No-Sew Pop-Up Camper Curtains: A Quick Diy Guide

Pop-up campers are a great way to travel and explore the world. However, they can be a little outdated, and a fun way to modernise them is by making new curtains. This can be done by sewing new curtains or, if you don't have the skills or equipment for that, by making no-sew curtains. No-sew curtains can be made by measuring and cutting your fabric, hemming each end with seaming tape, and gluing the hooks from the old curtains to the new ones. This is a simple, cost-effective way to modernise your pop-up camper.

Choosing the right fabric

• Weight: Lightweight fabrics are easier to work with and will be lighter in your camper. However, heavier fabrics can provide more privacy and better light-blocking capabilities. Consider the weight of the fabric and how it will affect the overall weight of your curtains, especially if you plan on leaving them up when you close your camper.
• Colour and Pattern: Choose a colour and pattern that complements the overall style of your camper. You may want to select a fabric with a fun pattern to add a pop of colour and interest to your space.
• Material: The material of the fabric is important to consider. Look for something durable and easy to care for. Cotton, polyester, and linen blends are all good options. Keep in mind that some fabrics may be more prone to wrinkling, so consider the option that best suits your needs.
• Light Blocking: If you want your curtains to block out light, look for fabrics with a tighter weave or consider adding a blackout liner. This can be especially useful if you plan on sleeping in late or want more privacy at night.
• Washability: Curtains can get dusty and dirty, so it's important to choose a fabric that is washable. Consider the care instructions for the fabric and whether you can easily wash and maintain your curtains.
• Price: Fabric can vary widely in price, so consider your budget when making your selection. Compare prices at different stores or online to find the best deal.
• Amount: Determine how much fabric you will need based on the size of your windows and the number of curtains you plan to make. Measure twice to ensure you have enough fabric, and don't forget to allow for hems and any pattern matching you may want to do.

Measuring and cutting

First, you will need to measure the windows in your camper. Measure the length and width of each window, adding a few inches to each measurement to allow for hems and errors. It is better to have too much fabric than too little.

Next, decide on the style of your curtains. Will they be straight panels, or will you add a valance? If you are adding a valance, you will need to measure the length of the track that the valance will attach to.

Now it is time to cut your fabric. Using sharp scissors, cut your fabric to the measurements you have taken, adding a few inches to each panel to allow for hems. If you are using a pattern, ensure that the pattern is level and that you are happy with how the panels will look together.

If you are adding a valance, cut the fabric for this now, again allowing for hems. You may wish to cut the valance fabric slightly longer than your measurements to create a gathered effect.

Once you have cut your fabric, it is a good idea to wash and iron it before proceeding to the next steps.

Attaching curtain hooks

Step 1: Remove Old Curtain Hooks

Firstly, carefully remove the existing curtain hooks from the old curtains. This can be done by gently prying them off with a flat-head screwdriver or a similar tool. Make sure to keep these hooks as they will be reused. Pop-up campers usually have specific hook types, so reusing the old ones is the most cost-effective and straightforward option.

Step 2: Measure and Mark the Fabric

Before attaching the hooks to your new curtains, it is essential to measure and mark the fabric to ensure accurate placement of the hooks. Measure the desired distance between each hook and mark the spots on the fabric with a fabric marker or tailor's chalk. This measurement will depend on the number of hooks you have and the length of your fabric.

Step 3: Choose an Adhesive

You have several options for attaching the hooks to your fabric. One popular method is to use hot glue or a strong adhesive of your choice. Alternatively, you can opt for industrial-strength adhesive velcro, which provides a sturdy bond and allows for easy removal of the curtains for washing. If you choose the velcro route, make sure to get the type that is sewn onto the fabric rather than the adhesive kind, as the latter can damage your sewing machine.

Step 4: Attach the Hooks

Now, it's time to attach the hooks to the fabric. If using glue, apply a small amount to the back of each hook and firmly press it onto the marked spots on the fabric. Hold it in place for a few seconds to ensure a strong bond. If using velcro, sew one side of the velcro onto the fabric and attach the corresponding side to the hooks.

Step 5: Measure Spacing (Optional)

If you want to ensure even spacing between the hooks, you can measure the distance between them. You can use the measurements from the old curtains as a guide or divide the length of your fabric by the number of hooks you have. This step will give your curtains a neat and uniform appearance.

Step 6: Allow Adhesive to Dry

If you used an adhesive to attach the hooks, make sure to let it dry completely before handling the curtains or hanging them up. This will ensure that the hooks are securely attached and prevent any accidental damage.

Step 7: Hang Your New Curtains

Once the adhesive is dry, your new no-sew curtains are ready to be hung in your pop-up camper! Simply slide the hooks into the existing track or rod, and your curtains should be securely in place. Enjoy your newly refreshed pop-up camper space!

Hanging the curtains

Attaching the Hooks

There are several ways to attach the hooks to your curtains. One option is to use hot glue or another adhesive to glue the hooks to the back of the curtains. You can measure the spacing of the hooks on the old curtains and replicate this on the new curtains, or you can divide the number of hooks by the length of the fabric to space them evenly.

If you are using the original curtain hooks, you can also sew them onto the fabric. You can do this by hand or with a machine, but be aware that sewing through the plastic tabs can be challenging and may break your needles. If you are using a machine, try using a heavy-duty needle to reduce the risk of breakage. You can also try drilling small holes in the tabs to make it easier for your needle to pass through.

Another option is to use drapery rings or curtain carriers, which can be sewn onto the back of the curtain panels. These can be purchased from craft or fabric stores, or you may be able to find them online. If you are using drapery rings, you can attach them to the original curtain hooks using adhesive or glue.

Once the hooks or rings are attached, you are ready to hang your curtains. If your pop-up camper has a curtain track, simply slide the hooks or rings into the track. If there is no track, you can hang the curtains using a rod or by attaching them directly to the window frame or camper body.

If using a rod, you can mount it across the top of the window using adhesive, hooks, or mounting hardware. You can then hang the curtains by sliding them onto the rod or by using curtain ring clips.

If attaching the curtains directly to the window frame or camper body, you can use adhesive or glue to attach the hooks or magnets to the desired location. Alternatively, you can sew the curtains onto the headliner or use magnets or velcro to attach them to the window frame.

Tips for Hanging Curtains

• If your windows tilt outwards, you may need to take extra steps to ensure the curtains do not hang straight down and get in the way. You can use velcro tabs, magnets, or additional rods to hold the curtains against the side of the camper.
• If you are reusing the original curtain hooks, make sure to remove them from the old curtains before attaching them to the new ones.
• Label your curtains and take pictures during the removal process to make installation easier.
• Press the seams of your curtains for a more professional look.

Finishing touches

Choosing the Right Fabric

The type of fabric you use for your curtains will depend on your personal preference and budget. If you want to block out light, consider using blackout fabric. This can be attached to your chosen curtain fabric or bought as a single piece of fabric. If you're on a budget, consider using bedsheets or shower curtains instead.

Attaching the Curtains

There are several ways to attach your curtains to the pop-up camper. You can use adhesive or sew-on velcro, Airstream drape carriers, drapery rings, or the original plastic tabs. If you want to avoid sewing, you can use an iron-on adhesive for the hems and velcro for attachment.

Storage

If you want to be able to remove your curtains for washing, you'll need to consider where you'll store them when not in use. You can slide them under the mattress or use a tension rod to hang them when they're not covering the windows.

Condensation

If your curtains are constantly damp from condensation, keep an eye out for mould or mildew. Consider removing and cleaning them regularly to prevent this.

Frequently asked questions