Embellishing a Curtain

Add a Decorative Trim

• This is a simple method for changing the look of your curtains. Certain trims lend themselves well to corresponding design moments in time -- bric-a-brac and pompom fringe gives a space a mid-century modern feel, as though a 1950s housewife could materialize at any moment, rolling pin in hand. Handmade lace trim harks back more to the early American or country primitive look inspired by the pioneers. Embellishing a curtain seems like such a small detail, but it can have a huge impact on the generational appeal of a space.

Change the Design

• Another simple fix for beefing up plain curtains involves making simple changes to their design. An easy process, simply sew on tab tops or add a ruffle to the bottom of a plain panel. If you are handy with a sewing machine, you might add a strip of a luxury fabric such as silk, velvet or even linen somewhere along the body of a cotton or polyester panel to add length and interest. Or instead, utilize ring clips to attach your panels to the curtain rod and add beaded embellishments that hang down from each clip.

Use a Decorative Technique

• The material of the curtain you want to embellish limits the type of embellishment you can add to it. For instance, you might be able to apply a stenciled border around the top or bottom of the curtain, or even stencil an intricate design, such as a family crest in the panel's center. Consider using decorative dye treatments such as tie-dye or tea-stain to alter the color and appearance of your curtains. You can also buy a fabric spray paint currently on the market that allows you to change the color of textiles without damaging the fabric.

Try a Simple Fix

• If you are not crafty with a needle and thread and the thought of painting or stenciling a design on fabric makes you cringe, go for an easy change-up by adding simple contrasting tiebacks. You might try mixing and matching panels, valances and sheers to achieve an undated, modern appeal. Consider draping a scarf over your existing window treatment to add elegance. Attach fabric strips to the tops of your curtains with safety pins and tie them to the rod with bows. If you are fond of shabby chic style, you might even allow the pins to show.