Curtains are a great way to add some color and texture to your windows, but they can also become outdated or worn out over time. If you have some old curtains that you don’t want to use anymore, don’t throw them away! There are many creative ways to reuse old curtains and give them a new purpose in your home. Here are some of them!
You can reuse old curtains by making them into new items, such as aprons, bed canopies, shower curtains, table runners, or napkins. You can also use them to cover open cabinets, create a kids’ fort, or make fabric-covered hangers. You can also recycle old curtains at textile recycling centers or donate them to charitable organizations.
Types of Curtains and Reuse Ideas
There are many types of curtains and reuse ideas, each with different characteristics and challenges. Here are some of the most common ones:
- Cotton Curtains: These are the most common and versatile type of curtains, as they can fit most types of windows and decor styles. They are also easy to wash and maintain. However, they can also wrinkle easily and may need ironing before reusing.
- Silk Curtains: These are a type of curtains that have a smooth and shiny texture that can add some elegance and luxury to your windows. They are also resistant to dust and dirt, but they can be damaged by sunlight and moisture, so they may need special care when reusing.
- Polyester Curtains: These are a type of curtains that have a synthetic and durable texture that can withstand wear and tear. They are also easy to clean and dry, but they can also attract static and may need anti-static treatment before reusing.
- Thermal Backing: This is a layer of foam or fabric that is attached to the back of the curtain fabric. It helps to insulate the windows and block out light and noise. However, it can also make the curtains heavier and stiffer, so they may need more force when reusing.
How to Reuse Old Curtains by Making New Items
One of the best ways to reuse old curtains is to make them into new items that you can use in your home or give as gifts. Here are some examples:
- Apron: You can make an apron from an old curtain valance by threading a ribbon through the rod pocket and tying it around your waist. You can also make an apron from a larger curtain panel by cutting out a rectangular shape with ties at the top corners and sewing a pocket at the front.
- Bed Canopy: You can make a bed canopy from sheer or lace curtain panels by hanging them from the ceiling over your bed with hooks or nails. You can also use a curtain rod or a hoop to create a frame for the canopy.
- Shower Curtain: You can make a shower curtain from grommet- or tab-style window curtains by hanging them from the shower rod with rings or hooks. You can also use a rod pocket curtain by cutting small holes in the back side of the pocket and hanging it with ball-style shower hooks. Make sure to pair your curtain with a vinyl shower liner to protect it from water damage.
- Table Runner: You can make a table runner from an old curtain panel by cutting it to the length and width of your table plus some extra for overhang. You can hem the edges with a sewing machine or use fabric glue or iron-on hem tape. You can also embellish your table runner with lace, ribbon, or appliques.
- Napkins: You can make napkins from old curtain panels by cutting them into squares of about 18 inches (46 cm) on each side. You can hem the edges with a sewing machine or use fabric glue or iron-on hem tape. You can also decorate your napkins with embroidery, stamps, or stencils.
How to Reuse Old Curtains by Covering or Creating Things
Another way to reuse old curtains is to cover or create things with them that you can use in your home or for fun. Here are some examples:
- Open Cabinet Cover: You can cover an open cabinet or bookshelf with an old curtain panel by hanging it from a tension rod inside the cabinet. This will help you hide any clutter or mess inside the cabinet and add some color and texture to your room.
- Kids’ Fort: You can create a kids’ fort with old curtain panels by draping them over a table, a chair, or a clothesline. You can also use some pillows, blankets, and toys to make the fort more cozy and inviting.
- Fabric-Covered Hangers: You can brighten up your closet and prevent your clothes from slipping off by wrapping your hangers with old curtain fabric. Cut the fabric into long, thin strips and wrap them around the hangers, securing the ends with tape or glue. You can also use ribbons or buttons to decorate your hangers.
How to Recycle or Donate Old Curtains
If you don’t want to reuse your old curtains yourself, you can still recycle or donate them to someone else who can. Here are some options:
- Textile Recycling: You can recycle your old curtains at specific textile recycling centers that accept fabric scraps and turn them into new products. You can search online for textile recycling centers near you and call them to confirm if they accept curtains and what condition they need to be in.
- Charitable Organizations: You can donate your old curtains to charitable organizations that accept household items and distribute them to people in need. Some of the most common ones are Goodwill, The Salvation Army, Habitat for Humanity, and local thrift stores. You can check their websites or call them to find out if they accept curtains and where you can drop them off.
FAQs
Here are some common questions and answers about reusing old curtains:
- Q: How do I reuse silk curtains?
- A: You can reuse silk curtains by making them into new items, such as pillows, scarves, or sachets. You can also use them to cover or create things, such as lampshades, jewelry boxes, or wall art. However, you should be careful not to damage or discolor the fabric by using too much heat, moisture, or sunlight. You should also avoid using bleach, vinegar, or fabric softener on silk curtains, as these may harm the delicate fibers.
- Q: How do I reuse polyester curtains?
- A: You can reuse polyester curtains by making them into new items, such as bags, aprons, or napkins. You can also use them to cover or create things, such as draft stoppers, garlands, or kids’ forts. However, you should be careful not to attract static by using anti-static spray, dryer sheets, or humidifiers. You should also avoid using high heat when washing, drying, or ironing polyester curtains, as this may shrink or melt the fabric.
- Q: How do I reuse cotton curtains?
- A: You can reuse cotton curtains by making them into new items, such as quilts, rugs, or placemats. You can also use them to cover or create things, such as drop cloths, banners, or pet beds. However, you should be careful not to wrinkle or crease the fabric by ironing it before reusing it. You should also avoid using bleach on colored cotton curtains, as this may fade or stain them.
Wrap Up
Reusing old curtains can be a fun and rewarding way to give your old window treatments a new life and save money and resources. You can reuse old curtains by making them into new items, such as aprons, bed canopies, shower curtains, table runners, or napkins.
Happy recycling my little echo friendly decorators!
