Measuring

• To calculate the dimensions and quantity of the fabric strips you need to cut for the tabs, consider the thickness of the curtain pole and your desired amount of gathering. Measure the length of each tab by pinning a strip of fabric around the curtain rod. Remember to add a little extra space so that the curtains will easily slide along the rod when you are opening and closing them, and to allow for seaming. You will need more tabs and wider curtain panels for a more gathered look, or fewer tabs and narrower panels for a smoother appearance. Each finished tab should be at least 3 inches wide; if your curtains are made of heavier fabric, wider tabs are appropriate to better support their weight. Cut a double width plus seam allowances for the tabs. The tabs need to be evenly spaced along the back of the curtain, usually no more than 6 to 8 inches apart to ensure good support.
  
  

Construction

• There are a few different methods for constructing back tab curtains. You can cut an additional facing strip, sew the tabs along the strip, then sew the strip to the top edge of the curtain. Alternatively, allow extra length at the top of the curtain panels, sew the tabs to the right side of the curtains, then fold and sew this section to the reverse side. If the tabs at the back are lined up along the top edge, the top edge of the curtains will be aligned with the pole. If you leave a margin between the top of the curtain and the top edges of the tabs, there will be a narrow heading above the curtain pole as a decorative feature. You can choose to line the curtains, or not. If they are lined, the strip with the tabs attached is folded or sewn over the top of the lining.
  
  

Sewing

• First sew the hem and side seams of the curtain panels (and lining if you are using it). If you are using a facing strip cut to the width of the panel, hem one long side and fold and press each side seam. Prepare the tabs by folding each strip in half lengthwise with the right sides together. Sew along the raw edges, turn the strips right-sides-out, then press the seam well along the center back of each tab. Pin each tab in position with the seam at the back. Space them evenly apart along the right side of the facing strip or top section of the curtain panel. Double fold the top and bottom raw edges of the strips and stitch them in place. It is worth taking the time to ensure the tabs are perfectly aligned with each other as you sew them--otherwise your curtains may not hang straight. If you used a facing strip, align it along the top of the curtain with right sides together. Sew the top seam, press the strip to the wrong side, then sew the bottom and side seams. Otherwise, press the curtain top over to the wrong side and seam the top and bottom edges of the folded section. Hang the curtains by sliding the curtain pole through the back tabs.