Last Updated on February 4, 2024
If you are faced with shortening your ready-made curtains or sewing a new curtain at home, you may be contemplating the costs involved and wondering if investing in a sewing machine is worth it. With numerous options available, choosing the best sewing machine for curtain projects can be overwhelming. Here, we have curated a list of the five best sewing machines perfect for crafting stunning curtains.
Is it cheaper to sew my own curtains?
Sewing your own curtains may be cheaper in terms of cost, but it can consume a significant amount of your time. While it saves money, it is important to consider the trade-off in terms of convenience. Sewing curtain fabrics requires a considerable investment of time and effort.
The 5 best Sewing Machine for Curtains
These machines offer the features and versatility you need to bring your curtain ideas to life. Get ready to elevate your home decor with the perfect sewing machine for curtains making.
- Brother Project Runway CS5055PRW
- Brother CS6000i
- Janome DC2013
- Singer Heavy Duty 4452
- Brother HC1850
1. Brother Project Runway CS5055PRW – Top Choice for Sewing Curtains
| Brand | Brother |
| Color | White |
| Product Dimensions | 10.75″D x 19.48″W x 15.96″H |
The Brother Project Runway CS5055PRW 
sewing machine is ideal for curtain sewing. This brother machine is extremely user-friendly and simple to use, making it ideal for those who are new to sewing.
Simplicity
One of the standout features of this machine is its simplicity. The step-by-step instructions in the tutorial make it easy to understand and follow along, even for someone with little sewing experience. Each process is clearly explained and demonstrated, from plugging in the machine to threading the bobbin.
Stitch setting
This machine proves to be efficient and reliable when it comes to sewing curtains. The straight stitch setting and adjustable settings for length and width allow for precise and clean sewing.
Presser foot
The included presser foot, matched to the appropriate letter designation, ensures that the needle and fabric are properly aligned, preventing any mishaps or needle breakage. So, the Brother CS5055PRW is a top choice for sewing curtains, especially for beginners. Its ease of use, clear instructions, and reliable performance make it a valuable tool for anyone looking to create beautiful curtains effortlessly.
2. Brother CS6000i – Most user-friendly
| Brand | Brother |
| Color | Wide Table |
| Product Dimensions | 6.7″D x 16″W x 11.4″H |
Brother CS6000i is another ideal sewing machine to tackle your curtain projects. This machine is a true gem when it comes to sewing curtains, and here’s why:
User-friendly
Firstly, it’s incredibly user-friendly. It walks you through the threading process, ensuring you can start sewing without any frustration or confusion. The clear instructions and close-up views make it easy to follow along and get your machine up and running quickly.
Reliable and efficient
When it comes to sewing curtains, having a reliable and efficient machine is crucial, and the CS6000i (review) delivers on both fronts. It offers a smooth and consistent stitching experience, allowing you to create flawless curtains easily. The machine’s versatility enables you to work with various fabric types and weights, ensuring you can tackle any curtain project that comes your way.
Automatic needle threading
One of the standout features of the CS6000i is its automatic needle threading function. Threading needles can be tedious, especially when dealing with intricate curtain designs. With this machine, you can bid farewell to squinting and struggling with tiny needles. The automatic needle threading feature saves you time and effort, making the sewing process much more enjoyable.
Built-in stitches and adjustable speed settings
Also, you can perfectly customize your curtain designs with a wide range of built-in stitches and adjustable speed settings. The machine’s generous workspace provides ample room for maneuvering large curtain panels, ensuring you can work comfortably and achieve professional results.
3. Janome DC2013 – For both beginners and experienced
| Brand | Janome |
| Color | White and Blue |
| Is Electric | Yes |
This versatile janome sewing machine offers a wide range of features, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced sewers.
Computer controls and stitches
One of the standout features of the Janome DC 2013 is its abundance of computer controls and stitches. While this might initially seem overwhelming, take it seriously. In fact, it makes this machine ideal for newcomers to sewing, allowing you to adjust to different speeds and stitch options gradually.
