Making the right connections - how to create no-sew curtains - Brief Article

Sunset, July, 2001 by Jil Peters

Eight easy ways to create no-sew curtains

With a little imagination and some simple connectors, you can turn any piece of fabric into an attractive window covering--without ever touching a needle. The fabric should suit your home's style. For greatest ease, choose something that already has finished edges, such as a vintage linen or printed sheet. Then pair it with the hook, clip, or grommet that best matches it. For inspiration, take a look at our well-connected examples.

1. Grommets, slipped over wall hooks, produce a simple, crisp window treatment.

2. Beautifully designed metal clips, like these from Liz's Antique Hardware in Los Angeles, add character; look for old clips at flea markets and antiques stores.

3. Rayon cording tied through grommets gives a finished look; hide the knot behind the grommet.

4. Even with buttons you don't need to sew: Thread fine wire through buttons to connect loops of grosgrain ribbon to fabric.

5. Use iron-on fusing tape to create a channel wide enough for a rod or wood dowel to pass through.

6. Clip-on curtain rings are available through companies such as IKEA and Smith and Noble.

7. Team beaded loops, made from 24-gauge wire, with wall hooks for an easy fix. Poke a hole in the fabric with a straight pin and the wire will pass through easily.

8. Thread beads on "memory wire" (wire coils that retain circular forms; available in bead shops) to make a simple curtain ring.