Budget-friendly window treatments ~
Fresh window treatments or coverings are a wonderfully easy way to give any room a facelift. The multiple layers of draperies or the costs of custom window treatments can be daunting and discouraging, however, there are many clever ways to create and customize window treatments and coverings for a home, all budget-friendly and many not even requiring sewing.
Creative curtain rods
The popularity of tab-top and tie-top curtains has made the curtain rod, formerly hidden behind folds of fabric, a focal point of the entire window treatment. Decorative curtain rods featuring fancy and ornate finials on each end can be quite pricey but a little creativity and a few inexpensive supplies can be put together to make some unique and decorative curtain rods that exude personality while not breaking the bank.
One of the simplest curtain rods begins with a basic dowel of suitable thickness to hold the curtains. Add a wooden ball on each end and decorate as desired. A fairly straight tree branch can make an excellent curtain rod; paint the branch with a color or a wood stain then hang the curtains and enjoy the rustic charm. Even contemporary décor can take advantage of creative curtain rods. A piece of galvanized piping, two red boiled valves and two floor flanges come together to make an inventive and attractive curtain rod with an industrial vibe. Curtain can be tied on or steel clamps may be used as curtain rings.
Refresh current window treatments
For the tightest budgets, purchasing new window treatments may be out of the question. In this case, altering existing curtains or blinds may be the best option. Curtains and draperies can be easily altered, making longer drapes shorter or chopping a set of curtains down into valences and tie backs. Vertical blinds, often found covering patio doors, can be freshened up with a coat of paint. Taking two shades of the same color, such as a dark and light shade of tan, can be painted on the blinds, alternating between colors. This is a quick and inexpensive way to perk up these large window treatments.
DIY window style on a budget
Creating original window treatments can be as simple as taking items from the room, for example the kitchen, and using them to cover or frame the windows. Colorful napkins, dishtowels, and even cloth placemats may be used to make charming kitchen curtains. Trims may be added to the edges if desired and adhesive tapes and fusible webbing make sewing itself completely optional.
A wide variety of no-sew window treatments can be made on a budget. Dresser scarves and tablecloths may be draped over rods to form attractive valence-like treatments. Fabric shower curtain can make excellent curtains, particularly for a bedroom; solid and patterned bed sheets are also inexpensive sources of curtain material. Accents such as tie backs can be sourced from many areas. An attractive and unique tie back may be made from old costume jewelry; a wide variety of pieces can be found at most flea markets and estate sales.
While new shutters can make a great covering for windows, DIY window shutters add interest to the room as they cover the window. Cabinet doors, fireplace screens, and refurbished old shutters may all be used.
Ohhhhh I love this idea ~ I just might need to try it!
Great idea and very easy to do!! Thanks for sharing!
I just love the pattern on those window treatments, very retro chic!
Very clever. I making a note out of it as we starting to look at houses
I would love to work on some DIY shutters! Joann’s is my favorite place to grab beautiful, interesting fabric and I always get some inspiration while browsing around. Also thrift stores because I can always find cool vintage items! I never thought of using jewelry as a part of decorating…great idea!
I love these! I once made no sew window treatments with burlap. These are much better!
Those sound really cool, too!
Dawn
Great tips! I would love some new window treatments (as I sit here looking at my old blinds that are thisclose to being thrown away)
I have some blinds that have seen better days, too!
Dawn
what a great creative idea!
I really need to update our look. I am hoping to do some DIY curtains sometime this year!
I love this idea. I have been wanting to redo our family room window coverings.
You’re right, using a simple tie-back makes a huge difference and even lets in additional light! Score!
Love your ideas, I really want to work on a new look for our living room window.
This is awesome! That’s for sharing 🙂
and I was just looking at my curtains and coming up with ideas for a change!
Simple toppers are always a definite hit but these ideas are cool!
Perfect timing, I am getting ready to create my window treatments. I will be borrowing a couple of these ideas (unless my husband asks) he does not think I can do it. I am not the most creative person!
Sure you can do it!!! You got this!
Dawn
That’s awesome! I’ll be keeping these tips in mind.
some good ideas (and some I’ve used already) that can “freshen up” a room without spending an arm or a leg. Thanks for sharing and giving me the push to try doing another room “makeover” this spring.
I was seriously just considering (again!) revamping my window treatments in my dining room. Great timing.
Lots of great ideas. For a formal room, I would stick to blinds but for more casual rooms I’d let my creativity run wild.
I was just thinking about doing a little makeover! Thanks for the tips!
I’ve made my own tie backs several times using cute beaded bracelets. Adds a nice touch of bling.
THey look very professional for being DIY – I need to try!
Thanks for the ideas. I was looking for window treatment ideas!!
I LOVE any DIY project that saves money and makes things more personal!! Thanks for sharing!!
Great ideas! I never thought about towels or scarves for curtains, but it sounds really good. Unique and inexpensive, they’d add drama.