Adding ribbon to curtains

tlc1994

16 years ago

(Forgive me...I also posted this in the Sewing Forum)

I am planning on embellishing some store bought curtains by adding some ribbon to them. Click on the link below to see the look I'm going for.

Anyway, IÂm just afraid that when the curtains are washed, the ribbon may start to curl/scrunch up (if that makes sense).

Any suggestions? Is it best to sew it on or should I use fabric glue? Is one better than the other to prevent anything like this from happening?

Thanks a lot!

Here is a link that might be useful: Pottery Barn Teen Ribbon Drapes

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Comments (11)

patty_cakes
16 years ago
Many fabrics are pre-shrunk which keeps them from shrinking after they're washed. I would not necessarily wash the ribbon, but give it a good soaking, lay flat on a towel, and roll up tight to squeeze most of the moisture out. Dry on a low setting with a dry towel. You will probably have to iron the ribbon whenever you wash the curtains, but it shouldn't get all shriveled up with the pre-washing. I think they'll look very cute in your DD's room. ;o)
andreadeg
16 years ago
I was planning to do something similar with some plain drapes. I wonder if you could attach the ribbon on velcro so that you could remove the ribbon for washing? Or, if not velcro, perhaps with snaps?
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patty_cakes
16 years ago
Double-faced Scotch tape? ;o)
CaroleOH
16 years ago
How often to you wash drapes? I wouldn't worry about that to be honest with you. If they get dusty - vacuum them. If they get really dirty for some reason have them dry cleaned.

I would use use fabric glue. Sewing can make them pucker a bit if your tension isn't just right.

Can you post a photo when they're done? I like the look of ribbons on drapes and can't wait to see yours.
amysrq
16 years ago
Agree with the dry cleaning plan. How about iron-on tape? That seems like it would give the smoothest result. You might even be able to heat it later and peel the ribbon off for a change in color scheme. I am scared of people with (glue) guns!
dody40
16 years ago
Just a thought, instead of ribbon, what about using Wright's bias tape or binding or you could make your own.

dody
ttodd
16 years ago
Much to my little sisters dismay and amusement (she's an avid sewer but I couldn't wait for her) I glued my pom pom frionge on w/ fabric glue!

I didn't even think about the washing thing until I had to wash one and luckily everything came out fine!
User
16 years ago
TIP: Iron both the ribbon and the drapery, use a long stitch with slightly loosened tension.
cooperbailey
16 years ago
If the curtains are washable I would wash them first. Then I would also wash the ribbon.You can put it in a mesh bag to wash. hopefully the bright color will be colorfast. Iron both. then follow lazygardens sewing tip.
But then I am a sewer not a gluer:)
ttodd
16 years ago
LOL! Sometimes you come up w/ ingenious ideas (or so they seem at the time) when you're impatient!

I had to stop myself when I started thinking that I could glue clothes for my daughter.
amysrq
16 years ago
Just this morning I had the idea that we should glue eyeglasses on one of the grandkids...size=2>