DIY Bow-Tying for Curtains

Pull your curtains back using ribbon.

Curtains add color and privacy to your home. They keep people from seeing inside of your home, especially at night, and insulate the windows and dress up your living space. Instead of just having curtains hanging in front of your windows during the day, sling them back into a bow-tye. This way they look attractive, and let in the sunlight. When the sun begins to set, untie the bow to add a little more privacy.

Things You'll Need

• 2 ribbons, 16-inches long
• Push pin

Instructions

1. Choose a ribbon based on the colors of your curtains. If you have solid curtains, go for a complimentary color. For example: If the curtains are light gold, choose winter white; if the curtains are brown, go for a tan or khaki color, etc. If you have patterned curtains, choose one color from the pattern to accentuate.

2. Fold one ribbon in half to determine the exact middle of the ribbon. Place the push pin through the middle of the ribbon.

3. Start with the left side of the window, and push the push pin into the wall next to the window (outside of the window frame). Be sure to keep the pin as close to the window frame as possible so it can not be seen. For best results, use a flat-top push pin.

4. Pull the left curtain panel over to the left side of the window where the pin and ribbon were just inserted.

5. Separate the ribbon ends and hold the curtain panel in between the two ends. Bring the ribbon around the curtain, cris-cross the ribbon and loop the right ribbon end over the left (like you're tying your shoe). Pull each end to tighten.

6. Tie the ribbon into a bow; pull on the bow's loops to tighten it. If necessary, cut the ribbon ends to make them even.

7. Repeat Steps 3 through 6 with the curtain's right panel on the right side of the window.

Tips & Warnings

• Most windows will have two curtain panels. If you have just one panel, sweep the left window's panel over to the left side, securing with the bow. Then sweep the right window's panel over to the right side, also securing with a bow.

References

• Map Center: Different Kinds of Push Pins
• Michael's Arts and Crafts: Different Kinds of Ribbon