How to Use Printed Fabric for Curtains and Pillows

Quick answer

Use Livettes printed fabric to sew custom curtains and pillow covers by choosing the right material weight, measuring your window or pillow form, and following a simple sewing process.

Step-by-step guide

1. Measure your window or pillow form: For curtains, measure width and drop, then add 4 inches for hems and 2x the width for fullness. For pillows, measure the insert and add 1 inch seam allowance. Always measure twice before cutting fabric.
2. Order fabric and a sample: Order a sample first to check color, weight, and pattern repeat. Then buy enough yardage based on your measurements. Livettes offers samples in 25" W x 19" H. A sample prevents costly mistakes with pattern alignment or color mismatch.
3. Cut fabric with pattern alignment: Lay fabric flat, match the pattern repeat across panels, and cut with sharp shears. For large repeats, cut one panel at a time. Misaligned patterns look unprofessional – pin the layers before cutting.
4. Sew straight hems and seams: Fold and press hems 1 inch, then stitch with a straight stitch. Use a 1/2 inch seam allowance for pillow covers. Backstitch at start and end. A walking foot helps feed thick cotton drill evenly through the machine.
5. Finish with closures or linings: For pillow covers, add an envelope closure or zipper. For curtains, add a rod pocket or clip rings. Optionally line curtains for extra opacity. Skip lining if using heavy drill; use lining with the lighter flame retardant option for privacy.

Product facts

• Black Wooden Tile Design Printed Fabric: Available in Plain Flame Retardant 4.28 oz or Cotton Heavy Drill 11.5 oz, with a printed black wooden tile design. Choose the heavy drill for opaque curtains or structured pillows, and the lighter option for a softer, more translucent look.

  

• Grey Foliage Print Design Printed Fabric: Offered in Grey & White or Custom Colors, with the same two fabric material options. Custom colors let you match existing decor, while the grey foliage print adds a modern botanical touch to any room.