How to Add Trim to Curtains for a Stunning Look

Find out how easy it is to add trim to curtains and other simple tips for making store-bought curtains look high end and custom!

This post is sponsored by SmithHonig. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

There I was. Wobbling on a step stool as I stood under a dark tent of curtains, trimming the top grommet tabs off while the curtains hung on the curtain rod. I felt like a legit designer rushing to pull a room makeover together with final details on the last day. I do realize there’s a better (and safer) way to do this. 😉

Add trim to curtains and impress your guests!

When I designed my office makeover I knew I needed curtains for privacy. But I also wanted them to be a show stopper and look high end!!

The problem with a lot of store-bought curtains is that they are often too short and have a rod pocket or grommet style top for hanging which indicates they came from a big box store. That doesn’t mean we can’t transform them into something glorious even without a sewing machine and I’ll show you how the right way. *Standing on a stool not required.

*This post contains affiliate links for your shopping convenience to products I love.

What you need:

• Store-bought curtains
• Trim – The Verymore Marmalade Trim
• Hot glue gun and glue sticks
• Scissors
• *Optional – curtain rod rings

Do this DIY in minutes:

• Find a great trim or ribbon to add to each curtain panel. You can attach it to the inside, outside, or both edges. Measure your curtain length to know how much trim to use.

I fell in love with the orange tassel trim from SmithHonig the minute I laid eyes on it. It made me think of Paddington bear and his love for marmalade instantly.

• Lay out your curtain panel on a table or the floor. Place your trim next to the edge of your panel. Make sure tassels, pom poms, or fringe is facing away from the curtain panel.

• Use hot-glue to secure the trim in place. Work in small sections by applying a thin line of hot glue at the edge of the panel and placing the trim on top. Smooth down with your finger. Rubber finger protective covers are great for preventing burned fingers.

• The top and bottom of your fringe may need to be folded under 1/4 inch and secured with more glue to keep from unraveling. You can also singe the tip carefully with a lighter or a coat of clear nail polish to prevent unraveling.

• Flip over the top of the curtain if you want to hide grommets and clip curtain rings for hanging. Optional – First trim off the grommet top completely before hanging. 😉 Tip – Use curtain rings on too short curtains to give you a few extra inches of length.

Make sure to only dry clean to protect the fringe!

More easy tips for making others think your inexpensive curtains are designer:

1. Buy longer curtains to make your room feel taller. Big box stores usually carry 84″ inch curtains but often longer sizes are available online with free delivery to store. It is worth the wait! I promise.
2. Want something simple and elegant over your blinds? Hang inexpensive long white sheers on a thin gold curtain rod.
3. Turn store-bought curtains into a faux “pinch and pleat” for a custom look by folding the fabric into a pleat and hanging with a decorative ring. (See picture below).

Curtains take up a lot of wall real estate so refresh your window treatments with these tips to make a big impact on the overall feel of your room. No need for new furniture and trendy decor here.

Are you bored with your drapes? Save time and money with this easy DIY!

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