from HGTV Rate My Space members, here's a short "how-to" video on how I made my dupioni silk dining room curtains, as featured in HGTV Ideas Magazine's Summer 2008 issue. (Click the little widescreen box for full screen HD)
Sew you can do it!
If you can sew a basic lined curtain with a plain, flat heading, you can do this! There are NO PLEATS and the hardware is easy to install - just 4 drywall anchors and 4 screws per drapery holdback and you're done.
You could also customize ready-made silk curtain panels if you don't need a crazy long length (135") like I did. I love the casual elegance of these curtains. As you'll see in the "before" view, they took my already-nice dining room to a whole new level.
Sew fun...sew economical!
If you're new to home sewing, you don't need fancy equipment to make curtains - or any other fabric home furnishings, for that matter. I still use my built-like-a-tank used Elna Zig-Zag sewing machine (circa 1974) and basic techniques from the 1986 classic, Vogue Sewing for the Home (still available for $10
from AntiQbook.com). I sold my serger years ago on eBay because I prefer to sew blind hems by hand...the way Mom taught me.
Sew what are you waiting for?
Sewing for your own home is one of the most rewarding do-it-yourself projects you can tackle. I've saved thousands of dollars over 20 years, and 3 homes, making my own window treatments, bedding, pillows, slipcovers, decorative pillows, upholstered headboards.
Please post your questions and I'll try to answer them. Happy sewing!
Shopping info: Please note that exact gold silk and the holdbacks I used have been discontinued, but you can find many similar substitutes out there.
