How to Make Drop Cloth Curtains

I just love all things DIY and today I’m sharing one of my favorite projects with you. In the video below I show you how to make drop cloth curtains that will fit with most any decor style!

Several of you have been asking how I made the window treatments in my living room so today I’m showing you how to make drop cloth curtains. Yep, I really used painter’s drop cloths to make these! I really like the cream color of these clothes but I have also seen them in gray tones. If that fits your color scheme better, by all means go with those. I needed four panels and wasn’t able to find all four at any of my local home improvement stores so I just ordered them online. I posted the link with the video so you can order the same ones if you want.

I have to confess that I am not a sewer. There are many creative talents in my bag of tricks but that is just not one of them. I am making this confession so you know that, even if you are not a skilled sewer, you can still make these beautiful curtains! My sewing machine came to me sort of by chance. I am not great with it but I was still able to produce curtains that I am proud to display in my home. The nice thing about the roll hem that I use is that you can’t really see the stitching on the front of the panels. That means that my crooked seems are no big deal!

I chose to use drop cloths because I love the creamy color and texture. And bonus: they iron like a dream! The cool thing about these is that they go with several different design styles. They have a rustic but elegant look that coordinates well with the farmhouse and vintage looks that I know many of you love. No matter your style and creative talents, you can pull of this look with ease! Don’t have a sewing machine? No problem! Borrow one from a friend, see if you can snag one at a thrift store, or rent one from your local craft store.

Note: I made these curtains to fit well with my 8 foot ceilings. If your ceilings are a different height you may want to adjust your measurements.

Here’s another idea…

If you like the look and texture of the drop cloths but are looking for more color in your curtains you could try using some dye. This material is designed to be absorbent so (as long as they are canvas) they’d take to the dye really well. I have to tell you that I have never tried to do this before but I think it’s a really fun idea! All you’d need would be some good old RIT from your craft store. Follow the instructions on the package and you’ll be all set. Just keep in mind that these are large pieces of material when you are deciding how much dye to get.

Drop Cloth Curtain Supply List

2 Drop clothes (4ft by 12 ft) for each window you are making curtains for.
Scissors
Pins
Sewing machine
Measuring tape
Iron

Step by Step Instructions

Pop your drop cloths in the dryer for a bit to fluff and freshen them. Next, give them a good iron.
Some drop clothes are already hemmed on the sides but if yours aren’t, add a hem to each long side of the panel.
Next, lay each panel on the floor. Measure 87.5 inches from one end of the panel and place a line of pins the width of the panel. Fold the panel over along the line of pins and iron so you have a very vivid line to work with.
Measure 13 inches down from that line and cut the fabric off there.
Next, fold the bottom up about a half inch then fold it the same amount again and sew the hem.
Finally, add your curtain clips along the folded edges of your panels and hang them up!

Curtains can really make a room! They add that finishing touch and provide a lovely backdrop for the rest of your decor. You can use any curtain rod for this but you will need to use clips to attach your curtains to the rods. I found my clips at the dollar store and spray painted them black to match my rods. I love the way these drop cloth curtains turned out and I hope you do too. Please let me know if you have any questions, I’d be happy to help!

Looking for more decor inspiration? Be sure to follow me on Facebook and Instagram!

If you love creating vintage treasures as much as I do you can also join my membership group, Tami Loves Creating Vintage Treasures. There you will get exclusive tutorials that will teach you how to create beautiful and unique pieces that will fit perfectly with your vintage decor!

How to Make Drop Cloth Curtains