First Time Window Treatments by Susan Woodcock

First Time Window Treatments (First Time)

by Susan Woodcock

Learning how to plan, make, and install your own beautiful curtains, drapes, shades, and other window decor may sound daunting, but with the expert, step-by-step guidance of Susan Woodcock in First Time Window Treatments, your goal is within reach.

Like having your very own sewing instructor at your side, First Time Window Treatments guides you expertly through the process, including:
  • Measuring your windows and selecting fabric
  • Fundamental techniques of cutting, seaming, hemming, and adding frills and trims
  • Making basic styles of curtains, shades, blinds, and top treatments
  • Essential tips and tools for installation
There’s a first time for everything. First Time Window Treatmentswill help you decorate your windows with your own stylish designs.

Reviewed by annieb123 on

4 of 5 stars

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Originally published on my blog: Nonstop Reader.

First Time Window Treatments is a tutorial guide aimed at beginning sewists by Susan Woodcock. Due out 6th Aug 2019 from Quarto on their Quarry imprint, it's 128 pages and will be available in paperback and ebook formats.

Window treatments are a very important part of dressing a room. It can be quite difficult to coordinate fabrics in ready-made, which are likely of limited selection at local retailers. Additionally, if the room's windows are non-standard sizes, custom fitted curtains cost a king's ransom. For DIYers, it's entirely plausible to make it oneself, in the size(s), shapes, and colors needed. It's also a great way to coordinate the soft furnishings in a room with coordinated decorative pillows, etc.

This guide presupposes zero familiarity with sewing and the introductory chapters (23% of the page content) cover tools, specialist supplies, motif matching, seams, finishes and more. The following chapters cover curtains and draperies, shades and blinds, crown treatments (valances and cornices), and installation, including hardware. There's a short glossary, resource section (aimed at readers in North America), and an index.

The photography is clear and the step-by-step tutorial instructions are easy to follow. With this book in hand, a keen beginner could produce a simple window treatment (see cover photograph) without mishap.

Four stars.

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

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