30/09/2026
One of my pet hates is seeing seam allowances — even when they’ve been overlocked. It might be on the back of a curtain, but I think something as small as the little bag that holds the strings from the heading tape deserves to be made just as beautifully as the rest of the curtain.
So, here's my concealed seam version. It doesn’t even have a hem at the top so it’s really neat and super easy to make. Here's how 👇
You’ll need a piece of fabric measuring 42 centimetres long by 9 centimetres wide. Divide it into four sections: the two central sections should be 9 centimetres each, and the two end sections should be 10 centimetres each.
You can, of course, vary these sizes to whatever you prefer, just ensure the two end sections are each 1cm bigger. That extra centimetre at each end creates a little flap that will eventually tuck underneath the heading tape and be stitched into place.
1.) Fold the fabric in half, with right sides facing outwards, and fold up the two end sections on both the front and back.
2.) Machine-stitch down each side.
3.) Snip off the corners at the double folded end, at roughly 45 degrees, then turn the bag right side out.
When you look inside, you’ll see that all the seam allowances are completely concealed.
4.) Give it a press if you like, then tuck the little flap at the top underneath the edge of the heading tape.
And that’s it!
Gather up the tape, knot the strings, and tuck them neatly inside the little bag.
A tiny detail, perhaps — but I think these are the details that make curtains truly bespoke.
© Justine Bennett | Windmill Curtain Room | Sept 2026
