The Joy Of Creating Custom Shower Curtains

Friday, November 30, 2012
You open the door to your bathroom. The white plastic shower curtain hangs limply in this all too functional bath space. You know life is supposed to be more meaningful than this. You know you should have harmonious beauty in every inch of your living space. But your checking account is woefully low and a professional decorator is not in the near future plans. But you have something more valuable than money bubbling within. Good taste. You know what you like, which is half the battle in this DIY project. Beautifying this drab environment and creating a stunning showplace that will have you seeking out this small space takes little more than a good idea and second grade level craft skills. What more do you need to have a fun afternoon while creating custom shower curtains.
Supplies:
- Inner liner
- Fabric
- Iron
- Fabric glue
- Hooks
- Embellishments
Getting Started

1. Measure. A standard shower curtain is 72 inches by 72 inches; however, measure your own. Since the curtain will not contact water, let your imagination run wild. Can you raise the rod and make a larger, more dramatic curtain? Do you want your shower curtain to pool on the ground in the manner of expensively flowing draperies?
2. Select and Prepare Your Fabric. Fabric possibilities include draperies, sheets, thrift store finds and of course, fabric or upholstery stores. Hem the outside edge by ironing a crisp, clean seam around the entire piece of fabric. Use fabric glue to secure the edge and clamp with paperclips until dry. You do not want to press so hard that the glue seeps through to the front of the fabric. An alternative is to sew the seam. Cut holes for hooks and finish with grommets, buttonholes or the iron/glue technique.
3. Create.
Let your inner designer explode forth and fashion the custom shower curtain of your dreams. Here are a few ideas to help inspire your own creative genius:
The Sophisticate
Purchase a set of the ready-to-hang draperies that match those in your living area. Using several panels, drape them to the side and secure them with rope tassels. Purchase smaller rope tassels to hang on the guest towels. Not only is this a pretty touch, the cordoned off towels remind the family not to touch the good stuff. Lay out a hand towel by the sink or additional bath towels for regular use.
The Diva
Start with a white, light pink, fuchsia or black fabric. Glue inexpensive craft store rhinestones in a pattern or spell out your name in either block letters or cursive writing. This also works well with the ready made shower curtains in most home decorating departments.
The Artist
Using acrylic paints and a plastic shower curtain, paint the design of your choice directly on the curtain. This is a great way to create a whimsical curtain for the children's bathroom. Use stamps or stencils of your choice or let the kids have a blast and create their own masterpiece. For a nautical decor, use tape to create vibrant vertical stripes in any color you desire. If you have a deft hand, display your own artwork and enjoy the pleasant compliments that are sure to be forthcoming when your friends and family witness your playful and smile-inducing decorating savvy.

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