I’m not what you would call a home dec person; in fact I’ve never sewn home dec before in my life!
Still, when the opportunity arose to help celebrate Mood Fabrics’ brand new NYC home dec space by sewing a project for the Mood Sewing Network, I couldn’t say no — well, first I said no, but then I reconsidered. And I’m so glad I did!
I’ve wanted new curtains for the balcony-facing windows in my apartment for a long time. Previously we had store-bought, off-white linen panels that were always just a little too short and a little too stiff (and over time, a little too dirty). I wanted to replace them with something that was simple yet sophisticated, sheer enough to admit light (nobody wants to sacrifice light in a city apartment) but still provide sufficient privacy from the neighbors across the way.
I found just the fabric: a classic poly weave that looks like linen, but has a heavier drape and a much softer hand. And since it’s extra wide (110″), I only needed to make two panels. Six yards did the trick.
I love the somewhat rough texture of this fabric — so much more interesting than a smooth, uniform weave.
Never having sewn curtains before, I won’t pretend this project was a cinch — it wasn’t. I didn’t measure as carefully as I should have, or maybe my floors are uneven (when in doubt, blame the floors), so I had to rip a few seams out and re-adjust until I got my hems just right.
One of the great things about this poly linen is how easy it is to cut and to press. The visible warp and weft threads made it simple to keep my fabric on grain.
I love the result. There’s nothing like a fresh window treatment to brighten up a room and this was the incentive I needed to clean up the apartment!
This poly linen-look fabric is perfect for a mid-century modern style apartment or house. It really captures the clean, spare look of the period.
It feels good to have taken on an entirely new challenge and to be so pleased with the result. I’m not ready to give up sewing clothes, but I just might consider another home dec project in the near future!
