One way to trim the cost for window treatments is to sew them yourself. You're basically fitting a box. There's not a lot of fancy sewing required, and little mistakes are forgiven very easily.
If you're wondering whats popular right now, there is a trend toward drapery panels as well as an increase in the popularity of roman shades which are also easily made at home, or even a combination of the two.
A visit to your local fabric store will provide inspiration in the form of patterns and fabric.
Having the right equipment will make any sewing project easier, and making window treatments is no exception. You'll need a sturdy sewing machine that can sew through layers.
You'll also want to set up a work area. Because some of the pieces you'll be working on will be quite large, you'll need a big ironing surface. You can improvise, using a desk, dining room table or even a ping pong table covered with several layers of towels. You'll also need a good steam iron.
How To Make Window Treatments Using A Tablecloth
A tablecloth with a border pattern is a natural for making a small-size curtains. These instructions are for a matching set including a valance, cafe curtains and sheers.
Valance
Hem the band section, or use the finished edge of the tablecloth. Cut a 1x board to the width of the window and screw it to the window trim.
Attach hook-and-loop tape to the valance and board.
Mount the valance to the board, gathering it at the corners and staple into the fold, using the fabric to hide the staples.
Cafe Curtains
Cut the tablecloth into two cafe-length panels and a valance, allowing 1/2 inch for hems along cut edges. (The lengths of the panels and valance will depend on your window and the size of the tablecloth.
Hem the cut edge on each panel and stitch curtain rings across the top of each; thread swing-arm rods through the rings
Gingham Sheer
Cut two shorter panels from the complementary fabric. Stitch a pocket at the panels top and bottom edges; hem the sides.
Thread one tension rod through the top pockets and one through the bottom pockets and position the rods inside the window frame.
