Cheap Curtain Ideas To Update Your Home
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Ever look at your windows and think, “I should really do something about those”… but then the price tag of custom drapes makes you back away slowly? We’ve all been there. This guide is full of cheap curtain ideas that are easy on the wallet and big on style. Whether you’re tackling a full-room makeover or just want a quick weekend win, you’re in the right place.
How can I make stylish curtains at home without sewing?
Try no-sew DIY curtains using burlap, drop cloths, or even table runners. Just add clip rings, iron-on hem tape, or jute twine for a finished look—no sewing machine required.
This wall of windows had me sweating the price of custom drapes.
With a few curtain hacks and some creative problem-solving, I created a cozy farmhouse feel at a fraction of the cost!
No Sew Curtains: Easy Curtains DIY Anyone Can Make
No thread? No problem.
No sew curtains are one of my favorite home projects because they’re beginner-friendly, budget-conscious, and honestly a little bit fun.
Use drop cloths, burlap, shower curtains, or even bedsheets.
Tip: Clip rings are your best friend and don’t underestimate the power of an iron and hem tape!
I used Stitch Witchery to make my curtains and it worked perfectly! Simply sandwich the stitch Witchery between the folded fabric (to make a hem) and iron. That’s it!
There’s a reason burlap shows up in every curtain tutorial you scroll past. It’s affordable, adds texture, and brings in that warm farmhouse feel without looking heavy.
DIY Burlap Curtains – Stylish Curtains with Farmhouse Texture
When I wanted a softer, beachier look for our foyer, I used simple white panels and wrapped the tops with jute twine. This was one of those unique curtain ideas that turned out even better than I expected.
Curtain Tie Backs – Making Curtains Easy with Leftover Fabric
Don’t throw out your fabric scraps.
Matching DIY curtain tie backs are a great way to use leftovers and bring everything together.
Just cut a strip, steam the edges, and attach with a hook or decorative knob.
Drop Cloth Curtains – Cheap Curtain Ideas That Look Custom
These are the MVP of DIY projects to try.
Drop cloths are durable, washable, and have a beautiful drape once washed and softened.
You can find them at the hardware store for under $20 each.
Kari Anne at ThistleWood Farm made these amazing drop cloth curtains and they are beautiful!
DIY Curtain Valance – Table Runners as Homemade Curtains
For smaller windows or kitchen spaces, a valance can be all you need.
I turned a table runner into a charming valance for our bathroom window. It’s one of my favorite simple upgrades to date.
DIY Curtain Rods – The Overlooked Hero of Window Style
Curtain rods don’t have to cost a fortune.
Use copper pipes, wooden dowels, or even plumbing pieces to create your own.
DIY curtain rods are easy to make and offer a custom look.
I made a DIY outdoor curtain rod out of plumbing pipe and it was so simple and cheap!
What I Learned: Buy Curtains Only If You Have To
I thought I’d just order curtains and be done. But the cost? Yikes. Making your own homemade curtains saves money, lets you pick exactly what you want, and honestly feels kind of satisfying.
FAQ: Homemade Curtain Questions
Yes. Iron-on hem tape and clip rings make it easy to create no sew curtains at home.
Medium-weight fabrics like poly-cotton blends or washed drop cloths work well for easy curtains DIY projects.
Use curtain clips with simple rods, or try DIY curtain rods made from hardware store materials.
Yes. Pre-wash any fabric to prevent shrinkage, especially if you’re using drop cloths or cotton blends. BUT if you are using burlap, do not wash it. You can check out my “how to remove odor and cleaning” burlap post for more information.
Meet Jessica
What started as a hobby, Jessica’s blog now has millions of people visit yearly and while many of the projects and posts look and sound perfect, life hasn’t always been easy. Read Jessica’s story and how overcoming death, divorce and dementia was one of her biggest life lessons to date.
