How to Make Victorian Curtains

Measure the distance from the top of the curtain rod to the floor. Add 7 1/2 inches to this length to calculate the length of the fabric pieces.

Measure the length of the curtain rod and divide it in half, since each curtain panel will cover half the rod. Multiply the half length by 3 to calculate the width of the fabric for each panel.

Cut two rectangles of fabric with the dimensions you calculated.

Cut two rectangles of lining fabric 2 inches narrower than the velvet. Pin one side edge of the lining to one side edge of the velvet, with the right sides of the fabric together. Sew the edges together with a 1/2-inch seam allowance.

Pull the other edge of the lining over to meet the other side of the velvet. This will make a fold in the velvet on the first side. Sew these edges together in the same way. Line the other panel in the same way.

Create the casing at the top of each panel by folding 1/2 inch at the top of the panel to the back and folding back another 2 inches for the casing. Sew 1/4 inch from the lower fold to hold the casing in place.

Fold down 1/2 inch on the end of a length of tassel trim and place the fold against the casing seam on the right side of the curtains and along the inside edge. Pin the band at the top of the trim along the inside edge of the curtains so the tassels hang off the edge.

Cut the trim 2 inches above the bottom edge and fold the last 1/2 inch of the trim under to create a finished edge. Sew the trim to the curtain by stitching along both edges of the band.

Fold up 1 inch at the bottom of the curtain and then fold up a 4-inch hem. Pin the hem in place and hang the curtains. You sew the hem later.

Pull the curtains back with heavy cord tiebacks with large tassels.

Allow the curtains to hang for a month. Unfasten the tie backs and adjust the hem if the curtains have stretched. Hand sew the top fold of the hem to the lining. Cut off any tassels located on the trim on the back side of the curtain.