How To: Create Modern Window Coverings With Grommets

We're fans of window coverings that are configurable in multiple ways. Sometimes we open only the lower half when its really bright out, other times we like to leave the bottom covered so that neighbors can't see in. Shades and curtains don't give us the choice of top-down or bottom-up. That's why we love this simply designed solution...

To make these curtains, you just use a grommet tool to punch grommets in the corners and centers of hemmed fabric, measured to fit your window. We'd go a step further and add another two grommets (here) in the middle. This way the curtain could also be hung "folded over", leaving the bottom covered for privacy. Its a great solution for certain rooms like the bathroom or bedroom, where privacy and lighting needs change frequently. And you can choose a washable linen or even a fun pattern!

(Images: Domino's Photo Gallery)

Comments (15)

This is a fantastic idea! Thanks :)

Not to mention, perfect for when you need to cover the lower half of a window to keep your dog from trying to break through the glass when he sees innocent neighbors walking by, but you hate to keep the curtains closed all the time because it's so dark....

i love this idea! so simple and clean looking.

missgvs - my dog does the same thing, except it's the mailman and she's broken the window 3 times!

looks like a napkin folding tutorial for giants.

What a beautiful, simple design.... and very cost effective I'd say too. I wish i had seen this post whist I was saving up to get my curtains and timber shutters for my new flat... this would have been a great, easy to make interim solution.

Wonderful idea! I've been searching for months for streamlined and flexible window covering ideas.

@Seaside = hilarious!

I love the simplicity and options in this system, but I don't know how to work it around my windowsill display of cactii. The window frame isn't deep enough to accommodate both the curtain and the snag-inducing cactus spines, and I hate the look of curtains mounted outside the frame. Hmm. Looks like I'll need to do some very careful measuring.

I did this once in my kitchen with striped fabric. If you use more grommets on the sides, you have more configuration options. (I used cup hooks in strategic places, and small finishing nails in others...) Lots of ways to drape the folds...

This is a bit off-topic for grommets, but I used fabric and liquid starch, @Seaside, if it helps with your cactus problem.

http://lloydandlauren.com/2007/09/25/window-frosting/

love it....now where can I get a grommet tool?

I really like this idea. I wonder if this would work with curtain rods. if you used an "S" hook at each top corner and one in the center. That way, if you have really nice moulding on the window it wouldn't need to be marred. Also the lower hooks could go off to the side of the casing where the tie back hook usually goes.

This is a really good solution for my kitchen alcove that used to be an under the stairs entrance to the (now filled in) cellar. The fridge and such are in there, so I need hands-free, constant access when I'm cooking, but it's also got all the wiring, the bin, and so on, which isn't very attractive, so I would like to conceal it, especially when we have people over. I was thinking about some kind of curtain and this means of fastening it is ideal. Thanks!