Easy Casual Curtains

Ready for an easy way to transform one of your less formal rooms? While a fresh coat of paint can do the trick, it's even easier to so by replacing your window treatment. Read on for instructions to make curtains for less than $20 per window.

The Secret Is: SHEETS

Custom Slipcovers

Perhaps you have a couch or chair that is structurally sound but the upholstery leaves much to be desired. It's time to sew a slipcover. If you don't sew at all, hire a professional. If you have a sewing machine and know how to use it, read on.

WARNING: Decorator fabric isn't cheap. Most sturdy, appropriate fabrics run between $10-$20 per yard. Plan on around 8-12 yards for a chair and 14-18 yards for a couch, depending on style and need for matching a pattern in the fabric. You will need a bit more if you plan to make piping. Don't be afraid to explore other possibilities. The couch featured in this story was covered with four twin-size bedspreads purchased from IKEA at only $10 each. No piping was included, but the finished product is fairly fitted and cost much less than a purchased cover.

Making a slipcover from a pattern: Head to your local fabric store(s) and start dreaming. Start with the pattern books. Most brands (McCalls, Simplicity, Butterick, Vogue) will have a "Home/Crafts" section towards the back. You will find patterns for covers that are very fitted and patterns for looser, draped and tied styles. Don't be afraid to open that pattern right in the store. You won't find pattern pieces. Instead, you'll find lengthy instructions for measuring your furniture to calculate yardage, then to make your own pattern pieces, cut out the fabric, and sew it all together.

If you plan on sewing for other items in your home, you may be better off looking through a "Singer: Sewing for the Home" book. This will give you instructions for slipcovers as well as other items for your home such as curtains and pillows. You will be instructed on how to measure your furniture for fabric calculations and pattern construction. They directions will show you how to make a cover from muslin first to get a perfect fit. This truly is the best way to make a perfect slipcover. If you think you'd rather skip this helpful but lengthy step, remember that your fabric may be $5 or more per foot. While you are just sewing seams, some of those seams are a bit tricky with tucks, curves, and corners and may need to be ripped out and sewed again.

With patience, lots of pins, and many yards of fabric, your couch or chair can be transformed. When the cover is complete, your favorite question will be, "Did you get a new couch?"