Monday Made It

I am linking up once again for Tara's Monday Made It.

I have been waiting impatiently to share this photo with you... but I knew I wanted it to be my Monday Made It since I... well... made it!  I was so excited to make panels for my large windows in my classroom.  I knew I wanted it to feel like something I would put in my own home so I opted to go with two tall panels.  I basically just went to the fabric store and browsed around for what I wanted.  This is the end result... and I love it!

I'll post more of my classroom today, but I wanted to get it a little more organized before I did that.  I just love these curtains and all the pretty things hanging from the ceiling.  And yes, the large white round lantern is actually a light.

Here's where I got everything...

fabric- Hobby Lobby

curtain rod and hooks- Wal-Mart

pink shag rug- Garden Ridge

large white lantern- Ikea (only $15 for the entire setup)

puff balls- The Knot

I won't bore you with the 'how-tos' but I will share the steps just in case you would like to make your own... they are SUPER easy.

First, get all your supplies together.  You will need 

-your actual curtain fabric and a white liner fabric (I just used white cotton.. the cheapest they had.)

-scissors

-measuring tape

-straight pins

-sewing machine

Place your curtain fabric with pattern facing your lining.  I just left mine the width of the fabric (I think it was 44".)  Cut the fabric the length you will need.

Now, place straight pins around the edge of the entire panel being sure to leave space to sew between the pins and the edge.  Yes, you actually need to do this.  It keeps the fabric in place and prevents it from moving around.  I use to not do this..... such a time and frustration saver!

Sew around the edge, leaving an opening about 6".

Cut off any excess fabric.  You want your edge to be as close to your seam as possible.

Now turn it inside out (this is why you left the gap.)  Lay it flat and iron the edges flat.  Now sew around the panel one last time being sure to completely sew up the gap left by tucking in any fabric and making it look like the rest of the edges.

Now you are ready to apply your hooks for hanging.  If you are not wanting to use hooks then you will need to make a pocket for the rod.

Making your own panels is so easy and you can find the exact fabric you want instead of settling for something from a store. I just love mine!  Now go link up with Tara!