Curtain maker

In short

What does a curtain maker do?

A curtain maker designs and custom-makes window coverings such as curtains and blinds, working in workshops or at clients' homes.

How much does a curtain maker earn?

As an indication, a curtain maker earns between €2,400 and €3,700 gross per month in the Netherlands: starters around €2,400, experienced staff towards €3,700.

What education do you need to become a curtain maker?

In the Netherlands you usually get there through vocational education (MBO).

Career description

A curtain maker designs, measures, cuts, and sews various types of window coverings, such as curtains, blinds, and roller shutters, custom-made for clients. Accuracy, attention to detail, and manual dexterity are essential, often working in a workshop or at clients' homes for measurements and installation. The profession combines creativity with technical skills.

Salary range

Salaried: €2,400 - €3,700 (Netherlands) gross per month (varies by industry, region, and experience).

Compare salaries across careers.

Education and preparation

Education level for Curtain maker: MBO.

Focus on practical experience, internships, and specializations that fit this field.

RIASEC profile for this career

Top profile: Realistic (90%), followed by Conventional (70%).

Scores: R 90 • I 20 • A 20 • S 20 • E 50 • C 70

About the Curtain maker career

A curtain maker is a skilled craftsperson who designs, measures, cuts, and sews custom window coverings such as curtains, blinds, and roller shutters. This job combines creativity with technical expertise, requiring precision and an eye for detail to create products that fit perfectly and enhance interior spaces.

This profession suits individuals who enjoy hands-on work and have a flair for design and textiles. If you appreciate working with your hands, like solving practical problems, and take pride in creating beautiful and functional items, becoming a curtain maker could be a rewarding career choice.

A working day as a Curtain maker

A typical day for a curtain maker involves a mix of workshop and on-site activities. You might start by visiting clients’ homes or businesses to take precise measurements and discuss their preferences and requirements for window coverings. This face-to-face interaction helps you understand the style and functionality the client desires, ensuring a tailored solution.

Back in the workshop, you spend time selecting materials, cutting fabric or other components according to your measurements, and sewing or assembling the window treatments. Attention to detail is crucial as you work to ensure seams are neat and measurements are exact. You often use specialized sewing machines and tools designed for heavy or delicate fabrics.

Throughout your day, you collaborate with clients, suppliers, and sometimes interior designers or contractors. Good communication helps you coordinate delivery and installation schedules, troubleshoot any issues, and ensure customer satisfaction. The combination of solo craftsmanship and teamwork makes the work varied and engaging.

Tasks and responsibilities

• Measure windows accurately to ensure a perfect fit for curtains or blinds.
• Cut fabric and other materials precisely according to design specifications.
• Sew curtains and assemble other window coverings using sewing machines and hand tools.
• Consult with clients to understand their style preferences and functional needs.
• Install finished window treatments at clients’ locations, ensuring proper fit and operation.
• Maintain and repair existing curtains or blinds as needed.
• Manage orders, inventory, and supplier relationships to keep the workshop running smoothly.

Skills and traits

Attention to detail

Precision is key in curtain making to ensure measurements and sewing are accurate, resulting in high-quality products. Small mistakes can lead to poor fit or appearance, so being detail-oriented prevents costly errors.

Manual dexterity

You need steady hands and skillful use of tools and sewing machines to cut and stitch fabrics neatly. Good hand-eye coordination helps you work efficiently and produce fine craftsmanship.

Creativity

Designing attractive window coverings requires an eye for style, color, and texture to meet client tastes. Creativity allows you to suggest unique solutions and customize products beyond standard options.

Communication

Clear communication with clients ensures you understand their needs and manage expectations effectively. It also helps when coordinating with suppliers and installers to deliver quality service.

Problem-solving

You often encounter challenges such as unusual window shapes or fabric behavior that require practical solutions. Being able to adapt and troubleshoot keeps projects on track and clients satisfied.

Organizational skills

Managing multiple orders, materials, and deadlines demands good planning and record-keeping. Staying organized helps you maintain workflow and meet client delivery dates consistently.

Which personality fits?

Your RIASEC profile shows a strong Realistic (75%) and Artistic (70%) orientation, which fits well with the hands-on and creative nature of curtain making. You enjoy working with tangible materials and using your artistic sense to design appealing window treatments.

