I have several large windows in my living room and bedroom that need covering, but custom treatments are way out of my budget. I'm looking for budget window treatments that still look nice and provide privacy. I've considered DIY options like curtains from discount stores, but I'm worried they'll look cheap. What are some affordable window covering solutions that work well for large windows? Any tips for making inexpensive curtains or blinds look more custom and high-end?
For budget window treatments on large windows, I've had great success with bamboo blinds. They're relatively inexpensive, especially if you buy them online, and they add a natural texture that looks more expensive than they are. I got mine from an online retailer for about $30 per window and they look great. You can layer them with simple curtain panels for more versatility.
I made my own curtains from drop cloths! Seriously, painter's drop cloths are heavy cotton canvas that looks like linen. I bought two large drop cloths for about $20 each, cut them to size, and used iron-on hem tape to finish the edges. They look like expensive linen curtains but cost a fraction of the price. I hung them on simple black rods from a discount store.
Roman shades are easier to make than you might think. I followed a tutorial online using inexpensive fabric and basic hardware. The key is getting the measurements right. I made three for my living room windows for about $15 each. They look custom and provide great light control. There are lots of no-sew options if you're not handy with a sewing machine.
For a really budget-friendly option, consider tension rods and fabric panels. You don't need to drill holes or install hardware. I used tension rods and some lightweight fabric I found on clearance. The fabric was $3 per yard and I used about 2 yards per window. It creates a soft, breezy look that's perfect for bedrooms. You can easily change them out seasonally too.
If you buy inexpensive curtains, you can make them look more custom by hanging them higher and wider than the window. This trick makes windows look larger and more dramatic. I also added curtain rings with clips to basic panels from a discount store - it makes them look more expensive and they glide more smoothly on the rod.