Transforming Old Curtains into Something Spectacular!

What can I make with old curtains? What can I do with an old shower curtain? Here are several clever curtain hacks!

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I have a bathroom in my home that sits right next to my bed and it has never had a door. I wanted to build some privacy that I could do myself that would be easy and inexpensive. I did this with just a tension rod and a shower curtain.

Unveiling Creativity: Transforming Old Curtains into Something Spectacular!

Make a Doorway with an Old Curtain

How do you hang curtains on a doorway?

I have a bathroom in my home that sits right next to my bed and it has never had a door. I wanted to build some privacy that I could do myself that would be easy and inexpensive. I did this with just a tension rod and a shower curtain.

Slide the old curtain onto your tension rod. (This shower curtain has built in shower curtain loops to hang from.)

Slide the shower curtain onto your tension rod. (This shower curtain has built in shower curtain loops to hang from.)

I measured the tension rod to fit my doorway. I extended it just past the doorway for a tight fit, and I slid the tension rod into my door way. Here is what it looks like with the curtain closed.

I measured the tension rod to fit my doorway. I extended it just past the doorway for a tight fit, and I slid the tension rod into my door way. Here is what it looks like with the curtain closed.

You can use a shower curtain as a window curtain or in our case to cover these french doors that are in our home.

Cover a window on a door from an Old Curtain

What can I use to cover a window on a door?

You can use a shower curtain as a window curtain or in our case to cover these french doors that are in our home.

Another option would be to place the 3 Command Hooks above the door. One on either end and one in the center.

I hung 2 Command Hooks up on each door.

Another option would be to place the 3 Command Hooks above the door. One on either end and one in the center.

Using 2 tension rods, I placed 1 old curtain on each of them.

Using 2 tension rods, I placed 1 curtain on each of them.

If you were doing the above the door option you could buy a curtain rod instead.

I placed the tension rods onto the hooks and we had curtains.

I placed the tension rods onto the hooks and we had curtains.

Use and old curtain as a table cloth, paint drop cloth, or splat mat under a high chair.

Use an Old Curtain as a Tablecloth

Can I use a curtain as a tablecloth?

Use it as a tablecloth, paint drop cloth, or splat mat under a high chair.

For my place mats, I used another place mat I had on hand to measure out and cut 4 rectangles of fabric.

Turn Old Curtains Into Placemats and Cloth Napkins

How can I make my own placemats?

For my placemats, I used another placemat I had on hand to measure out and cut 4 rectangles of fabric.

I hot glued the edges and folded underneath to create a seam so the place mats wouldn't fray.

I hot glued the edges and folded underneath to create a seam so the place mats wouldn’t fray.

I set them on my table and the great thing is that they're waterproof.

I set them on my table and the great thing is that they’re waterproof.

Using the insert of my 11 x 14" frame that I bought, I placed it on my shower curtain and cut around it.

Decorate a Bulletin Board or Make a Message Board with old Curtains

How do I make a notice board?

Using the insert of my 11 x 14″ frame that I bought, I placed it on my shower curtain and cut around it.

I placed the shower curtain section in my frame.

I placed the shower curtain section in my frame.

I hung it up as wall art and it doubles as a message board. Just use a dry erase marker and wipe it off when done.

I hung it up as wall art and it doubles as a message board. Just use a dry erase marker and wipe it off when done.

I'm so excited to share with you my repurposed shower curtain & jeans into no sew outdoor pillows with a journal and pen pockets!

Make Shower Curtain Pillows

I’m so excited to share with you my repurposed shower curtain & jeans into no sew outdoor pillows with a journal and pen pockets! This easy upcycled project is perfect for any age and makes a great gift idea! you can find this tutorial at No Sew Outdoor Pillows With Journal/Pen Pockets We use these decorative pillows outside but you could make indoor pillows as well.

 Unveiling Creativity: Transforming Old Curtains into Something Spectacular Video

More Ideas from Old Curtains:

Spread out the ribbons so they fill the space.

