Privacy and Style: Windows on a Budget.

The most expensive decorating elements, next to your furniture, can be window treatments.  Why in the heck do curtains cost so much?  I was so fed up with my last window project I hit the AS-IS section at IKEA and dug and dug until I found four matching panels.  It took a little time but it saved me almost 80 bucks.

Keep in mind fine linens of any kind will always cost an arm and a leg, but if you’re just simply trying to get the job done there are some creative, low-cost treatments that bring privacy and style.

Try:

Paper or Grass Panels - They come in a roll and are great for a space where you want diffuse light.

Window Film - If you want privacy while maintaining the natural light of the room, try using a stick-on window film.  They come in many tints, shades, even colors.  This type of treatment will give you a minimal, modern look and feel.

Roman Shades - Roman shades are inexpensive and great for privacy.

Shower Curtains - Don't get it twisted!  A shower curtain can be a great fake-me-out.  Fabric shower curtains (even plastic) are cheaper than traditional curtains and can look high-end.

Sheets - Take your favorite sheet or find an old vintage one and with a simple hem you have an instant panel curtain.

image from Everyday Crafty Goodness

Here are some other alternative ideas that speak for themselves:

 

 

image from veryirie eHow Community Member

There you have it.  I Dare You To Be Domestic!

Comments

[Shirlene "The Big Ticket"]

AS-IS section in IKEA is ON POINT! People usually sleep on that section but fail to realize that the "AS-IS" part of the product is usually very minor! I, too, like the roman shades. They are easy to adjust and allot for just the right amount of sunlight that you want. I really like the idea of the water bottles with the grass stems in them! That is so creative! Nice post! :-)

[mk graces]

so fun! great ideas. i love the roman shades - i picked mine up at ikea and have gotten many compliments on them! the go great in the same room with my pottery barn dupioni silk coverings... mk