How to Make a Fabric Holdback

Draw a template from heavy paper or a manila folder to ensure all fabric pieces are cut to the same size. Make the template measure the same width as the finished holdback, or tieback, and one-half of the finished length. Cut out the template to use as a pattern.

Fold the fabric along the straight grain with wrong sides together. Place the template on the fold, and cut one piece for the holdback and one for the liner, adding one-half inch all around for seam allowance. Typical tiebacks for a single drapery panel are 18 to 24 inches long and 2 to 6 inches wide, depending on the weight of your curtain fabric. For a simple sewing project, use a firm fabric in a solid color or an overall pattern that will not require matching.

Pin the two pieces of cut fabric together with the wrong sides facing. Sew a one-half-inch seam along the top, bottom and one end, leaving one short end open for turning. Turn fabric to reveal the right side, and iron the tieback.

Fold in one-half-inch hem at the open end and sew it closed by hand. With needle and thread, attach a 1-inch-diameter bone ring to the top corner at each end of the tieback. Hang the rings on a cup hook or small nail adjacent to the window frame to hold the tieback.

Embellish the tieback with a matching fabric rosette, felt flower or applique for added interest to the front of the tieback or at the ends to cover the hanging rings.