Are plain windows making your room look blah? You don’t need to spend big bucks on fancy curtains! I used to think beautiful window treatments would empty my wallet.
When I moved into my tiny apartment, my budget was tight. But I still wanted my place to look good.
Through lots of trial and error (and a few funny fails), I found amazing ways to make cheap curtains look expensive.
Curtains aren’t just for blocking nosy neighbors. They can make small rooms feel bigger, add a pop of color, and turn boring spaces into wow spaces! And the best part? You can do it all without spending much money.
In this post, I’ll show you 11 budget-friendly and advanced curtain hacks that will convert your home. Trust me—your friends will think you hired a designer!
How Can Curtain Hacks Upgrade My Living Space
Curtains aren’t just window covers—they’re room transformers! Here’s how simple curtain tricks can make your home look better:
- To make rooms look bigger: Hang curtains high and wide. Put the rod near the ceiling and stretch it past the window edges. This simple trick makes windows look huge!
- Add instant color: Are you tired of boring walls? Colorful curtains add pop without painting. My plain living room came alive with bold curtains.
- Control light your way: Sleep in with blackout curtains or get soft light with sheer ones. I finally stopped waking up at sunrise when I added blackout liners.
- Fix problem areas: Use the right curtains to hide ugly views, muffle street noise, or block cold drafts.
- Create mood: Want cozy? Try thick, warm fabrics. Want airy? Go with light, flowing curtains.
- Define spaces: In open floor plans, curtains can create “walls” to separate areas without construction.
- Frame your view: Nice windows deserve to be highlighted. Good curtains are like picture frames for your outdoor views.
Must-Try Curtain Hacks for a Stylish, Budget-Friendly Home
Convert your home with these simple, budget-friendly curtain hacks that add style and functionality.
From DIY tiebacks to luxe-looking drop cloth curtains, these easy ideas will elevate your space without breaking the bank!
1. DIY No-Sew Curtain Tiebacks
Create stylish tiebacks by simply tying ribbon, rope, or fabric around your curtains. Add decorative accents like beads or tassels for extra flair.
What you need:
- Ribbon, rope, or fabric
- Scissors
How to do it: Cut a piece of ribbon or rope to about 18 inches long and tie it around your curtains to create a simple tieback. For added flair, you can embellish it with decorative beads or tassels to give your curtains a personalized touch.
Why it works: A Cheap and easy way to add style to your curtains.
2. Drop Cloth Curtains for a Luxe Look
Use affordable drop cloths to create chic, high-end curtains. Clip them to curtain rings for a simple yet luxurious style.
What you need:
- Drop cloth (from a hardware store)
- Curtain rings with clips
How to do it: Choose a drop cloth that is large enough to cover your window and iron it to smooth out any wrinkles. Once it’s ready, clip the drop cloth to the curtain rings and hang it up for a chic, high-end look.
Why it works: Drop cloths are affordable and give a chic, high-end look.
3. Tension Rods for Temporary Curtains
Set up curtains quickly with a tension rod and fabric, perfect for renters or temporary setups with no drilling required.
What you need:
- Tension rods
- Any fabric or curtain
How to do it: Place a tension rod inside your window frame and simply drape fabric over the rod to create your curtains. This setup is quick and easy, perfect for temporary or renter-friendly solutions.
Why it works: No drilling, easy setup for renters or temporary setups.
4. Add a Simple Valance for Style
Uplift your curtains by adding a fabric valance at the top for a clean, polished look without extra cost or effort.
What you need:
- Fabric (like a scarf or leftover curtain material)
- Curtain rod
How to do it: Cut fabric to fit the top of your window and hang it above your curtains. This adds a neat, finished look that enhances the overall style of your window treatment.
Why it works: It adds a polished touch without any extra cost.
5. Add a Blackout Liner for Better Sleep
Attach a blackout liner to your curtains to block light, improve sleep quality, and boost energy efficiency in your home.
What you need:
- Blackout liner
- Safety pins or sewing kit
How to do it: Cut the blackout liner to the size of your curtains and attach it to the back using pins or by sewing. This helps block light for better sleep and improves energy efficiency.
Why it works: Blocks light for better sleep and improves energy efficiency.
