sewfun4jo

I make draperies for a living. As for the rod pocket at top. It will depend on the diameter of rod using. Fold a tape over and make sure to leave enough room for take up. Better to be too big than too small and tight. A wooden rod might work but remember the velvet will have some weight to them and you do not want the rod to sag. The side hems can be a double 1.5inch turn under and the bottom usually is a 3 to 4 " double hem. I do not suggest using the selvage because it makes it pucker and pull up. If you are not going to line them, then do a french pleat so looks good on both side. To make them close, I would probably have some ties out of the same fabric and sew in side seams so you can close and tie off but when open, they would be hidden down side hem on back. You need to have some weights in corner and at seams so hangs correctly. You could even put velco or even if energetic, use a separating zipper( if you can find one that long) so you can zip up at night. Just some ideas. If you have any more questions, you can email me.
jo