The curtains you choose for a baby’s room are a large part of the overall decor. They are not only a decorative item though; the right curtains can help the baby sleep soundly at nap time. You will want to keep safety in mind when hanging your baby’s curtains. Specifically, watch the length of the curtain and cords. Children may pull themselves up on long curtains or dangling cords and cause injury.
Alternative Curtain Ideas
An inexpensive way to achieve a custom look is to use sheets. Sheets come in a huge array of styles, patterns and material. Line the sheet you choose with a matching solid sheet so that the curtain looks and hangs better. A double layer also avoids extra light shining into your baby’s room.
You can use clip-on rings, or thread the top of the sheet through a curtain rod. Achieve the look of a valance by flipping the top of the sheet over the rod, and use clips on the fold lines. This looks best if you use a coordinating backing sheet.
Another idea is to use baby blankets sewn together in a crazy quilt pattern. Add a sheet or fabric backing to help block light, and in the case of a knit or crochet blanket, prevent stretching.
Plain store-bought curtains, as well as plain sheets, can be dyed, tie-dyed, stamped or embellished with fabric paints. You could sew on piping, buttons or ribbon trims. When choosing curtains, remember that the curtain should equal two and a half times the width of the window.
Curtain Valance Ideas
Create a valance that draws attention by using baby-related items. Hang a string across the curtain. Use small clothespins to hang stuffed animals or baby socks.
Child-size hangers can hold newborn dresses or sweaters. Use three ribbons spaced along the rod to hold a piece of fabric loosely up, creating a valance.
Use a patterned fabric that goes along with the theme of your baby’s room, and choose a ribbon that accents it.
Repurpose leftover wallpaper from the baby’s room by papering a wooden or even heavy cardboard valance.
Tieback Ideas
Start by installing cup hooks or other hooks to the wall on either side of the window.
Doorknobs or small toys can also be used to hold the tiebacks. Find a style that suits the theme of the room.
Consider a garland of silk flowers or greenery for a girl’s room or a bandanna for a western style or boys room.
Choose a ribbon that complements the curtain, and either sew it into a loop to thread the curtain through, or attach the center to the hook, and tie a bow around the curtain to hold it back.
Belts, feather boas, beads or a leftover piece of fabric from your curtain can also be used as a tieback.