6. Hang Curtains Higher to Make Rooms Look Bigger
Install curtain rods above your windows, and use long curtains to create the illusion of taller, more spacious rooms.
What you need:
- Curtain rods
- Long curtains
How to do it: Install the curtain rod 4-6 inches above the window frame and use curtains that reach the floor or puddle on the ground. This creates a dramatic effect that makes your room feel taller and more spacious.
Why it works: It makes your room feel taller and more spacious.
Professional Curtain Hacks for the Ultimate DIY Makeover
Creative and easy ways to elevate your space with advanced curtain hacks that bring style and functionality.
From custom pleats to luxurious layered looks, these DIY tips will transform your windows into stunning focal points.
7. Create Custom Pleated Curtains
Sew pleating tape to fabric, pull it to form pleats, and hang the curtains on a rod for a tailored, classic look. This adds elegance and structure to any room.
What you need:
- Fabric
- Pleating tape
- Needle and thread (or sewing machine)
- Curtain rod
How to do it: Measure and cut the fabric to fit your window size, then sew pleating tape to the top. Pull the tape to create pleats, attach hooks, and hang the fabric on a curtain rod for a classic, tailored look.
Why it works: Pleated curtains add a classic, tailored look to any room.
8. Use Curtain Hooks and Rings for a Luxe Look
Attach hooks to your curtains and use rings on the rod to create a smooth, luxurious look with easy sliding functionality. This enhances the overall aesthetic of your curtains.
What you need:
- Curtain hooks and rings
- Curtain fabric
- Curtain rod
How to do it: Attach hooks to the top of your curtains, then place rings on the curtain rod. Hang your curtains by slipping the hooks onto the rings, creating a smooth, luxurious look.
Why it works: This gives your curtains a smooth, luxurious look and allows for easy sliding.
9. Turn Old Sheets into Stylish Curtain Panels
Repurpose old bed sheets by cutting, hemming, and adding loops for a budget-friendly way to create unique curtain panels. It’s an eco-friendly and creative solution.
What you need:
- Old bed sheets
- Scissors
- Curtain rings or a rod
- Fabric glue (optional)
How to do it: Cut the sheets to the right size for your window and hem the edges or use fabric glue for a clean finish. Attach loops to the top for the curtain rings, then hang them up for a quick and stylish window treatment.
Why it works: Repurposing sheets is a quick, inexpensive way to make unique curtains.
10. Add a Pop of Color with Ombre Curtains
Dye white curtains with fabric dye, creating a beautiful ombre effect for a trendy and colorful addition to your room. This DIY project adds vibrancy to your space.
What you need:
- White curtains
- Fabric dye or spray paint
- Plastic drop cloth
- Gloves
How to do it: Protect your floor with a drop cloth and wear gloves before starting. Apply dye to the bottom of the curtains, gradually lightening as you move upward, then let them dry completely before hanging for a beautiful ombre effect.
Why it works: Ombre curtains add a trendy, colorful touch to your space.
11. Create a Layered Curtain Look
Layer sheer and heavy curtains on two rods to add depth, flexibility, and style. It allows for more control over light and privacy while looking sophisticated.
What you need:
- Two sets of curtains (sheer and heavy)
- Two curtain rods
- Curtain rings or hooks
How to do it: Install one rod for sheer curtains and another for heavy curtains, then hang the sheer curtains on the inner rod and the heavy curtains on the outer rod. Adjust or tie back the heavier curtains to add extra style and versatility to your window treatment.
Why it works: Layering curtains adds depth and flexibility to control light and privacy.
How to Install Curtains Like a Pro: Step by Step Tutorial
Want to freshen up your room with minimal effort and cost? Here are 7 simple curtain hacks that will elevate your space without breaking the bank!
Step 1: Create Custom Curtain Tiebacks
Instead of buying expensive tiebacks, make your own using rope, fabric, or even old jewelry.
Cut the material to about 18 inches, tie it into a knot or bow, and wrap it around your curtains to keep them neatly in place. This adds a stylish touch while keeping your curtains controlled.
Step 2: Repurpose Old Curtains
Give your old curtains a new life by shortening them, adding a trim, or using the fabric for other projects like throw pillows or table runners.