Ribbon-Infused Elegance: Upcycling Old Curtains for a Touch of Glamour

Old curtains may seem like mere remnants of your decor past, but with a dash of creativity, you can breathe new life into them. Consider incorporating colorful ribbons into the fabric to add a touch of elegance. Weave ribbons through the layers of the curtain fabric, creating a stunning visual effect that transforms your space into a sophisticated haven. The play of light through the ribbon-enhanced layers brings a dynamic and lively atmosphere to any room.

You can also turn that curtain into ribbon strips and make fun crafts like a ribbon doorway, wreath, etc.

Apron Adventure: Old Curtains Turned Stylish Aprons

Your old curtains might have served their purpose at the window, but why not let them take on a new role in your kitchen? Transform the curtain fabric into stylish aprons that not only protect your clothes but also bring a nostalgic charm to your cooking endeavors. Use the curtain fabric for the main body of the apron and add ribbon accents for a personalized touch. It’s a fun and practical way to repurpose old curtains while embracing a sustainable lifestyle.

Bulletin Board Bonanza: Revamping Spaces with Old Curtain Layers

Create a one-of-a-kind bulletin board using the layers of your old curtains. Cut the curtain fabric into squares or rectangles and affix them to an unframed cork board using craft glue or upholstery tacks. This DIY bulletin board not only serves as a practical organization tool but also adds a unique texture to your home decor. Personalize it further by attaching notes and photos with colorful ribbon or thin strips of the curtain fabric.

Curtain Closet Couture: Fashioning Stylish Valances for Closet Doors

Give your closet doors a stylish makeover by repurposing your old curtains into fashionable valances. Trim the curtain fabric to fit the dimensions of the door, and use craft glue or thread to secure it in place. Add ribbon accents for a touch of flair, turning your closet doors into statement pieces. This simple yet effective trick not only revitalizes your space but also provides an opportunity to experiment with different colors and textures.

Storage Chic: Curtain Fabric Transformed into Sofa Slipcovers

Bring a touch of luxury to your living room by using old curtain fabric to craft custom sofa slipcovers. The soft, high-quality fabric of the curtains can be repurposed into elegant slipcovers that breathe new life into worn-out sofas. Secure the slipcovers in place with ribbon ties, creating a chic and effortless look that seamlessly integrates with your home decor.

I slid the tension rod into my door way making sure it was nice and tight. Here is what it looks like with the curtain closed.

Creative Canvas: Old Curtain Room Dividers for Artistic Spaces

If you’re looking to redefine your living space, consider repurposing old curtains as room dividers. Cut the curtain fabric into long strips and attach them to a ceiling-mounted frame using ribbon or fabric yarn. The resulting curtain room dividers not only add a touch of artistic flair to your home but also provide a functional solution for creating distinct zones within a room. You can see my tutorial for this curtain turned privacy door room divider at Using A Tension Rod For Doorway Privacy, Easy DIY with Awesome Results

Make a Valance: Elevate Your Window Décor with a DIY Touch

A valance is a decorative fabric treatment that adds a touch of style to your windows. Creating your own valance allows you to personalize your window décor to match your taste and home aesthetic. Choose your old curtains with interesting patterns or colors and cut them to the desired length. Use craft glue or a sewing machine to secure the edges neatly and attach the valance above your window with a curtain rod. Add ribbon or trim for an extra decorative flair. Making your valance not only gives your windows a fresh look but also allows you to repurpose and breathe new life into your old curtains.

Here a picture with my daughter inside - my kids are so much older now, where did the time go???

Kids’ Fort: Transform Old Curtains into a Magical Hideaway

Turn your children’s playtime into a magical adventure by repurposing old curtains to create a kids’ fort. Drape the curtains over a sturdy structure, such as a clothesline or a DIY frame made from PVC pipes. Allow the curtains to fall in layers, creating an enchanting space for imaginative play. Use fabric yarn or ribbon to tie back the curtains and secure them in place. Add cushions and soft blankets inside to make it a cozy retreat for your little ones. This creative use of old curtains not only sparks the imagination but also provides a sustainable and cost-effective way to bring joy to playtime. You can see our hideout tutorial at Collapsible Playhouse Tent & Hideout

I stuck the strips to the door.

