How to make drapery panels

In times of rising energy costs, trying to make your house energy-efficient is a must. One way to do this is to make drapery panels for your windows. By creating drapery panels, you help to create a cover that can insulate the window, keeping the cold air of winter out while keeping the warm air of the house in. Having drapery panels can help you to cut down on cooling costs as well, by blocking the sunlight, thus keeping the heat out and the cooler air in. One of the simplest ways to make drapery panels is to use duvet covers.

Measure your window and buy the duvet covers

Measure the window or windows for which you wish to make drapery panels.
This can help you to determine what sized duvet covers you will require. The width of the window may require you to buy two twin duvet covers or two full-sized covers. In order to save money, buy your duvet covers at thrift stores or on sale.

Prepare the duvet covers for the window

Lay the duvet cover on your work table so that the opening is on the bottom and the finished top edge is on the top. Cut a piece of fabric (strips from a sheet or clothing) that is three inches wide and the length of the duvet cover's width. Add a half-inch all the way around for seam allowance. Measure down four inches, and pin the fabric in place with the unfinished edge down. Pin the bottom of the fabric down as well and sew them in place, by using thread that will blend into the colour or colours of the duvet cover. Repeat this step for the other duvet covers.

Hang the duvet cover drapery panels

Install a traverse rod or drapery rod on the window. Turn the duvet cover so that the strip of fabric faces the window and not the centre of the room. Thread the rod through the fabric on the back of the duvet cover. Repeat the step with the other duvet cover to create your drapery panels. If you prefer, you can have just one duvet cover per window. To allow-in light, simply tie the duvet cover in the centre with a ribbon. You can use other fabric for this project as well, such as vintage tablecloth and sheets.