Declutter Your Space: Conceal Clutter With DIY Storage Curtains
Clutter can quickly take over our homes. Piles of stuff on counters, overflowing closets, and crowded garages are all too common. While organization systems help, sometimes we just need creative ways to disguise the clutter visually. An innovative solution? Use curtains to conceal storage areas and instantly transform messy spaces.
Hanging curtains to hide storage is an affordable DIY trick that can make a big impact. With just some fabric and rods, you can craft stylish curtains to cover anything from open shelves to containers under furniture. The result is a room that looks cohesive and put together, not chaotic. Read on to explore the benefits of using curtains for storage and get inspired with clever ideas.
Benefits of Using Curtains to Conceal Clutter
Curtains are a genius storage solution for many reasons:
- They instantly improve aesthetics by covering clutter.
- DIY curtain projects are easy and don't require special skills.
- Fabric and rod costs are very affordable compared to new furniture.
- Choose patterns and colors to coordinate with your decor.
- Accessing storage is convenient by simply parting the curtains.
- Curtains are adaptable for use in many areas of your home.
With countless colors and fabrics available, it's simple to create storage curtains that blend seamlessly into any space. Whether you want an elegant printed curtain in your bedroom or a casual canvas curtain in the playroom, the options are endless.
Prime Spaces to Use Storage Curtains
Looking for inspiration on where to install your concealing curtains? Here are some top spots to consider:
Open Shelving Units
Exposed bookshelves or cubbies often end up disorganized. Hide the clutter by hanging curtains. You can use spring tension rods for an adjustable fit. Or install standard brackets to mount a curtain rod directly into the shelf.
Under Furniture
Under beds, desks, craft tables, and other furniture are wasted spaces. Use DIY curtains to cover plastic storage bins or boxes tucked underneath. Measure first to get the right size curtains.
Around Appliances and Utility Areas
Curtains are perfect for disguising eyesores like water heaters, washers and dryers, and litter boxes. Simply surround the area with tension rods and opaque fabric for an instant upgrade.
Kid's Toy Storage
Never ending piles of toys and games can make family rooms chaotic. Use whimsical curtains to cover toy storage bins or bookcases to instantly hide the clutter.
Choosing Rods and Hardware
Once you've selected the perfect spot for your storage curtains, it's time to pick rods and hardware. Here are some top options:
Tension Rods
Tension curtain rods are ideal for quick and easy installation. Their adjustable width fits openings of various sizes. Spring loaded ends grip tightly to surfaces without needing anchors or screws. For light to medium weight curtains, tension rods are very affordable and convenient choices.
Standard Curtain Rods
Standard curtain rods require a bit more work to install since they need to be mounted into walls or ceilings with brackets. However, they can hold much heavier curtains. If you plan on using thicker curtain fabrics, standard rods are a sturdy pick.
Choosing Fabric and Curtain Style
When selecting fabric, consider both function and form. Look for fabrics that will hide contents well while also coordinating with your room decor. Cotton, canvas, and polyester blends are practical choices. For added privacy, pick an opaque fabric over a sheer one. The curtain style offers you another chance to customize the look. Choose between neat pleats or flowing gathers:
Pleated Curtains
Pleats create tidy, uniform folds. The tailored look works well for storage curtains. To make pleated curtains, fold the fabric into sharp knife pleats and tack them in place along the top.
Gathered Curtains
Gathered curtains have a casual, billowing effect. Rather than pleating, extra loose fabric is left at the top to create soft ripples when hung. Gathered curtains disguise contents while adding a relaxed vibe.
Step-by-Step DIY Storage Curtain Tutorial
Ready to tackle your own storage curtain project? Follow this simple process:
Measure the Area
Grab your tape measure and measure the length and width of the space to ensure you get curtains sized correctly.
Cut Fabric to Size
Cut your fabric to the measurements, adding several extra inches on all sides for hems and header space. For gathered curtains, cut even wider.
Install Rod
Mount your chosen curtain rod centered in the space. For tension rods, simply position in place.
Attach Curtain to Rod
Use clips, rings, or a rod pocket sewn into the curtain to attach the top edge to the rod.
Hem and Finish Fabric
Neatly folding under the cut edges and sew hems. Add header tape too if needed.
Create Pleats or Gathers
For pleats, neatly fold and pin fabric. For gathers, leave extra loose. Sew in place along the header.
Inspiring Storage Curtain Ideas
Looking for extra storage curtain inspiration? Get creative with these tips:
Mix and Match Prints
Don't be afraid to combine patterns and textures. Mixing print curtains with solid blankets stored behind them adds visual interest.
Unexpected Spaces
Consider unexpected spots like closet doors, room dividers, or under sinks. Curtains can transform even the most mundane spaces.
Layer Curtains
Sheer curtains alone don't provide enough coverage. For better concealment, hang opaque curtains behind sheers.
The possibilities are endless for how to use curtains to hide. Whether you want to cover a bookshelf, disguise storage bins, or conceal an appliance, DIY storage curtains add style and keep rooms looking cohesive. Embrace your inner interior designer, break out the fabric and rods, and enjoy your newly organized space!