Curtains Can Be Fun! - Ideas & Tips

For a fresh alternative to a traditional valance try using a tablecloth instead!

This is a 54" x 54" tablecloth folded diagonally and draped over a curtain rod. Works great for those vintage finds that have a little spot or other blemish. We hung a simple sheer panel underneath to filter the light a bit.

Are you looking for an idea to liven up a dull window? This adorable valance was made in a jiffy- by sewing one little seam across the top of several faux vintage hankies. No need to sew the hankies together- just put them on your curtain rod and squish 'em together! Too cute!

These pretty cafe curtains were actually made from woven dishtowels. To make them you will need several dishtowels which are the same on the front and back (a woven towel, not a printed one).

Simply measure the length you want them to be, and then sew your rod pockets accordingly. For example, these towels started out at 24" long, and we needed the bottom curtains to be 18" long. So, we just folded over the towel to make them 18" and then stitched a seam about 1 1/2 inches down from the fold. This creates a rod pocket, and the extra piece of fabric that was folded down now looks like an intentional ruffle! No need for cutting, and minimal sewing and measuring.

For the valance, we folded matching towels in half to create a 12" long valance. Again we stitched a 1 1/2" rod pocket, and that's all! We used 4 towels for the valance and 5 for the tiers. Just experiment to see what degree of fullness you prefer. For a no sew version you can always use fusible webbing (available in craft, discount, and fabric stores) instead of sewing.

Create the look of a Roman Shade using a panel (one long curtain).Place the panel on a rod like usual, but don't gather it- leave it extended out flat. Then, fan fold it from the bottom until it is the desired length. Attach two pieces of wide ribbon from the top and allow the panel to sag a little in the middle. Now you have a homemade shade!

This striking valance is really just a 48" runner hanging on a curtain rod. You can sew a rod pocket sleeve on the back of the runner, or, for a no sew method you can do a perform a little surgery on the runner. Just cut two little slits on the back of the runner to stick the curtain rod into. You may have to clip some of the quilting to do this, but it should be okay provided you hand wash and handle with care. Now you're got a unique window treatment with country flair!

Cafe curtains are a hot look right now! They provide privacy while still letting light into a room. They can be shirred on a "cafe" rod outside of a window or on a tension rod inside the window.

For the bottom part (the tiers) choose curtains that are one half to two thirds the length of your window. We offer tiers in 24" and 36" lengths. For the top, choose a valance, or go topless and enjoy the view of the clouds and treetops!

The general rule of thumb for curtain width is for the curtains to be twice as wide as your window. However, many people actually prefer just a little less fullness than that, which also will save you money! Today's country look is simple, not fussy. Also, keep in mind that cafe curtains are for small and medium sized windows. You curtains may sag in the middle if you use cafe curtains on a large window!

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All pillows and pillow shams have either buttons or ties for easy removal. Quilt edges have contrast piping and quits reverse to coordinating plaids or prints. Quilts are machine washable. Dry flat or line dry. Quilts are made from prewashed cotton to minimize shrinkage and to ensure that the quilt feels as good as it looks.

Each quilt is made from numerous coordinating fabrics quilted together in intricate pattens. You truly have to see and feel these quilts to fully appreciate their beauty and workmanship. Choose your favorite pattern and you'll find all the accessories you need to complete your COUNTRY BEDROOM. You won't be disappointed with a COUNTRY BEDDING QUILT from Retro Barn!