First DIY of 2012: Curtains

Well, here we are. Eighteen days into 2012. And, what do I have to show for myself? New skillz...that's what.

Sewing skillz to be exact. I've officially graduated from my no-sew phase and I have to admit: it's pretty awesome. So far I've made aprons, a market tote and living room curtains. I'll admit, there's been some bumps along the way. Like completely sewing the top of the tote shut (Couldn't even squeeze in a bottle of wine banana!). But, I'm working out the kinks and humming along just fine!

I started with some curtains for the living room. Here's a dark picture of the before (you get the idea, right?).

I bought the fabric for about $40 on clearance...I think I bought about 13 yards, which I cut into 6 panels (with some left over). I didn't do any fancy stitches...or even a top stitch, since I hadn't even learned that one yet. It was my first project. I was excited just to sew in a straight line. I sewed a hem around all sides. No grommets or tabs. Again, happy not to sew my finger to my new drapery.

Then, I ran out to Target and picked up some curtain rods and clips. Which actually was more expensive than the fabric. But, I got over it.

And...Voila!

They definitely give the room a more warm and dressed feeling. I'm hoping to get rid of the white blinds soon. Obviously, I hadn't taken the sewing machine to the pillow in the picture yet (she's all better now, though).

Since then, I've graduated to bigger and better things. Like this:

Super cute, right? I've got my eye on a vintage grain sack to do something like this from rebeccasaix:

Baby steps, though. I did sew the first tote closed. Even Martha had to start somewhere, right?