I took this picture in the Summer of 2008 in the Allentown district of Buffalo, New York. I love to walk the blocks there and see all the creative and interesting ways people have restored and revitalized homes in the city.

These porch curtains have been on my mind since I’ve seen them. I have seen them on a few other homes, mostly homes circa the 1920’s & 30’s. I think they are elegant, whimsical and cottage like.

I have a very low budget for my home decorating, so I have been thinking of ways I can do this “on the cheap”. Fabric, even at a discount store, adds up in price very quickly- especially considering the yardage that would be required.

So, I have thought about a couple of alternatives to expensive fabrics. Bed sheets, when purchased separately are way cheaper than fabric by the yard. They are also an excellent width for use as curtains on a large scale. I’d try a print or color that will not be very prone to fading. Perhaps a color that compliments your house paint or the secondary color- like the color of your trim or shutters.

For a real weather-resistant fabric that you could probably reuse the next year, how about shower curtains? I would recommend the type that looks like traditional fabric because it is smooth flowing, but not the kind with an attached valance as that would catch leaves, bugs and cobwebs.

I love front porch living in the summer- and it’s great to really “pimp” out a porch with cushiony furniture, a glider, a fountain, potted plants, windchimes, etc. What else could you possibly ask for after the soft, billowy curtains that will sway in the evening breeze?

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