My kitchen makeover continues with Drop Cloth Curtains. I’m getting rid of all the red tones in my house and going for a lighter, more “earthy” vibe. So when I couldn’t find new curtains that fit the bill, I decided to make my own. That meant going to the hardware store for a canvas drop cloth. You know, the kind you use when you’re painting. For about $10, I picked up a 9′ x 6′ drop cloth, which was enough to make two valances, and still have a little left over.
As far as sewing is concerned, it doesn’t get any easier than sewing curtains. If you can sew straight lines, that’s all the skill it takes. Just make sure to wash your canvas before cutting it to ensure any future shrinkage when you need to wash your curtains. After washing mine, I ironed it and then made my cuts. I loved that this drop cloth had a seam in it, and decided to work that in to my design. I cut it to where the seam would run down the center of my curtains. I even cut it to where I would use the end seam as the hem of my curtains, which meant even less sewing on my part. Not that I don’t love to sew. Just check out my sewing machine! It belonged to my great grandmother, and I happen to think it’s the most beautiful sewing machine in the world.
With the sewing done, I decided to add some ties. I thought about using the leftover canvas to sew some tie strips, but then I thought about a more rustic looking rope. This is actually twisted manila rope, also found at the hardware store.
I cut the rope to size and tied each piece around the curtains in a very loose square knot. I thought it gave the curtains just the right touch.
It’s hard to get a decent picture of my Drop Cloth Curtains, because they are back-lit by the the sun, but I’m thrilled with how they turned out. I have a few more projects to tackle before I can show you the full finished makeover, but things are definitely coming along.
Be sure to check out my 7 Tips to Save Money on a Kitchen Remodel.
Now..those are just way cool..I was looking at your Singer sewing machine and I remember playing on my grandmothers machine which was identical to the one in the photo. I think it also was in it’s own cabinet that had drawers along both sides and a foot peddle for auto-stitching..and she used to turn the crank by hand for very slow and meticulous areas. You did a terrific job..your kitchen really look beautiful..and has an air of welcome. God Bless you, and yours always.
Thank you so much for your kind words, Dusty. I can’t help getting nostalgic every time I use my sewing machine, too. Growing up, my mother, who is an incredible seamstress, had four sewing machines. She wanted to give one to each of her three daughters, and the antique Singer is the one I chose. At the time, I told her I wanted it because it was powered by the foot peddle, and should the electricity ever go out, I could keep right on sewing. Fast forward many years, and that really did happen! The power on my street was knocked out as I was sewing a dress for my daughter, and I kept right on sewing. It was the coolest thing ever! Fulfilled prophecy! Thanks again. May God bless you as well.
Marcy, I love your curtains! They look so perfect with your Mason jar theme – very airy & bright. Your sewing machine is also a work of art & that you use it is totally amazing.
Thanks, Sally. Can’t wait for you to come see it all in person.
I love the inexpensive drop cloth, i made a ruffled table cover with one. Turned out great. Good job on the curtains and the sewing machine is gorgeous.
That’s awesome, Sylvia. You should take a picture of your table cover and post it on my facebook page. I’d love to see it. I may need to copy you for a future project.