Camper Curtains: No-Sew, Easy Diy Project

Camper curtains are a great way to add a homely feel and extra warmth and privacy to your campervan. If you're looking to make your own no-sew curtains, there are a few different methods you can try. One option is to use adhesive tape, such as No-Sew Heat 'n Bond, to create hems and attach the curtains to a rod. Another method is to use tablecloths as curtains and attach them to a rod with clippable curtain hooks. You can also try using velcro or magnets to attach fabric to your window frame or vehicle headliner. Whichever method you choose, making your own no-sew camper curtains is a straightforward and budget-friendly way to improve the look and feel of your camper.

Choosing the right material

When making no-sew camper curtains, choosing the right material is essential. Here are some factors to consider when selecting your fabric:

Price and Availability:

Fabric can range from very affordable to quite expensive, depending on the type and quality. Buying fabric by the yard, repurposing sheets, or purchasing premade curtains to cut to size are all options. You can find bargain deals at local stores or online, with some fabrics costing as little as $10 per metre.

Durability and Functionality:

Consider the weight and durability of the fabric. If you're looking for blackout curtains, a thick, opaque material like blackout fabric or a dark-coloured Turkish towel will keep out light and heat. For a more lightweight and breathable option, cotton or linen are excellent choices. Think about the purpose of your curtains and whether you need climate control, privacy, or both.

Aesthetic Appeal:

The right fabric can enhance the aesthetic of your camper. Choose a colour and pattern that complement your style and the overall atmosphere you want to create. If you're going for a rustic or industrial look, canvas or cotton fabrics are ideal. You can also opt for versatile materials like cotton or linen, which come in various colours and patterns, making them easy to work with and customise.

Ease of Use:

Some fabrics are easier to work with than others. For no-sew curtains, look for materials that don't fray easily and can be cut and manipulated without the need for sewing. Also, consider the weight of the fabric and the mounting method you plan to use. Heavy fabrics may not work well with certain adhesive mounting options.

Maintenance:

Choose a fabric that is easy to maintain and care for. Consider the cleaning and washing requirements of the material. Some fabrics may require special care, so it's essential to check the care instructions on the label. Opting for a machine-washable fabric will make your life easier.

Pattern and Symmetry:

If you're using patterned fabric, ensure that the pattern is level when cutting your pieces. Check that the fabric pieces you cut will look good together when lined up in the windows, creating a continuous or symmetrical pattern from window to window.

Remember to wash and iron your fabric before cutting to avoid any shrinkage or creases later on.

Measuring the curtains

Step 1: Measure the Windows

Use a measuring tape to determine the dimensions of the windows you want to cover with curtains. Measure the length and width of each window, including the depth on either side, especially if you have curved curtain rods. It's important to measure twice to ensure accuracy and avoid mistakes.

Step 2: Determine Curtain Panel Count

Decide if you want one or two panels per window. For a fuller look, go for two panels. Divide the total window width by the number of panels to get the width of each panel. Remember to account for any curves in your curtain rods when calculating the width.

Step 3: Add Extra Fabric for Hems and Rod Pocket

When measuring the fabric for your curtains, be sure to add some extra fabric to allow for hems and the curtain rod pocket. For the length, add about 5 inches to accommodate the top and bottom hems and the rod pocket. For the width, add about an inch on each side to create 1-inch hems. This will ensure a neat finish.

Step 4: Account for Fabric Pattern

If your fabric has a pattern, consider how you want it to align when the curtains are closed. Try to line up the pattern as best you can before cutting the fabric. This is especially important if you have two panels next to each other, as you'll want the pattern to meet in the middle.

Step 5: Choose the Right Fabric Amount

When purchasing your fabric, opt for a tablecloth that is at least twice the width of your window. This will ensure a gathered, full look when the curtains are closed. You can also use other materials like sheets or paint drop cloths, but make sure they are wide enough to cover the desired area.

Step 6: Consider Your Desired Length

Determine how long you want your curtains to be. Do you want them to puddle on the floor or hit just above it? Measure from the curtain rod or the desired starting point to the desired length. This will impact the amount of fabric you need and how much extra length you should allow for hems and the rod pocket.

Step 7: Measure for Curtain Rods

If you're using existing curtain rods, measure their length to choose the right size for your new curtains. If you're purchasing new rods, decide on the placement first and then measure the distance to get the correct rod length. Remember to choose lightweight rods that won't weigh down your curtains.

Step 8: Plan for Hardware and Accessories

Consider the hardware and accessories you'll be using, such as curtain rings, clips, or hooks. Measure and mark the placement of these accessories on the curtain rod and fabric to ensure proper placement. This will impact the overall look and functionality of your curtains.

Step 9: Take Final Measurements

Before cutting your fabric, re-measure everything to ensure accuracy. Double-check the window dimensions, fabric width and length, and placement of any accessories. This will help you avoid mistakes and ensure a precise fit for your no-sew camper curtains.

Attaching the curtains

If your camper windows tilt outwards at the bottom, you will need to devise a way to keep the curtains from hanging straight down into your living space. One way to do this is to use a makeshift rod to hold the curtains taut against the vehicle's side. You could also use magnets sewn into the bottom hem of the curtain, which will be attracted to the bottom window frame screws and hold the curtain against the side of the vehicle.

If you are using a rod, you will need to decide how to mount it. You could drill new holes into your camper's structure, but this is not recommended. Instead, you could use the existing screws at the top corners of your window frames to add rod mounting hardware. If your curtain rod needs to stretch a wide expanse, you may also need to mount hardware in the middle of the window for extra support.

