Instructions for Roll-Up Porch Curtains

Measure the distance between the wall and porch post. Subtract 4 inches. Cut two pieces of PVC 2-inch pipe with a hacksaw to this length. Drill a 3/16-inch hole 1 inch from one end. Drill a matching hole in line with the first hole on the other end of the same pipe.

Measure the distance between the mounting screw eyes in the overhead crossbeam or structure and the length of the curtain you want. Some curtains end at a porch rail; other curtains flow to just above the floor. Add 12 inches. Cut fabric to this length and the width of the pipes plus 1 inch.

Cut grosgrain ribbon twice the length of the curtain. Calculate two ribbons minimum and one additional ribbon for every 4 feet of curtain width.

Turn the edges under 1/4 inch and iron them. Turn the fold under 1/4 inch and sew a seam around all four sides of the curtain panel.

Place the curtain panel face side down on the work table. Position one PVC pipe 2 inches from the top edge. Wrap the fabric over the pipe and pin it along the seam. Allow the pipe to be loose inside the fabric pocket. Repeat this process with the bottom of the curtain. Remove the pipes.

Sew double-stitch seams along your pin lines. A double-stitch seam is two stitches in the same seam for strength. Insert your pipe with the drilled holes at the top of the curtain. The drill holes should face upward. Fold your ribbons in half and position the fold over the top of the pipe. Evenly space your ribbons across the width of the curtain.

Sew the fold of the ribbons to the top of the curtain using needle and heavy-duty thread and a tacking stitch. Repeat for each ribbon. Insert the second pipe into the bottom pocket of the curtain.