Home Garden

How to Make Space Dividers

A space divider can separate one large area into two rooms. The most permanent way to create a space divider is to have a carpenter build a wall, but this can be costly. There are more versatile, budget-friendly DIY options. Curtains, bookshelves and bi-fold doors are just a few items you can re-purpose as space dividers. These options should not limit you -- a creative homeowner can turn all sorts of items into homemade space dividers.

Things You'll Need

  • Tape measure
  • Power drill
  • Screwdriver
  • Drywall anchors
  • Curtain rod
  • Curtains
  • Open-back bookshelves
  • Bi-fold doors
  • Paint
  • Batting
  • Fabric
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Instructions

  1. Curtain

    • 1
      Use a store-bought curtain as a space divider, or make one from fabric or an alternative material.

      Measure the space you will divide. Measure the length and the height of the room.

    • 2

      Install rod holders at both ends of the space where you will position a curtain rod. You can purchase special holders that screw into the wall and hold a rod or dowel.

    • 3

      Slide a curtain on a curtain rod or dowel, sized for the length of the space. Make sure the curtain is tall enough, and use enough panels to divide the entire space. Install the curtain rod onto the rod holders. Install hooks or other hardware to support the curtain rod from the ceiling if the rod droops or spans a long distance.

    Bookshelves

    • 4
      Bookshelves divide library spaces into aisles; use one to divide your space.

      Measure the length and height of the space you want to divide.

    • 5

      Place open-faced bookshelves along the length of the space.

    • 6

      Stack another row of bookshelves on top of the first row if the first bookshelves are too short. Place books in the bookshelves to maintain some openness. Place high baskets in the bookshelves a more private, complete division.

    Bi-Fold Doors

    • 7
      You can dress up plain white bi-fold doors to use as space dividers.

      Measure the length of the space you will divide. Remove the hardware from two sets of bi-fold doors. You may have to use more doors for large spaces.

    • 8

      Paint the doors or cover them with batting and fabric. Reinstall the door hardware.

    • 9

      Stand the doors up to divide the room. Be sure to position them in a zigzag pattern so that they can stand unsupported.