Door Draft Stopper: Keep the Chill Out with a Stylish and Functional Solution

A door draft stopper is a practical accessory that helps keep cold air from entering your home, making it an essential addition, especially during colder seasons. To create a door draft stopper from old curtains, cut the fabric to the length of your door and fill it with a material that provides weight and insulation, such as cotton or fabric scraps. Seal the ends securely, and you can embellish the exterior with ribbon or trim for added style. Place the draft stopper at the base of your door to block drafts and maintain a cozy, energy-efficient home. This simple yet effective DIY project not only helps conserve energy but also repurposes old curtains into a functional and attractive home accessory. You can see some of my door draft stoppers at

More curtain ideas include:

  • Make a Rug
  • Make a Tablerunner
  • A Curtain Headboard or Curtain Canopy
  • Make a rag wreath
  • Make a grocery or gift bag
  • Sachets
  • Make a gallery wall or art
  • Make basket liners
  • Make a waterproof picnic blanket

Incorporate these creative and practical ideas into your home, and watch as your old curtains take on a new life, showcasing the endless possibilities hidden within each thread and layer. Whether it’s a bed canopy, a bulletin board, or stylish sofa slipcovers, your old curtains can be transformed into functional and aesthetically pleasing additions to your home decor.

Find out “What Exactly Does It Mean To Repurpose Or Upcycle“, save money, and create the most amazing things.

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Check out some of my other hacks!

What can I make with old curtains? What can I do with an old shower curtain? Here are 5 cleaver curtain hacks!
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15 Comments

  1. These are great! We have french doors going into our backyard and on more than one occasion I’ve wished we’d opted for the kind with blinds built in. Never thought to use command strips to hang curtains! You have seriously made my day! Thanks for sharing at the Oh My Heartsie Girl Wednesday Linky Party! I’m having a blast co-hosting!

    1. Thank you Kaycee and I’m so glad this idea might help you too. Thank you for hosting a wonderful place for all of us to share our creations.

  2. We have done the shower curtain on a doorway where the old pocked door is jammed and we haven’t figured out how to get it fixed. The bedroom belongs to our 11 year old who needs privacy but also is prone to reading too late at night. It’s working for being able to see around the edges of the curtain… if she really does have her lights out.
    The curtains are on the French doors is a great idea if you have house guests sleeping on your sofa bed. Very nice post!

    1. Thank you so much and thank you for sharing your story. I’m so glad this is working for your family as well.

  3. Yes, actually I do have a shower curtain that needs a purpose, so thanks for the great ideas! At our previous house, I had my craft shelves in the main area of our basement, and I wanted to make them look better and less “cluttery.” I couldn’t find any fabric that I liked, so I bought 2 shower curtains and hung them on the fronts of the shelves. (The shelves were wire, so the curtains clipped right on!) Shower curtains are so versatile. Thanks for sharing at Thursday Favorite Things!

    1. Thank you so much Pam and thanks for sharing your use for them as well. they are so great for so many different things.

  4. Saw your link on Creatively Crafty. Love the tablecloth and placemats idea! Thanks for sharing.

    1. Thank you so much and thanks for stopping by 🙂

  5. Never thought about the message board. Awesome idea. Thanks Chas! I’m new to your ideas but am thoroughly enjoying them so far. Thanks for sharing.

    1. Thank you Lynn and welcome! I’m thrilled to hear you’re enjoying the ideas 🙂

  6. Super clever ideas! When we have a lot of company, we often sleep people in the room with French doors. This would be a great temporary option for added privacy. Thank you for sharing. I’m visiting from the Inspire Me Monday linkup. Have a great week Chas!

    1. Thank you so much Marielle, I’m so pleased that you like the idea for your French doors too. Thanks for stopping by.

  7. Marilyn Lesniak says:

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    Thank you for sharing at #OverTheMoon. Pinned and shared. Have a lovely week. I hope to see you at next week’s party too! Please stay safe and healthy. Come party with us at Over The Moon! Catapult your content Over The Moon! @marilyn_lesniak @EclecticRedBarn
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  8. Barbara McGurn says:

    Oh my gosh so many wonderful ideas. There is a photo of a white curtain and the tiebacks is simply gorgeous. They look like hydrangeas. I need to buy them or make them. I just adore soft colors.
    Happy healthy new year to you and your family.
    Barb McGurn

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