- Kitchen curtains do not have to cover the whole window. Choose a curtain valance that runs across the top of the window instead of covering the whole window. A valance is usually gathered on an inexpensive curtain rod and can be designed with a scalloped bottom edge, a multi-layered look or a single layer of fabric. Add trim, mix fabric patterns, include a solid color as a layer or create a bottom ruffle. Include a simple mini-blind in a color that matches the valance fabric to control light and the view from the kitchen window or add a second rod below the valance rod (drop it down below the valance for a glimpse of outdoors) for a simple gathered curtain in a matching fabric.
- Bring a bit of nostalgia into the kitchen by choosing vintage style fabrics for decorating the window. Search vintage and collectible stores for tablecloths and dish towels to use as curtains. Curtain patterns (Simplicity and McCalls make valance and kitchen curtain patterns for the do-it-yourself project) can be cut directly from table cloths. Dish towels or tea towels are a good size for a valance but will require several for covering the full width of the window. Look for lightweight cotton towels with a wide, unobtrusive stripe if purchasing new. Consider plain muslin, calico, plaids or mattress ticking. You can use ticking in a traditional navy blue stripe but red, yellow or green may fit your personal tastes better. You can use muslin in a double layer to block light better. Lace is another choice that welcomes light into the kitchen but delivers a strong punch of vintage.
- Instead of using a standard curtain rod, look around for something more creative. A branch peeled of its bark is a good choice for a curtain rod. Check the property on which the log cabin home sits to locate one the right length. Rustic hardware like decorative nails can be used to tack a sheer muslin curtain across the kitchen window. Attach a small fabric tie along the outside near the middle of the curtain to use as a tie back on sunny days. Place rustic ring pulls across the window opening for tie tab curtains to loop through. Flip through a rustic hardware catalog for ideas. Rustic hardware is considered to be a specialty item and it may require the assistance of a local decorator to find this type of item. Check all the obvious places--phone book, online--but also consider looking at the ads in design magazines or contacting local blacksmiths for one-of-a-kind, hand forged hardware.
