Learn how to make a pojagi curtain, a window hanging that looks like stained glass with the modern pojagi patchwork technique.
This modern technique has thousands of years of history. Pojagi is a traditional Korean sewing method that was used to make wrapping cloths and other personal and household items. It is often referred to also as Bojagi.
Traditional hand-sewing methods have been adapted to sewing by machine using modern fabrics that are more easily available in the west. If you’d like to hand stitch your pojagi, follow the same directions below, but stitch by hand instead of using a sewing machine.
Batik fabric is the perfect option for modern pojagi curtains and window hangings because the natural luminosity in the fabric glows like stained glass in the sunlight. Also it is reversible, easy to find, and comes in any colour you could want. You can also use organza, handkerchief linen or other lightweight cottons to make pojagi curtains.
The patchwork is reversible and seams are totally finished on both sides. There is no backing, and the technique encloses all raw edges.
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It is a perfect option anytime you want patchwork without the weight of a quilt. Besides window hangings, it is also great for table linens and wearables.
How to Stitch a Pojagi Seam
Learn the basics of stitching the reversible pojagi stitch used to make the traditional Korean pojagi window curtain.
Materials
- Batik or other reversible fabrics. Can use organza or linens, too.
- Thread
Tools
- Sewing machine
- Iron
- Ironing board
Instructions
- Lay the fabric pieces together with the edge offset by about 1/4”. Stitch 1/4” away from the edge of the inner fabric.
- Seam allowances don’t have to be exact, so don’t stress over getting an exact 1/4”. Just keep it straight and parallel to edge of the fabric.
- Fold and press: Fold the edge of the outer fabric over the shorter fabric. Press well.
- Open and press: Open the seam and press to the shorter fabric, taking care to maintain the first press. You can see that all the seam allowances are now tucked away inside.
- Stitch: Topstitch the pressed edge of the seam fold, enclosing all the raw edges.That’s it! It’s a reversible seam.
When you hold it to the light, it will look like stained glass because the seams don’t let the light through.
If you are a garment maker, you might recognize this as a flat fell seam. It is commonly used in blue jeans. Using it in patchwork will open up a whole new world of possibilities.
Notes
Learn more about the flat fell seam in our detailed article.
Recommended Products
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Have fun playing with this technique and creating your own stained glass pieces.
For more information and patterns that use this technique, check out epidastudio.com
About the author: Elizabeth DeCroos had the opportunity to learn traditional pojagi when she lived in Korea. When she returned to Canada, she adapted the technique for sewing machine and fabrics more readily available in the west. She is a designer, teacher and speaker based out of her home studio in Ontario, Canada.
Learn more about Elizabeth DeCroos and her work with her interview on Create Whimsy.
