DIY Window Coverings
Check out some simple tutorials for window shades here.
Or simply do the following to achieve drapes like the one in our nursery!
Supplies
- Fabric– (measured to the desired length-try measuring from curtain rod to floor. Make sure to add about 8-10 inches so that you have room for the rod pocket and the bottom hem)
Sewing machine & thread OR Iron & Heat n’ Bond tape - NOTE: Depending on how comfortable you are with a sewing machine, you might want to use heat n’ bond tape instead (or if you do not have a sewing machine). This can replace “sewing” a seam simply by using an iron. If you want to go that route, it will probably be right in the sewing supplies area.
- Make sure you purchase enough to hem the bottom of the curtain, top (for rod pocket), and sides if needed. Otherwise, for you sewing mamas-just make sure you have the thread you need!
Make it happen
- Cut your fabric to the length of each panel that you are going to make, plus the added legnth for sewing seams/hemming and the curtain rod pocket.
- Sew a 1/2 inch seams/hem along the sides first, then move to the bottom and do the same.
- Fold over the top part so that you make a 4-inch pocket (this should fit over most standard rods, but double check beforehand) and sew a seam along their as well.
- Iron and hang!
Money-saving tips
- I purchased our chevron fabric at Hobby Lobby and was able to save a ton of money by printing off the 40% off coupon on their website before hand (click here for the coupon-it is there all the time).
- However, you can also access it via your smartphone, no reason not to save money. Also, I would recommend buying extra if you plan on making anything else with the fabric (I made a crib skirt).
- Check out the clearance areas at big box stores, there are almost always a few curtains rods on clearance. I think that I purchased the one in the nursery for around $10 at Lowes.
And a bit more…
- A few ideas to spruce them up: add trimmings, or make some playful tie-backs. I used some leftover fabric that I had from another sewing project for our tie-backs, but it gives the curtains a “tailored” look.
Thanks for reading. Remember that DIY curtains can be a huge place to cut costs, especially for floor length ones! We spent just around $30 to make two 96″ panels! Similar store prices can cost more for just one panel!
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