Levi KeswickIf you’re into that kind of thing, DIY projects can be heaps of fun. You get to create something that’s truly unique, and often save some money while doing so.
That being said, DIY isn’t always an appropriate approach to everything, especially curtains. Not only can it take a lot of time, but you’ll also often spend more money than you would if you bought them new from a supplier such as Woodyatt Curtains, while ending up with an inferior product.
It takes time
Cutting, sewing and hanging curtains totally from scratch can be a time-consuming process. Unless you’re a skilled seamstress, and know your way around a sewing machine, you’ll likely end up spending a surprising amount of time just getting the project started.
While you might be really excited about the project, if you’re just doing it because you think it’s a practical way of doing things, you can likely spend your time more efficiently on other projects.
You need space and the right tools
To make medium or large curtains, you’ll need a fair bit of space to cut the fabric, and a high-quality sewing machine set up on a desk to sew the pieces together. If you have that space already, and you have a sewing machine all ready to go, then it could be a good idea to try making some window coverings. Otherwise, it’s definitely worth thinking twice about making the investment.
It’s rarely cost-effective
Aside from the fact that your time is worth money, the tools and materials required to make curtains are also quite expensive. Even once you’ve invested in a good sewing machine, you still need to buy the fabric.
Nice fabric that you’d buy to make a good set of curtains isn’t cheap – you can end up spending a fair bit more than you would if you just bought the curtains ready-made, as the curtain manufacturer would have bought the fabric at trade prices, passing those savings over to you.
Little room for error
While when sewing a hat or a skirt, you can make something absolutely beautiful even if it’s not perfectly finished and symmetrical, this isn’t quite the case with curtains. Due to the way they hang, and the fact that they’re literally constantly on display, you’ll want something that’s pretty perfect. If you’re just getting into sewing, you’ll likely make the odd mistake or two, and it might be better to start with a project where these mistakes don’t matter quite as much.
What to do instead
There are plenty of great options to get your curtain needs sorted other than going the DIY route.
You can get some custom-made, take a look on second-hand sites such as eBay, or just look in high street curtain shops. They’re generally not too expensive, and you’ll have literally thousands of different options to choose between.
If you’re still excited about making your own curtains after reading this, don’t let us stop you – we’re sure you’ll have fun. If, however, you thought it would maybe be a way of saving money or avoiding hassle, we think it’s best to go another route, and save your DIY energy for another project.
