Store-bought curtains rarely fit perfectly. Iron-on hem tape lets you shorten them or add trim in minutes, with no sewing skills required.
Why this works
Hem tape bonds fabric with heat and pressure. It holds well through gentle washing, and it makes an easy fix for a standard-length panel.
What you’ll need
Materials at a glance: Curtain panels; Iron-on hem tape; Iron and ironing board; Measuring tape; Fabric chalk. Plan on about 1 hr and a budget of under $30. The full materials list and numbered steps are in the project card below.
How to do it
Measure the length you want and fold the hem up, press it flat, and slide hem tape between the layers. Press with a hot iron according to the tape instructions and let it cool before hanging.
Styling tips
- Test the tape on a scrap first.
- Steam the panels after hanging to relax the folds.
- Choose hem tape suitable for your fabric weight.
A No-Sew Curtain Upgrade With Fabric Tape
Hem, shorten, or customize curtains without a sewing machine using iron-on tape.
Materials
- Curtain panels
- Iron-on hem tape
- Iron and ironing board
- Measuring tape
- Fabric chalk
Steps
- Hang the panel to check the length and mark the hem with chalk.
- Fold the hem up and press it flat.
- Place hem tape between the layers along the fold.
- Press with a hot iron, following the tape directions.
- Let it cool and rehang the curtains.