A couple of weeks ago I told you some of the reasons why I think it’s a good idea to choose custom window treatments over ready-mades. Since custom is obviously not in everyone’s budget, today I’m going to share some tips for ways to help keep the cost of custom window treatments down.
Be sure to check out our Decorating With Window Treatments page for more ideas, tips and techniques for your windows!
How To have Custom Window Treatments On A Budget
1. Shop for your own fabrics. Picking out fabrics for my clients is one of my favorite parts of my business, but it can take some time to pick out the right fabrics for my client’s home. Some people don’t feel comfortable choosing their fabrics, and I’m happy to help them, but if you can pick out your own fabrics that will definitely help keep the costs down.
2. Choose a timeless window treatment design and fabric. Choose a window treatment design that is classic and timeless, such as pinch pleated draperies. Also, when choosing your fabrics try to stay away from trendy colors, and stick with classic nuetrals. Think of your custom window treatments as an investment in your home that you’ll have for 5 to 10 years.
3. Fabricate the window treatments yourself. Fabricating window treatments can be tricky, but if you feel that your sewing skills are up to the challenge, then fabricating your window treatments yourself will save you some money.
4. Choose less expensive types of fabrics. For instance, instead of a real silk fabric choose a faux silk instead. Also, any fabrics that are embroidered are going to be more expensive that ones that aren’t.
5. Choose simpler window treatment styles. Simpler window treatment styles will usually take less fabric. A flat valance will take less fabric than a swag. Part of custom window treatments big appeal to me is being able to add details, such as trims, cording and buttons, but these will add to the cost too.
6. Don’t skimp on linings! It would be easy to try to save money by not having your window treatments lined, or using an inexpensive lining. But, lining is one area you don’t want to skimp on. Good lining can help a not-so-great fabric look a lot nicer, and can make a good fabric look even better.
So, there are some ways that you can have custom window treatments on a budget. Soon I’ll be sharing some ways keep costs down when choosing drapery hardware.
I’m linking to my favorite parties here!
Eliza Cranston says
December 21, 2015 at 12:04 pmThanks for the advice on custom window treatments! I want to add some new curtains to the windows in my living room but can’t afford anything too pricey. I’ll make sure to not skimp on the lining but to choose some less expensive fabrics. What kind of treatment would you say is “classic and timeless?”
Jann says
December 21, 2015 at 4:12 pmEliza, good idea not to skimp on the lining. I think drapery panels are a classic and timeless window treatment. Good luck with your project!
Deanna says
December 22, 2015 at 12:20 pmThanks for these tips. Always looking to save where I can. Am soon going to be remodeling the upstairs and the bedroom window treatments are on the list. This will certainly help us with our budget. Thank you.
Jann says
December 22, 2015 at 1:33 pmYou’re welcome! Good luck with your projects!
kiyel Williams says
March 25, 2016 at 9:50 amI like the idea of not skimping on the lining. You can save a ton by picking a cheaper fabric and then spicing it up with a little more pricey lining and make it look fantastic without breaking the bank. Thank you for the awesome information, definitely going to be sending this to some friends!
Jann says
March 25, 2016 at 12:51 pmKiyel, yes, it’s so important not to skimp on the lining. Thanks!