Jun
2
2009
A couple of weeks ago I embarked on a little DIY drapery project. The windows in my apartment only had solar shades covering them for the longest time and I’d been wanting to soften them up with some fabulous draperies. If I could have things my way I would have had custom draperies made using Suzanne Rheinstein for Lee Jofa’s Ikat De Lin, but given how many yards I would have needed that would have far exceeded my budget so I decided to make my own!
My friend Robert gave me this sewing machine as a gift a while back and I had been dying to use it. I hadn’t sewed since I was little so I wanted a small project to help me get back into the swing of things and these DIY draperies were perfect!
I bought a couple packs of inexpensive AINA linen drapery panels from Ikea and a gazillion yards of reasonably priced greek key trim from Calico Corners in a bluish color called Mist.
I also bought two inexpensive aged brass curtain rods from Home Depot along with matching rings and these pin-on drapery hooks. The rings and the hooks have such a big impact on the finished product and are the secret to achieving a high-end look.
Next I sewed the trim down the entire length of the panels on each end. I was a little afraid I’d mess up at first, but it was like riding a bike! The panels were a bit long so I also had to hem the bottom so they fell at the perfect length…just at the floor.
I then attached my drapery hooks to the backs of each panel. I also removed the clips from the drapery rings. (I always think draperies look much more polished with the clips removed.) Next I looped the rings through the rods, hung the rods, then attached the panels to each ring with the drapery hooks.
And voila! Simple, custom made draperies with a high-end look for less! Hanging the panels on rings made all the difference in the world. Had I inserted the rod through the pockets on the draperies, they wouldn’t have looked the same.
Here’s a closer look.
Tags: DIY, Nicole's Apartment
Jun 02, 2009
Nice job! They look great. I recently took on making romans..So much fun sewing in all those little rings ;} but I was so proud of myself when it was done. I’m sure you feel the same..
Jun 02, 2009
You’ve inspired me! I love the Greek Key & actually purchased some trim last year that I have never used. It’s time…
Great, great job.
Jun 02, 2009
Wow I am impressed. They look great!
Jun 02, 2009
Gorgeous. Love the trim on the outside edge, too.
Jun 02, 2009
This looks great! I love the simple clean look with the greek key pattern, also the color combo! Righteous!
Leslie
lamaisonfoublog
Jun 02, 2009
Wow – this is amazing Nicole! You did a great job. I have similar Greek key curtains in my own living room but I wasn’t clever enough to make them on my own.
Jun 03, 2009
These are so beautiful- I just love the greek key trim you picked, they look custom made,
Jun 03, 2009
Wow… those drapes pop off your matching wall color. Fabulous!!
Jun 03, 2009
Thanks so much everyone for all of your kind words and feedback! I really appreciate it!! xoxo
Nicole
Jun 05, 2009
Love the trim. The curtains look great!
Jun 19, 2009
Love that lamp, where is it from?
Jul 03, 2009
Such a great look. They look VERY expensive.
How did you attach the drapery pins?
Jul 06, 2009
I wish I had your talent! I need curtains for my closet, and these would be perfect.
Feb 04, 2011
A little off topic – where can I find some inexpensive bamboo window coverings (the kind you see in all the mags)? Some that would look cool behind your curtains. Thanks!
Jul 10, 2012
Just bought everything I need to do exactly what you have! What color would you recommend for sewing? white? Also would you recommend also using a hemming kit and ironing on the trim instead of sewing? Thanks!!
Jul 15, 2012
Hi Joanna! Sewing will definitely last longer. If you do have a sewing machine, the extra work is definitely worth the end result which will have a more professionally finished look. If not, an iron/hem kit is a great quick solution to get the job done. Good luck!
Oct 30, 2012
Hi Nicole,
This is really helpful, however, I don’t completely understand what you mean about not using the clips. How do you attach the hooks to the back of the panels?
Thanks!
Carrie
Dec 19, 2012
Hi Carrie! The hook actually have pins that you pierce right through the fabric and it holds them to the panels very securely. Then you just put attach the hooks to the rings and voila! It’s super easy to do and gives your draperies a completely professional look!