How To Make No-Sew Curtains On A Budget
By Brett Michael
There are quick and easy sewing alternatives that you can use to make your own curtains. All you need is some imagination, a source to buy the raw fabric (such as a fabric warehouse in your area) and a few tools and accessories to turn your vision into a designer's reality.
For the completely no-sew approach, you can use objects such as bracelets, rubber bands and rope to create puffing effects at certain points depending on the style. But, the question about how to finish the hems is one that cannot be ignored.
One inexpensive method is to use fusing tape that works wonders with an iron. All you need to do is fold the material over the edge and press the iron for a few minutes to achieve a perfect hem. Another method is to use a glue gun. It is very easy to do, but is not the smoothest. It can also get messy. But, it is quick and fun!
A typical window panel from rod to floor is 84 inches. When you buy your fabric at a warehouse, it will come in the form of a bolt with enough fabric to do the number of desired windows (speak with a representative to ensure you buy the amount you need).
Cut the fabric from the roll at the 90 inches point. The width of a bolt is already the measurement of a panel's width. The easiest thing to do is to place the bolt on the floor and kick it so it rolls to the desired length. Measure 90 inches with a measuring tape, cut, and repeat until you have the number of panels.
Then sit on the floor and squeeze a ten-inch straight line from the glue about an inch in from the edge of the panel's side. Quickly fold one inch of the fabric over and press. If you wait too long, the glue will cool and harden. If you mess up, the glue can easily be pulled off in one piece like scotch tape. Be sure to do the same to all remaining sides of the panel.
To create the loop for the rod (the cheapest rod is a wooden dowel from a major home center. You can always paint it and place finials on the ends), make your glue line at the four inch mark, fold the fabric over about four inches and press.
For shorter curtains, measure the length and follow the same steps. You can always embellish the curtain panel by gluing fringe to the ends or sides. For added drama, use rope tiebacks with tassels. Let your imagination run wild. Once you have the panel made, the decoration possibilities are endless.
Do your research by watching the design shows on TV and flipping through design magazines and books at the library. You can also search online for images of curtains. Getting the panel made cheaply is the hard part - not to make it, but to decide on what color and to actually do it. At such a discounted price, the effort is worth it.
You can also use left over fabric to achieve coordinating effects throughout the room. For example, covering your dining room chairs or making slipcovers for chairs and ottomans. A little effort will go a long way. In no time at all you can turn a tired looking room into a showcase on a budget.
If you are doing a valance, measure double the length going across to allow for the folds. If you use the exact length of the window, the effect will be completely straight and flat without folds.
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