The Conventional (60%) and Investigative (50%) aspects suggest you also appreciate structure, accuracy, and problem-solving in your work. This balanced profile means you thrive in environments where creativity meets practical application, and you can work methodically to produce high-quality results.

Education and route

Most curtain makers enter the profession through vocational education at the MBO level, focusing on textiles, sewing, or interior decoration. This practical training teaches essential skills such as fabric handling, sewing techniques, and measurement methods.

Internships or apprenticeships are common during vocational training, providing hands-on experience in workshops or with experienced curtain makers. This real-world practice is invaluable for developing technical skills and understanding client interactions.

While there are no specific degree programs for curtain making, related courses in textiles, fashion, or interior design can be beneficial. Continuous learning and on-the-job training also help you stay updated with new materials and techniques in the field.

Pay and career progression

Your pay as a curtain maker depends on factors such as your level of experience, the sector you work in, and the region or country. For example, working in a busy urban area or for high-end clients may offer higher earnings compared to smaller markets.

Career progression can involve moving from apprentice to skilled curtain maker, and eventually to roles such as workshop manager or business owner. Some curtain makers expand their services to include interior decorating or custom upholstery, broadening their professional opportunities.

Where do you work?

Specialized curtain making workshops

These are dedicated facilities where curtain makers design and produce window treatments for various clients.

Interior design firms

Here, curtain makers collaborate with designers to create coordinated window coverings as part of larger decorating projects.

Home visits

You may work directly in clients’ homes to take measurements, provide consultations, and install finished products.

Retail stores with custom services

Some stores offer made-to-measure curtains and employ curtain makers to fulfill orders and assist customers.

Self-employed or small business settings

Many curtain makers run their own businesses, managing all aspects from design to installation independently.

Pros and cons

Pros

• You get to combine creativity with hands-on craftsmanship in your daily work.
• The job offers variety, working both in workshops and at clients’ locations.
• You can build close relationships with clients through personalized service.
• There is potential to start your own business and be your own boss.

Cons

• Work can be physically demanding, involving lifting and precise manual tasks.
• Deadlines and client demands may create pressure at times.
• Income can vary depending on market demand and location.
• You may need to handle administrative tasks if self-employed, which can be time-consuming.

The future of this career

Advances in technology are introducing new materials and tools that make curtain making more efficient and allow for innovative designs. Digital measuring devices and automated cutting machines are becoming more common, improving accuracy and speed.

Societal trends toward customized and sustainable home decor are increasing demand for personalized window treatments. This encourages curtain makers to develop new skills and adapt to changing customer preferences, keeping the profession dynamic and evolving.

Does Curtain maker suit you?

• Do you enjoy working with fabrics and textiles to create functional items?
• Are you comfortable using sewing machines and hand tools to craft detailed products?
• Do you like solving practical problems and adapting designs to fit specific spaces?
• Are you patient and attentive to detail when working on precise measurements and sewing?
• Do you enjoy interacting with clients to understand their needs and preferences?

Frequently asked questions about Curtain maker

What education do I need to become a curtain maker?

Typically, vocational education at the MBO level in textiles, sewing, or interior decoration prepares you for this career. Hands-on internships or apprenticeships during training are important to gain practical skills.

Is experience important for earning more as a curtain maker?

Yes, experience greatly influences your earning potential. Skilled curtain makers with a good reputation or those who specialize in custom or high-end products often command higher pay.

How physically demanding is the work?

Curtain making involves standing for long periods, precise manual work, and sometimes lifting heavy materials. Physical fitness and dexterity are important to manage these demands comfortably.

Can I switch to curtain making from a different career?

Career changers can enter curtain making, especially if they have sewing or crafting experience. Vocational training or apprenticeships can help you develop the necessary skills regardless of your previous background.

Do curtain makers work alone or in teams?

You may work independently in a workshop or as self-employed, but often collaborate with clients, suppliers, and occasionally interior designers. Communication and teamwork skills are valuable for coordinating projects.

What affects the workload for a curtain maker?

Workload can vary based on client demand, seasonality, and whether you are self-employed or work for a company. Planning and organization help manage busy periods effectively.

Next step

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