How to Make & Measure for Rod Pocket Recessed Window Panels

Measure the circumference of the spring form rod. Place the rod at the desired height within the recessed window frame, then tighten to width by twisting the two pieces of the rod in opposite directions.

Measure the recessed window width and length. Record the measurement on a piece of paper. Draw a representation of the recessed window on the paper and mark the location of the spring form rod -- usually at the top of the window. For instance, if the window is 5 feet tall and 3 feet wide, the drawing will indicate a rectangle. If the spring form rod will be at the top of the recessed window, then the finished measurements for the fabric will reach from the recessed window top to the bottom.

Double the recessed window width and add 2 inches for clean finished hems on each side. For instance, if the window is 36 inches wide, multiply 36 by 2 (72 inches), then add 2 plus 72 for a total unfinished fabric width of 74 inches.

Add to the recessed window length 3 inches for the curtain hem, and the circumference of the spring form rod plus 1/2-inch. For instance, if the window length is 60-inches, and the spring form rod's circumference is 1 1/2-inches, you would add 60 plus 3 plus 2 for a total unfinished fabric length of 65 inches.

Cut the fabric to size. Fold the sides over twice to the wrong side at 1/2-inch widths. Iron flat. Stitch along the fold edges. This completes clean edging for the curtain sides.

Fold and iron to the wrong fabric side 1/2-inch width at the lower edge. Fold again at 2 1/2-inches. Pin it in place at regular intervals and iron flat. Stitch along the edge. This finishes the hemmed lower curtain panel edge.

Fold and iron to the wrong fabric side 1/2-inch width at the top of the curtain panel. Fold over again 1 1/2-inches. Pin in place and sew along the edge. This creates the upper rod pocket. Insert the spring form rod through the upper rod pocket, distributing shirred fabric evenly. Re-attach to the recessed window panel.