Window treatments are weirdly expensive, aren’t they? Like, how are those curtains HUNDREDS OF DOLLARS???
Thankfully, we have Liz to helps us DIY window treatments that won’t break the bank. And Liz is an ASID professional designer so you know she knows what’s up!
Hello, friends! I’m back this month to talk about an aspect of design that often makes me a little batty… window treatments.
Exquisitely detailed custom silk draperies make my heart swell when they’re done right, but the cost associated makes my eye twitch.
Most of my clients aren’t in their “forever homes,” so I feel like it’s a disservice to use a big chunk of the budget on expensive window treatments that likely won’t work in their next place. But, most off-the-shelf drapery panels leave a little to be desired. So I’m here to discuss some the land of the middle.
Before I get into the details, I have one demand: just say “no” to heavy, swagged, multi-layer draperies that are out of place anywhere other than a legit mansion. Simplicity goes a long way when it comes to window treatments.
Start by thinking about what sort of fabric you want to use. If going the ready-made route, stay away from faux satins and silks since they tend to look cheap. Cotton blends are my favorite.
If you need to blackout or insulation properties but are gasping at the cost of lined drapes, order some Roc-Lon instead and add it behind your panels.
If going the DIY route and sewing isn’t your bag, source wide fabrics with pre-finished edges. Sheets, drop cloths, table cloths, duvet covers, and burlap are all great options when finished out with lining. Drapery clip rings are the quickest way of securing the fabric to the rod.
Most bathroom, kitchen, or windows with a sill high off the ground can get a shade. Skip the mini blinds and go for a bamboo stick-shade or roman fabric shade. There isn’t much of a cost difference if you get them from the right place. Cough cough, IKEA, cough. Or, you could craft a faux shade out of any piece of cloth… placemat, scarf, pillowcase, or your old Coachella shirt.
If you’re working with a series of windows, consider using long rods and individual panels for each window. Again, it will make your ceilings look taller!
And there you have it! I’m happy to answer window treatment questions in the comments.
P.S. How to fill your home with cheap, beautiful things from thrift stores
The way you put the drapes up so high looks awesome. A lot of people suggest getting shorter drapes. We are trying to do window coverings that make our living room look fashionable. I think trying to do this really tall drapes style thing will add a lot of character to the room! Thanks for the cool ideas on window coverings!
Beautiful- appreciate you posting.
I live in a small apartment where the kitchen and living area are basically one room. There is a valance that runs the entire length of the wall. I don’t like the valance. I thought of taking it down, doing long curtains on the living room/open patio doors in the living area but I don’t know what to do with the small kitchen window at the other end.
This looks really beautiful. Looks as if professionally made. Thanks for suggesting the idea. Will try to implement it.