Creating a Custom Shower Curtain with Accessories to Match

Few things are more frustrating than finding the perfect shower curtain for an amazing bathroom design only to discover that the price tag is simply out of reach. To avoid running into this problem perhaps consider making a designer shower curtain out of a bed sheet that is every bit as attractive as a high priced designer curtain. Not only are sheets available in many different attractive designs, but they can often be found on sale. Frequently, sheets come with matching pillowcases, so there is plenty of extra material to add decorator touches to towels and bathmats. This project is a simple way to add a custom look to any bathroom.

Transforming a Sheet into a Curtain

To make a shower curtain from a sheet, start with a full sized, flat sheet, because it will fit the average bathtub opening without needing any additional alterations. The sheet is already hemmed, so there is virtually no sewing involved when making the curtain.

There are several different ways to attach the sheet, or shower curtain, to the shower rod. The simplest way is to just slide the shower curtain rod through the pocket at the top of the sheet. Since most sheets have a very generous pocket along the top hem, by simply snipping open each side, it is ready to be hung. The only drawback to using this method is that the waterproof curtain liner has to be hung from a separate shower curtain rod.

A second choice in shower curtain design is to place the wide hem at the bottom of the shower curtain, and install grommets for hanging along the bottom edge of the sheet, which is now the top edge of the shower curtain. To install the grommets, fold over three inches of the sheet and press it into place. Then make another three inch fold and use a steam iron to press it into place. The triple thickness is necessary so that the grommets can be seated into a sturdy swatch of material. Grommets can be purchased at just about any hardware or craft store. To install the grommets cut a small slit in the sheet, and insert the grommet. Then hammer the top piece of the grommet in place. Typically the pack of grommets will come with detailed instructions.

A third choice would be to sew a three inch hem along the bottom of the sheet and use a leather punch to add holes to the sheet, or sew buttonholes instead of using a leather punch. Once the grommets or holes are in place, simply insert shower hooks and hang the shower curtain. Use the shower liner to determine where to place the holes, so a single hook can hang the curtain and the liner on a single rod, and the custom shower curtain is complete.

Fashioning Designer Towels

Once the shower curtain is in place, it is time to dress up the towels. Using the matching pillowcases, embellish plain bath towels and hand towels with fabric to match the shower curtain. Sew a strip of fabric about two to three inches from the edge of the towel by simply cutting a strip of fabric and folding under the unfinished edges.

If the sheets have a pattern that lends itself to applique, then you may want to embellish towels with an applique. For example, if the shower curtain has a floral design, cutting a flower out of the fabric makes an excellent applique, and fusible adhesive can be used so no sewing is involved.

Finish your coordinated new bathroom with stunning french wall decor, southwestern wall art or any accents that define the new look.