How to Make Curtains Out of Handkerchiefs

Vintage handkerchiefs come in many designs and are relatively inexpensive to purchase at thrift stores and secondhand shops. This project is ideal for window panels, cafe curtains or a simple valance. All you need is a sewing machine and enough handkerchiefs for the job.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Several handkerchiefs
• Sewing machine
• Ribbon
• Curtain rod or tree branch

1. Measure your window to determine how many handkerchiefs you will need to make your curtains. Also decide if you are making long drapes, short cafe curtains or a valance.

2. Purchase several vintage (or new) handkerchiefs in a matching design or color. They don't all have to be the same, but they should all coordinate with one another.

3. Measure the handkerchiefs, and figure out how many you will need for your curtain length. There is no precise formula for this, because windows come in varying sizes, as do handkerchiefs. One way to help you decide how many handkerchiefs you need is to lay out an old set of curtains that are the length and width you want. Then lay the handkerchiefs over them, like a sewing pattern.

4. Pin the handkerchiefs together. Then using a simple strait stitch, sew all the handkerchiefs together.

5. Cut several pieces of satin ribbon, trimmed to 4 inches. Fold the ribbon pieces in half (loops) and sew onto the top of the handkerchief curtain. This is the pocket for the curtain rod.

6. Hang your new handkerchief curtains up on a decorative curtain rod or a small tree branch cut for the purpose of substituting as a curtain rod and enjoy.

Tips & Warnings

• For some cowboy flair, make handkerchief curtains using bandannas. Alternate red and blue bandannas for a fun window treatment in a little boy's room .