P4B: Simple DIY Window Coverings

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!