Updated 3/24/2020: This post explains a Custom Drapery Hack-Get the Look for Less.

I’ve sewn several sets of drapery for my home. Just so we’re clear, I’m not a “real” seamstress. I can sew a straight line, and that skill has permitted me to make changes to my window treatments through the years. This post will help you complete a Custom Drapery Hack-Get the Look for Less.

You might enjoy this post on customizing your drapes as well: 5 Steps to Customize Drapes

Customize Store Bought Drapes or Curtains

The Look for Less

When you get the itch to switch your décor as often as I do, unless your independently wealthy, you employ tactics that will enable you to make changes on a budget.  When I’m saving a small fortune by  doing the sewing myself, I can splurge on fabulous upholstery grade fabric, of course at an equally fabulous sale price.

After unsuccessfully investing far too much time this spring searching for the perfect creamy white velvet fabric for the living room window drapes, and not really being all that excited about breaking  out the sewing machine, I decided I could gussy-up a pair of ready-made drapes to scratch that itch to switch. 

I found a great pair in the exact color I wanted in a microfiber fabric at HomeGoods. Thoughts on how I would customize them started swirling. Here’s what I needed to get started.

Items for Custom Drapery Hack – The Look for Less

1. Store bought drapes.
2. Trim for Hemline
3. Large Buttons (or in my case Capiz Shells
4. Glue Gun or Sewing Machine to Attach the Trims

First: Store Bought Curtains or Drapes

To get the full look, I used two panels on each side of the picture window.

Second: Decide on Trim for the Hemline

This girl is a huge fan of bullion trim. I ordered this gorgeous trim on-line and found a fun pop of color ribbon to jazz up the look as well.

Three: Apply Large Focal Buttons or Capiz Shells to Drapes

Yet again, I searched for large colorful buttons through several stores and for several weeks. While strolling through Hobby Lobby (I really should work for those folks), I came across the perfectly sized item in an interesting material on an unlikely aisle. I spotted a wind chime with the most lovely Capiz shell disks. Well, butter my butt and call me a biscuit! They’re the perfect size and they add great color.

Four: Sewing Machine or Glue Gun for Attaching the Trims to the Drapes

Still refusing to drag out the sewing machine, I meticulously hot glued both the trim and the ribbon. I love how the light flows through the white drapes.

That’s a wrap for now. I spy my favorite summer spot right outside that window. I think I’ll do a little swingin’ before I start another project. There may be a little negotiating, as it’s a popular location this spring.  You can read about this early summer DIY here. I’ll be back directly!

Enjoy Today!
Love y’all,

Lori Nell

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