Ready-made curtains, especially the sheer and opaque kind, are so inexpensive it doesn’t make sense to make them yourself. You can, however, make ready-mades better! Adopt my philosophy of using inexpensive materials lavishly and expensive ones frugally (and wisely). To this end, you can turn basic shirred curtains, like these, into custom treatments with bands of sumptuous silk dupioni. The silk border not only adds style, it can add extra length to the curtains themselves.

The Better Ready-Made curtains and many other wonderful projects can be found in 101 Ways to Use Your First Sewing Machine by Elizabeth Dubicki. This fresh and contemporary approach to an age-old tradition gives readers instruction and inspiration to be successful using a basic sewing machine. This handy guide is perfect to take along when buying fabric and supplies, and features a lay-flat format for hands-free use. In this easy-to-follow book, readers will find:

More than 150 detailed photos and 12 patterns that lead them through fun and practical home décor projects and stylish alteration methods

Step-by-step instructions to achieve inexpensive custom looks for the home and wardrobe.

Tips and tricks to help sewers expand their skills and use of their machine

Purchase a copy of this book here.

101 Ways to Use Your First Sewing Machine

  Elizabeth Dubicki

$22.99