If you have been shopping for window curtains lately, you may have been astounded at the price of both ready made and custom fitted curtains. Curtains are expensive because in general they use a lot of fabric and of course, the larger your windows the more fabric they use. The problem is that you can not get away with cheap fabrics when it comes to window treatments.

Quality curtain fabric is important as

• it has a lot to put up with - being constantly handled as the curtains are drawn and opened and being bombarded with light which bleaches the color right out of cheap curtains very quickly
• it needs to hang properly and therefore needs a bit of weight to it unless you are going for a sheer look
• any lack of substance and imperfections will show up as the light shines right through them
  

There are ways of saving money on curtains however without spoiling the look of your room and windows and we'll look at some of these ways in this hub. In fact, with a bit of imagination you will probably find that you'll get a more unique look because you didn't just go out and buy those expensive curtains.

1. Lining

If you want to use a cheaper fabric for curtains , add a lining. Lining fabric is very cheap yet it adds weight to curtains and helps them drape nicely.

2. Use a blind

A simple roller blind or roman shade will use a lot less fabric than curtains to cover a window if you are on a tight budget. Although they are less opulent than curtains it may mean that you are able to usea better quality fabric and therefore give your room a more luxurious look.

3. Drape rather than Hang

If the cost of making up the curtains is a cost too far, simply take a length of fabric and drape it over the curtain rod or pole then gather it together in the center of the window with a tie or rope for an unusual look.

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4. Use Cafe Curtains

Curtains which cover only the lower half of the window are great in kitchens and bathrooms and give a continental look. Extend a wire across the window and attach the curtains with simple rings or even bulldog clips.

5. Liven up Plain Curtains

Plain Curtains are often cheaper than patterned ones and are easier to find ready made too. They can be a bit dull however. Liven them up by adding a patterned border or trimming with fringing or beading. If you are handy with a sewing machine you could also add an embroidered motif as a border. Tie backs are great too with plain curtains and these are easy to make with a bit of spare fabric.

6. Ready Made Lace panel

Use a ready made lace panel to cover your window. It could be dyed if necessary to match your room scheme.

7. Use Portiere Rods

If you use window panels and portiere rods you will need a very small amount of fabric to cover a window as the panels have no gathers. This is a great way of showing off a great fabric design as iyt won't be lost in the folds of the curtains.