How to Make a Ribboned Window Topper

Complete the look of your windows by sewing just a few straight lines and adding a touch of ribbon.

Materials and Tools:

fabric
lining
scissors
measuring guide
iron
ribbon
sewing machine or sewing needle
thread

Steps:

1. Decide on the desired topper width. For this project, one full width (54 inches) was used, which was a little less than double fullness. For the double windows, two widths of fabric were sewn together to create the desired fullness.

2. Cut out panels half the length of the window plus 4 inches for mounting the curtain above the window plus more for hems and headers. Cut out a panel of lining fabric the same length as the main fabric but 2 inches narrower.

3. Pin the two fabrics with right sides together and sew the side seams. Turn the fabric right side out and iron the edges so that the lining is centered on the front fabric with about an inch of overlap.

4. Fold the bottom up 1 inch and iron the fold in. Fold it up 2 more inches and iron that fold in. Use a blind hemstitch to secure the hem.

5. For the rod pocket at the top, fold over the edge 1 inch and iron the fold in. Then fold it over two more inches and iron that fold in. Pin along the edge and sew another line of straight stitches.

6. Hang the panels and arrange the gathers so they're even. Place two lengths of grosgrain ribbon over each rod to gather the fabric. Get help to gather the bottom of the fabric to the desired height and secure one ribbon with a knot or a bow. Tie the second ribbon at the same height.