Am I understanding correctly that you are turning the fabric a different way to get the two widths and full hems, etc than you would be using it at three widths?

What about 2 1/2 widths?

No, the pattern is running the correct direction. The fabric is about 58" wide. I measured it the long way from end to end. Then I divided that by 87" or whatever it was when I measured, and I ended up with like 3.11 -- I did it about a week ago so I don't remember exactly. But I determined that I can sew three panels side by side giving me a very full look... but don't have diddly squat for hem allowances if I do that. Am I making sense?

I forgot to add that I have bought a big heavy black rod, and curtain rings. So I don't need to sew a casing at the top.

I think they look just lovely the way they are

Yaya, thanks, but those aren't my curtains... just a pic from the 'net. I agree they look nice. My question is how to sew something similar with just barely enough cloth.

Oceanna,

I'm guessing that your windows are around 87 inches long, is that right? I made some drapery panels just like the ones in your picture. Mine are 90" long and the "overhang" is 10"; 11" with the trim. I used the same fabric for the overhang and it could've been an inch longer and looked a little better. I just didn't have enough fabric. I think your plan will work to make the "overhang" longer in the back to gain some additional length. I wouldn't skimp on the hem though as it helps with how the curtains drape.

Oceanna, I'm guessing that your drapes will not be pleated, is that correct? Do you intend to open and close the drapes or will the panels be stationary? How long is your rod? If your window is 87 inches, three widths seems like a lot to me. Take a look at mine, they are two widths but are pleated and seem pretty lush to me. I think my window is slightly bigger than yours but can measure if you want.

I think Les is right that 2 1/2 widths would work for you.

I'm not sure about your hem "facing". The seam at bottom might not allow the draperies to fold/puddle at the bottom correctly. Do a standard double hem. Three widths does seem excessive unless your fabric is lightweight. Love the inspiration pic. You might try the golden rectangle approach to deciding how deep to make the self-valence. And I would be curious to know how Emmatux sensed that hers needed another inch or so to be just right. I'm getting ready to make similar curtains.

Here are mine:

{{gwi:1544850}}

Drapes are 96"; top piece is 21", including fringe.

I would suggest that your contrast piece be about 18 to 22" long. (It is really ok whatever size you use!!! There are no drapery police that will come get you! LOL) Look at how lovely deborah's in NJ are and they used a deep band of color!

As far as the facing to do your hem - that will work and help you to skimp on fabric. But your facing should still be 4" doubled. Will you still need to do a facing if you add the contrast band at the top? If you are using a different fabric for the facing - I would try to avoid the facing and go with less full drapes.

Are you doing 3 widths per drapery panel, or 3 widths total on 2 panels (so they are 1.5 widths a piece)? Are you planning to close the drapes?

How wide is your window?

I printed out the picture and did some measuring. It looks to me like the ruffle is about 20% of the total length of the draperies. "Normal" draperies are 84" long which would make the finished length of the ruffle about "17" long. Of course you would have to add seam allowances, etc. and make adjustment if you are making 84" drapes. BTW this measurement includes that band of dark blue.

Love that inspiration photo! I also like deborahnj's drapes, with the seam right at the chair rail.

If you do a contrast fabric, pay attention to your chair rail, & how the horizontal lines of the drapes & the chair rail speak to each other.

Do you have a pic of your fabric?

Oceanna,
I had my drapes reworked when I moved in to a house with taller ceilings...my valance things are 22" long with fringe.
Here is a pic of the underside..
{{!gwi}}
Here is a long view...
{{!gwi}}
They are double width & the window is 77" trim to trim for reference.
HTH!

Smiles:)