Speed control
The speed control feature is particularly useful as it overrides the foot control, giving you precise control over your sewing speed.
Needle
The Janome DC2013 shines in this aspect with its needle-up and needle features. This allows you to stop the needle in the fabric, making it incredibly convenient for tasks like appliqué work. You can easily lift the presser foot, turn corners, and achieve intricate details without the risk of losing your place.
Auto-lock feature
The machine’s auto-lock feature is another highlight. It ties off stitches underneath the fabric, ensuring your seams or hems have a secure and neat finish. No more need for manual reverse stitching or worrying about back tacks showing on the top side of your curtains.
Durability and performance
In terms of durability and performance, the Janome DC 2013 doesn’t disappoint. With all-metal working parts and a powerful motor, it can handle various fabrics, including thicker materials like quilting or denim. The 7-point feed dog system ensures smooth and precise fabric feeding, reducing the chances of puckering even with lighter materials.
Built-in stitches
The machine’s built-in stitches further enhances its versatility. From straight stitches and buttonholes to decorative and appliqué stitches, you’ll have ample options to add unique touches to your curtains. The stitch length and width are easily adjustable, allowing you to customize your sewing to suit your specific needs.
Accessories
Also, the Janome DC2013 comes with a generous selection of standard accessories, including different presser feet and a quarter-inch seam guide foot. The accessory tray provides convenient storage for these extras, keeping everything organized and within reach during your sewing projects.
So, the Janome DC 2013 is an outstanding sewing machine for curtains. Its user-friendly features, precision controls, and excellent performance make it a top choice for beginners and experienced sewers alike. With this machine, you’ll have the confidence to create beautiful curtains that add a touch of elegance to any space.
4. Singer Heavy Duty 4452
| Brand | SINGER |
| Color | Gray |
| Product Dimensions | 6.25″D x 15.5″W x 12″H |
We reviewed this machine earlier. The Singer Heavy Duty 4452 is an exceptional sewing machine that proves to be the perfect choice for sewing curtains. Its impressive features and capabilities ensure a smooth and efficient sewing experience. Here’s why it stands out as the best sewing machine for curtains.
stitches
One of the key reasons to choose the Singer 4452 is its wide range of stitches. With various stitch options available, including utility stitches, stretch stitches, and decorative stitches, you have the flexibility to create beautiful curtain designs and embellishments. This machine can create a simple straight stitch or a more complicated pattern.
Easily adjustable stitch length
Another important aspect of curtain sewing is stitch length, and this machine offers easy adjustability. You can set the stitch length according to the thickness of your fabric, ensuring strong and secure seams. The stitch selection dial provides clear indications for different stitch types, making it convenient to switch between them as needed.
Stitch width and needle position adjustments
The Singer Heavy Duty 4452 also offers excellent control and precision with its stitch width and needle position adjustments. You can easily customize the width of your stitches, allowing you to create curtains with varying design elements.
Three available needle positions
Also, the three available needle positions enable you to sew close to the edge of the fabric or maintain the ideal center position for accurate stitching.
Durability
Durability is a notable feature of this machine, as its heavy-duty construction ensures it can easily handle the demands of sewing curtains. This sewing machine delivers consistent results from thick and heavy fabrics to multiple layers without compromising stitch quality or performance.
Reliable tension control
Lastly, the Singer Heavy Duty 4452 provides reliable tension control, which is crucial for achieving well-balanced stitches. Although tension adjustment should be made cautiously, especially when using different thread weights, this machine offers the necessary flexibility to ensure your curtains turn out flawlessly.
5. Brother HC1850
| Brand | Brother |
| Color | White |
| Product Dimensions | 12.5″D x 19.2″W x 15.2″H |
The Brother HC1850 is an excellent sewing machine for curtains. It offers a range of features and capabilities that make it ideal for this specific task. Here’s why it’s a good machine for sewing curtains:
Easy Bobbin Winding
The Brother HC1850 provides clear instructions on how to wind the bobbin, ensuring that you can quickly and efficiently prepare the lower thread for sewing your curtains.
