DIY Curtains—Grommets

I was super psyched last week when I actually not only learned how to sew, but I successfully sewed my first pair of curtain panels— you can read about it here.  I really wanted grommet curtains and after some online research I learned that I wouldn't need a grommet tool or a lot of money to achieve the look.

But, in case I failed, I did consider other styles that don't require cutting the panels.

Rod-pocket curtains are made with a casing (a hole in the hem) that you can slip the curtain rod through.  No cutting, no sewing!

via outdoordrapes.com

I was also familiar with the ring-top curtains which are hung on curtains rings that are attached to the panels.   Once again this option is sewing-free!

via houzz.com

Ring-top and rod-pocket are nice, but they're not the look I'm going for in the living room.  Here's how I made grommet curtains.

Note:   Remember, you need at least a 4" wide top hem for grommet curtains.  My curtain panels, once completely sewn, are 42" wide so I used 6 grommets spacing them every 4 3/4".  

Step 1: For the first grommet measure at least 1" from the side hem, and 1 1/2" from the top of the hem.  Use the design tool included in the grommet kit to draw a perfect circle.  TIP: Use a pencil as a pen could bleed to a visible area of the fabric.

Step 2: Cut the circle you just drew with a pair of really good scissors.  

Step 3:  Insert the toothless grommet underneath the panel and work the opening around the grommet rim.

Step 4: Press the grommet together—you should hear a clicking noise.  And that's it!  You just completed your first grommet!

Step 5: Place a grommet over the design tool.  With a measuring tape place the design tool and grommet in your previously calculated distance—  for my panels it was 4 3/7".  Once in the desired location, place the grommet at 1 1/2" from the top of your 4" hem.   Remove the grommet and draw your circle.  Repeat steps 2, 3, and 4.

And that's how you get beautiful grommet curtains!

Dollars and Cents: 
I bought one grommet package every day in order to take advantage of JoAnn's 50% off coupons— it seems like the only way to get a deal in that store!

A package of 8 grommets sells for $12.99, with my 50% off coupon I purchased 5 packages for $35.