DIY Drapery

DIY drapes cannot only hide clutter but also add a decorative touch to a room. No need for a sewing machine; use basic hand stitching and a hot iron for crisp edges.

A sound cubby hole above the coat closet is a good spot to store all my wool supplies behind my new designer curtains. 

Drapery Tension Adjustable Rod

I had initially wanted to hang the drapes with a tension-adjustable rod, but the one I bought would not hold up the weight of the fabric and beads. 

wall mounting rod holders for drapery

I had already customized and hand-stitched the top to fit the tension rod and didn't want to buy another pole. I went back to the store and bought wall-mounted rod holders, and now my drapes hang safely. 

I hand-stitched the bead trim, wanting to expose the rough edge of the woven fabric as part of the look. The wood beads are perfect for this fabric and only cost me under $4.00 in the super sale!

My sister's gift of this beautiful handwoven fabric from a trip to Bali is more than just a piece of cloth. It's a connection to her, to the designers' shop Nogo Bali Ikat Center, and to the personal story and history of the fabric. The colors and fabric continue with my eclectic decor style, but more than that, they bring a sense of personal connection and sentimentality to my home.

My handmade folk art pillow sits near the main door and features a turquoise color that continues through the drapery fabric, which I like very much.   These perfect wood beads not only look great but also keep the drapes from blowing around when the doors are opened.

UPDATE: This summer, I finally finished painting the closet doors with Fusion Mineral paint. Can read more here...

SHELF DRAPES:
Another sister had this batik fabric given to her by a woman who had it gift-wrapped around a present. Neither sews and wanted someone to appreciate this gorgeous black & white iris-themed batik fabric. My sister said I came to mind, so she sent it to me! I looked at this crisp cotton and thought, 'Hmm, perfect for shelf drapes!' 

Shelf Curtain HANGING SYSTEM: I designed a simple yet effective hanging system for the shelf curtains. This system, made up of plastic-coated framing wire and three eye hooks, ensures the curtains are securely in place.

Plastic Coated Framing Wire

Framing Eye Hooks

I have plastic-coated framing wire and three eye hooks screwed on each side of the shelf, and one in the middle attached to the top of the counter. 

No matter how I kept these shelves tidy, dust and dysfunction would inevitably occur.  Now I walk down my hallways and am happy to see the batik fabric drapes instead!!

This DIY project was not only one of the easiest to complete, but also a source of great satisfaction. Done in a day, including all the hand sewing, I put on a PODCAST and enjoyed the relaxing time with hand stitching. It was a moment of pure joy, with no rush, no worries, just the bliss of DIY decorating therapy.  And then, VOILA! The project was complete, and I felt a sense of accomplishment that was truly inspiring.

TRY Decorating Therapy! This DIY project was not just about creating beautiful decor, but also about the therapeutic process of crafting. I found joy and relaxation in the hand stitching, and I encourage you to try it too. Minaz