Smooth Upper Threading
Threading the upper thread is made simple with step-by-step instructions. The machine guides you through the process, from placing the spool onto the spool pin to passing the thread through various guides, ensuring hassle-free threading.
Stitch Selection
With the Brother HC1850, you can choose from various stitches, including utility stitches for curtain construction, overcasting stitches for finishing seams, and blind hem stitches for hemming curtains. The stitch selection feature allows you to easily customize and create the perfect stitch for your curtain project.
Adjustable Stitch Length and Width
This machine lets you adjust the stitch length and width according to your requirements. This versatility is essential for sewing curtains of different thicknesses and fabrics, allowing you to achieve professional-looking results.
Buttonhole Function
Sewing buttonholes on curtains can be tedious, but the Brother HC1850 simplifies the process. It offers a buttonhole foot and a selection of buttonhole stitches, making it convenient and efficient to create precise and durable buttonholes for curtain fastening.
Character Stitches
If you want to add decorative elements to your curtains, the HC1850 includes character stitches. These stitches allow you to sew letters and numbers onto your curtains, adding a personal touch or labeling.
Easy Maintenance
The Brother HC1850 is designed for easy cleaning and needle replacement. It provides clear instructions on changing the needle and offers a removable needle plate cover for easy access to the bobbin area, making maintenance a breeze.
So, the Brother HC1850 is a versatile and user-friendly sewing machine that is well-suited for sewing curtains. It’s convenient features, adjustable settings, and reliable performance ensure that your curtain sewing projects are completed with precision and efficiency.
Can I sew my own curtains? How to Sew a DIY Curtain?
Can a beginner sew curtains? Yes, you can sew your own curtains. And sewing curtains is an excellent project for beginners and a fantastic way to add a custom touch to your space. Not only do curtains provide privacy, but they also add a unique style to your home. To make curtains with a sewing machine, follow these steps:
Materials needed – What do you need to sew curtains?
- Drapery fabric
- Scissors or a rotary cutter and mat
- Pins
- Thread
- Ruler or measuring tape
- Fabric marker or pencil
- Sewing gauge (optional)
- Iron
Step 1: Pick the size of your curtain panel
Take the desired dimensions and add 4 inches to the width and 12 inches to the height to account for the hems. For example, if you want a curtain that is 3 feet wide and 4 feet tall, cut the fabric to 40 inches wide by 60 inches high.
Step 2: Hem the sides of the panel
Fold one edge over 1 inch and press it with an iron. Then fold it over another inch and iron it again. Sew down the length of the panel about 3/4 of an inch from the edge of the fabric. Backstitch at the beginning and end to secure the stitches. Repeat this process for the other side of the panel.
Step 3: Create the rod pocket
The rod pocket should be at least twice the diameter of the curtain rod. For example, if your curtain rod is 1.5 inches in diameter, you’ll want to make a 3-inch double-fold hem. Fold the fabric over 3 inches and iron it. Then fold it over another 3 inches and press it again. Sew along the bottom crease of the hem about 1/4 inch from the edge to form the pocket.
Step 4: (Optional) Add a header
The header will extend the panel slightly past the curtain rod’s top. Sew 1 inch from the top of the panel to form a 1-inch header.
Step 5: Sew the bottom hem
Hang the curtain panel first to judge better how much to hem. Iron another 3-inch double fold at the bottom, similar to the top hem. Sew down the width of the panel about 1/4 inch from the crease.
13 Things to Look Before Buying an SM for Curtains
When selecting a sewing machine for curtains, it’s essential to consider various features to ensure it meets your specific needs. Here’s a simple buying guide to help you make an informed decision:
- Stitch Options: Look for a machine with a variety of stitch options. Straight stitches, zigzag stitches, and blind hem stitches are crucial for curtain making. A machine with decorative stitches may also offer creative possibilities.
