opposite directions so they meet in middle. Coarse, heavily sized fabric used for stiffening; available in precut widths or by the yard. Short cuts into seam allowance around curves to create ease. Tubular braid often covered with bias strips for decorative purposes; also refers to the roping that raises and lowers balloon-type shades. Window coverings installed on stationary rods; generally have rod pockets and ruffled headings. Total length measurement that includes all seam allowances and heading allowance. Window coverings installed on traverse rods with pin hooks; tailored window covering with pleated, smocked or gathered heading. Distance from table or mattress edge to finished edge. Fabric measurement from selvage to selvage. Decorator fabric. Loose material used for stuffing. Technique of pressing small fabric sections without an iron; fabrics are flattened between thumb and forefinger. Allowance for gathers, usually 2 ½ to 3 times the window width or pillow or tablecloth perimeter. Narrow braid used to cover exposed seams; also can be used as embellishment. Directions of threads that make up fabric; lengthwise grain threads are parallel to selvage and crosswise grain threads are at right angles to selvage. Window treatment upper edge that extends above rod. For more sewing ideas to try today, visit our website at CK Media Page 16

17 Miter: Overlap: Pattern Repeat: Piping: Pleater Tape: Return: Rod Pocket: Running Inches: Seam Allowance: Selvage: Shirring Tape: Stackback: Staystitch: Usable Fabric : Weights: Angle formed at corner for neat finish. Amount edges overlap each other when draperies are closed completely. Distance between same design or motif on fabric or wallpaper. Fabric-covered cording with lip for insertion. Woven band featuring evenly spaced pockets to create pleats. Distance rod extends from wall. Portion of curtain into which rod is inserted. Total number of continuous inches. Distance from stitching line to fabric edge, usually ½ for home decorating projects. Finished edge on woven fabrics. Woven band with cording inserted in horizontal rows to create designs when applied to fabric and cords pulled. Area a drape occupies when pulled completely open so entire window is exposed. Straight line of machine stitching inside seam allowance used to stabilize a curved or bias edge. Actual fabric area that can be utilized; not always complete fabric width. Heavy pellets used in drapery and curtain hems to help fabric hang evenly. Copyright 2009 CK Media LLC 741 Corporate Circle, Suite A Golden, CO All rights reserved. Nothing may be reprinted in whole or in part without permission from the publisher. The information in this publication is presented in good faith, but no warranty is given nor results guaranteed. Since Dec Specs has no control over your choice of materials or procedures, neither Dec Specs nor CK Media LLC assumes any responsibility for the use of this data. Susan Voigt-Reising, Editor Donna Babylon, Writer Laurie Baker-McNeile, Illustration For more sewing ideas to try today, visit our website at CK Media Page 17