Curtains

As promised, I have pics of the finished curtains and I will try to explain how I made them.  I was so intent on finishing them that I didn't take the time to take pictures of each step.  They are pretty straight forward. 

So I took my measurements of my window, 95x52, added a 1" seam allowance for each side and then cut my fabric out.  I used a white cotton and backed it with a white sheet.  I should also note that my hem was actually the already finished sides of the fabric and sheet.  Saved me allot of time to not have to hem. 
Once I had my fabric cut out I took each piece and sewed 1" down on just the sides.  I did this because I knew I had a rod to put through and I wanted the seams to be completely finished.  From that point I just sewed the pieces together.  Starting with wrong sides together and sewing the sides then flipping the right sides together and sewing the top, then I flipped it inside out again and sewed the already finished hem pieces together.  Hopefully you are still with me......?

I then put the curtain over the rod and stapled it into place to make sure it was securely fixed in place.  I took some silver links that are used for making jewelry and sewed 7 on each end and then two rows down the center.  If you look at my window you can see where the windows are separated.  I wanted the curtains to match that.

My lines point to the places where I placed each row of links.  Then I took some string that I bought at the fabric store and strung it through each link and left enough as a pull.  The two right rows pull to the right and the two left pull to the left.  I also fidgeted a little with skipping some links when putting the string through.  The less links you have your string go through, the fewer layers you will have. 
This project took me approximately 6 hours.  It was honestly much easier than I anticipated and my husband is thrilled that we have curtains that cover the entire window.  The little things in life! 
I have a couple of other projects that I am anxious to get started on, nothing major, but some touching up, reaccessorizing and such.  I'm pretty excited.  Here is a "now" picture of our family room book shelves....

My plan is to lighten it up a bit.  I can't wait to show you my inspiration pictures and then hopefully what I consider to be "my" equivalent.  Have a GREAT Thursday!!!