- Heavy-Duty Capability: Curtains often require sewing through multiple layers of fabric. Choose a machine with a strong motor and heavy-duty construction to handle thicker fabrics effortlessly.
- Adjustable Stitch Length and Width: Ensure the machine allows you to adjust both stitch length and width. This flexibility is essential for different curtain fabrics and sewing techniques.
- Free Arm Design: A free arm design is useful for sewing cylindrical pieces like curtain hems. It provides easier maneuverability and ensures neat, even stitches on circular sections.
- Extension Table: Consider a machine with an extension table or a large work area. This is especially beneficial when working on large curtain panels, providing stability and ample space.
- Adjustable Presser Foot: An adjustable presser foot is essential for sewing various fabric thicknesses. This feature ensures even stitching and prevents fabric puckering.
- Thread Cutter and Needle Threader: Look for a machine with built-in features like a thread cutter and needle threader. These additions save time and make the sewing process more convenient.
- Easy Threading System: Choose a machine with an easy threading system, particularly if you’re a beginner. Clear threading guides and automatic needle threading can simplify setup.
- Speed Control: Consider a sewing machine with adjustable speed control. This feature is helpful for intricate work, allowing you to slow down the machine for precise stitching.
- Quiet Operation: If possible, test the machine for noise levels. A quieter machine enhances the sewing experience, especially for extended sessions.
- Portability and Storage: Assess the machine’s weight and dimensions. If you have limited space, a compact and portable sewing machine may be more suitable for easy storage.
- User-Friendly Controls: Opt for a machine with intuitive controls. Clear labeling and user-friendly features contribute to a smoother sewing experience, especially for beginners.
- Brand Reputation and Reviews: Research the brand reputation and read user reviews. Positive feedback from other curtain makers can provide insights into the machine’s reliability and performance.
FAQs – People also ask
To further help, here are some answers to questions you may have about sew curtains.
To make curtains, you will need a Semi Industrial sewing machine. The Janome HD9 Semi Industrial Sewing machine is highly recommended for curtain makers as it offers excellent reliability and strength. This no-nonsense machine is designed for straight stitches and even includes a cutter for added convenience.
Sewing curtains is relatively easy. Despite their appearance, curtains are actually quite easy to sew. All the seams in curtains are straight, so if you can use a tape measure to calculate curtain fabric and sew in a straight line, you can make curtains successfully.
Yes, you can sew curtains by hand if you don’t have access to a sewing machine; you have enough time and are confident in your hand-sewing skills. Creating a set of double-layer curtains using hand-sewing techniques is entirely feasible.
To determine the amount of fabric required for curtains, follow a straightforward calculation. Start by multiplying the width of the track or pole by the desired fullness factor.
For example, if the pole width is 150cm and the chosen fullness is 2.5, the calculation would be 150cm x 2.5 = 375cm. Then, divide this figure by the width of the fabric, which is usually 137cm. Applying the calculation, 375cm divided by 137cm equals approximately 2.73.
The best stitch for curtains is the blind-hem stitch. This stitch is commonly used to hem curtains, trousers, skirts, and other garments.
The best fabric for curtains is 100% linen or a blend of linen and rayon. These fabrics are highly durable, resistant to wrinkling, and less prone to fading. For even better quality, consider decorator fabrics, such as those Everhem offers.
Fabric curtains typically have a lifespan of at least 10 years. However, it’s worth noting that higher-quality curtains have the potential to last even longer, while lower-quality curtains may start to show signs of wear and tear at an earlier stage.
Conclusion
Investing in a high-quality sewing machine can significantly enhance your curtain-making experience. With the right features, functionality, and versatility, you can create stunning curtains that perfectly complement your home decor.
Already, we have explored the best sewing machines for curtain projects, catering to various skill levels and requirements. From computerized machines with an array of stitch options to heavy-duty workhorses capable of handling thick fabrics, there’s a sewing machine on this list to suit every curtain-making need.
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