Another option is to attach the curtains directly to the window frame or vehicle headliner using velcro or magnets. If you opt for velcro, it is recommended to sew it on rather than using adhesive, as this will create a stronger bond and allow the curtains to be washed. If you are using adhesive, be sure to buy industrial-strength and use lightweight fabric.

If you are using a rod, you will also need to decide how to attach the curtains to the rod. You could use curtain ring clips, which can be clipped to the fabric and then slid onto the rod. This method also helps the curtains to slide more readily and fixes the problem of the curtain hanging too low. Alternatively, you can create a tunnel at the top of the curtain to slip the rod through.

Using adhesive

Making no-sew curtains for your camper is a simple and cost-effective way to refresh your camper's interior. There are a few different ways to approach this project, depending on your preferences and the specific requirements of your camper windows. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make no-sew camper curtains using adhesive:

Step 1: Planning and Measuring

Before you start, it's important to plan and measure each window in your camper. Consider the following:

• Curtain Fabric Plan: Decide on the style and shape of your curtains. For example, you might choose to make long rectangular curtains or curtains that follow the trapezoid shape of your windows.
• Curtain Mounting Plan: Determine how you will mount your curtains. Consider using adhesive velcro, especially if you don't want to drill into your camper shell.
• Curtain Hold-Back Plan: Check for any existing magnetic surfaces on your window frames, such as screw heads, which can be used to hold back the curtains.

Once you have a plan in place, take measurements for each window, including the width and length of the fabric needed to cover the glass and frame. Don't forget to add a few extra inches to your measurements to allow for hems and curtain rod pockets.

Step 2: Choosing and Preparing Fabric

Select a fabric that suits your style and the functionality you want. Consider factors such as weight, pattern, and whether you need blackout fabric for privacy and better sleep.

If you plan to use adhesive velcro, opt for lightweight fabric. Heavier fabrics may not adhere well and can pull on your camper's headliner.

When cutting your fabric, ensure that the pattern is lined up correctly, especially if you have multiple panels that will sit next to each other.

Step 3: Creating Hems with Adhesive

To create hems without sewing, you can use fabric tape or iron-on adhesive. Here's how:

• Fabric Tape Hemming: Measure and mark your desired curtain length. Cut the fabric tape to match the width of your desired hem. Fold the curtain to the desired length, sandwiching the fabric tape between the folds. Use a warm iron to press over the tape, activating the adhesive.
• Iron-On Hemming: Measure and mark your desired curtain length. Cut the iron-on adhesive to the width of your curtain hem. Fold the curtain to your marked length and place the adhesive strip inside the fold. Use a hot iron to press and melt the adhesive, bonding the fabric together.

Step 4: Attaching Curtains with Adhesive

After creating your hems, it's time to attach your curtains to the camper. If you're using adhesive velcro:

• Window Frame Preparation: Clean and prepare the window frame surface. Ensure the velcro adheres well by testing it on a small area first.
• Attaching Velcro: Attach the loop/fuzzy side of the velcro to the window frame. Use industrial-strength adhesive velcro and try to use one continuous piece for a stronger bond.
• Curtain Preparation: Attach the scratchy side of the velcro to the curtain, about 1/2 inch down from the top. This will create a cleaner look by covering the frame once the curtain is mounted.
• Hanging Curtains: Temporarily hang the curtains to check the fit and make any necessary adjustments.

Step 5: Finalizing with Magnetic Hold-Backs (Optional)

If you plan to use magnetic hold-backs, such as bar-shaped rare earth magnets, follow these steps:

• Measuring and Marking: Once your curtains are temporarily hung, measure and mark the exact curtain length, ensuring the bottom hem lines up with the bottom window frame.
• Sewing Magnets: Pin up the bottom hem and use paper clips or clothespins to mark where magnets need to be sewn to align with magnetic surfaces on the window frame. Sew the magnets in place, ensuring they are secure and can't slide around.

Now you have a complete set of no-sew camper curtains that look great and provide the functionality you need!

Hanging the curtains

If you have opted for a rod-based curtain, you will need to decide how to mount the rod. It is recommended that you do not drill new holes into your campervan. Instead, you can use the existing screws at the top corners of your window frames to add rod mounting hardware. If your window is angular, this may not be suitable, as the curtains may not cover all the glass. In this case, you could use adhesive velcro or clear command hooks to attach the rod to the window frame.

If your windows tilt outwards, you will need to find a way to keep the curtains from hanging straight down into your living space. One option is to use curtain ring clips to attach the curtain to the rod. Pinch the back of the fabric about two inches from the top and clip, both hiding the clip and raising the top of the fabric to cover the window frame.

If you are using adhesive velcro, be sure to buy industrial-strength adhesive and opt for lightweight fabric. You can also use fabric fuse instead of sewing hems.

If you are using command hooks, clean the area with alcohol and a microfiber cloth before attaching the hooks. Press firmly for 10 seconds, then slide the hooks up to remove from the base attachment. Press the base into the wall for 30 seconds, then reattach the hooks and let them sit for about an hour before hanging the curtains.

If you are using magnets, sew them into the hem of your curtain. You can then attach the curtains to the window frame screw heads or use adhesive magnets.

If you are using a wire and clips, you will need to insert a hook into the curtain cord and place it around a screw in your campervan. Pull the cord tight and towards the screw on the opposite side, then snip the cord, place a screw into the other side, and clip the line in place. Repeat this process for each curtain.

Frequently asked questions