How to shorten room darkening drapes?

Hi Michelle,

You could remove the hem and re-hem them to the right length you want with either a needle and thread by hand or on the sewing machine if you sew.

Not sure if you can use and ironable product like Stitch Witchery, it would depend on the fabric of the drapes. Take a look at the manufacturers label on your thermals and see what they are made of and if it tolerate heat.

Another way would be to raise the curtain rod, this is a bit more daunting of a task.

What we did with our thermal drapes (84') is to just leave them alone, yes they touch the floor and it a a good effect for us, it creates a bit more coverage when needed,especially if there are any drafts, cold pockets, or hot spots...we have the drape there to handle it.

Sure, room darkening curtains can be hemmed quite easily by anyone who has ever done basic hemming of another item, such as a skirt. It is the same process, but due to the weight and backing of the insulating fabric, the excess length will first need to be cut off, making a narrow hem, before being hemmed by machine.

Attempting this by hand will not be effective, as only a presser foot will be able to keep the fabric tight enough to result in even stitches needed for the hem to lay flat. Do not use Stitch Witchery, as the thermal backing will melt with the heat of the iron.

Thank you. I was worried about everything you mentioned.

If the top of the drapes has a basic fold over for the rod to slide thru, I think it would be easier to cut the top, then fold over and sew for the rod. Much easier than re-hemming.

You can always break out the hot glue gun, create a new hemline without all the fuss!