All you need are some scissors and fabric glue or a sewing kit. It’s an affordable way to save money and refresh your room with minimal effort.
Step 3: Use Tension Rods for Easy Installation
Tension rods are perfect for hanging curtains without the need to drill holes in the wall, making them ideal for renters or temporary setups.
Simply place the tension rod inside the window frame and hang your curtains. This no-drill solution makes it easy to change up your curtains whenever you want.
Step 4: Make Luxe Drapes with Drop Cloths
Create a luxurious look with inexpensive drop cloths from a hardware store. Cut the drop cloths to the size of your window, then hang them using curtain rings with clips.
This DIY hack gives you a chic, high-end appearance without the high price tag.
Step 5: Add Blackout Liners for Light Control
To block out light and improve insulation, add a blackout liner to your curtains. Simply measure and cut the liner to fit your curtain size, then attach it using fabric glue or by sewing it into place.
This simple addition helps improve your room’s energy efficiency and gives you better control over light.
Step 6: Layer Sheer and Heavy Curtains
For added texture and depth, layer sheer curtains with heavier drapes. Hang the sheer curtains on the inner rod and the heavier curtains on the outer rod.
This look not only adds style but also gives you more control over light and privacy.
Step 7: Install a Curtain Valance for Extra Style
For a polished and elegant finish, install a curtain valance above your curtains. Cut a piece of fabric to fit the top of your window and hang it above your existing curtains.
This quick addition creates a sophisticated, professional look without much effort.
Quick Fixes for Common Curtain Problems
Here are quick fixes for common curtain problems, made simple and easy to follow:
1. Curtains Won’t Stay Closed
- Fix: Use magnetic ties or curtain tiebacks to keep curtains closed.
- Why it works: These hold the curtains in place and prevent them from sliding open.
2. Curtains Too Short
- Fix: Add extra fabric or trim to the bottom using fabric glue or a sewing kit.
- Why it works: This adds length and makes the curtains fit your windows better.
3. Wrinkled Curtains
- Fix: Hang curtains while damp or use an iron/steamer to remove wrinkles.
- Why it works: Damp curtains or steam help wrinkles fall out easily.
4. Curtains Not Sliding Smoothly
- Fix: Rub a candle or soap on the curtain rod to reduce friction.
- Why it works: This allows curtains to slide more easily.
5. Curtain Hooks Falling Off
- Fix: Use hook rings or ensure hooks are securely attached and evenly spaced.
- Why it works: Hook rings keep the curtains stable and prevent hooks from falling.
6. Light Leaking Through Sides
- Fix: Use side tiebacks or add blackout liners to the curtains.
- Why it works: This blocks light and ensures privacy.
Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Curtain Hacks Looking Fresh
Keeping your curtains looking good doesn’t take much work. Simple care keeps them fresh and extends their life far beyond what you’d expect from budget options.
- Check the care label first: Different fabrics need different cleaning. Some can go in the washing machine, others need dry cleaning only.
- Vacuum regularly: Use the brush attachment on your vacuum to remove dust weekly.
- Spot clean when needed: For small stains, use a damp cloth with mild soap rather than washing the whole curtain.
- Wash correctly when it’s time: Most washable curtains do best in cold water on a gentle cycle.
- Never put wet curtains in storage: Make sure they’re completely dry to prevent mold.
- Iron on low heat: If curtains get wrinkly, iron them on the lowest setting that works.
- Rotate curtains in sunny rooms: Switch curtains from different rooms occasionally to keep wear even.
- Fix small issues quickly: A loose hem or missing hook gets worse if ignored.
- Refresh with fabric spray: Between washes, a fabric freshener removes odors.
- Replace linings before curtains: Linings often wear out first. Just the lining can be replaced to extend the curtain’s life.
The Bottom Line
Making your home look better doesn’t need lots of money. These 11 curtain tricks can change your rooms without spending too much. You can use things you already have or buy cheap items to create a new look.
Small changes can make your home look very different. Try using hem tape instead of sewing, adding trim to plain curtains, or using thin curtains behind thick ones.
Ready to start? Pick one hack that fits your style and budget, and give it a try this weekend. Your refreshed space will thank you!
What’s your favorite curtain hack from this list? Share your results or questions in the comments below—I’d love to see what you create!
