23 Unique DIY Door & Window Curtains That Aren’t Curtains at All

Tired of the same old fabric curtains? You’re not alone. When I moved into her cozy cottage at the edge of the woods, I wanted something different, something that didn’t block the light or the view, but still added charm and personality to each doorway and window.

So I started crafting my own “non-curtains” using beads, bottle caps, shells, old postcards, and even dried plants. What began as a fun weekend project quickly transformed my space into a whimsical, artistic haven.

If you’re looking to do the same, this list of 23 unique DIY curtain alternatives will inspire you to ditch the fabric and get creative with what’s hanging in your home.

#1. Handkerchief Curtain

There’s something incredibly tender about using vintage handkerchiefs as curtains.

Maybe it’s the delicate embroidery, the whispers of stories stitched into the edges, or simply the joy of turning forgotten things into beauty.

Materials Needed:

10–12 vintage handkerchiefs (each approx. 10″–12″ square)
1 length of twine (measure your window width + 6 inches slack; typically ~40–50″)
10–12 small wooden clothespins
2 small adhesive hooks

Step-by-step Guide:

Step 1: Gather your handkerchiefs. You can find these at thrift stores, antique shops, or tucked away in grandma’s linen drawer.

Step 2: Stretch the twine taut across your window, just above eye level or where the sun peeks in best., then secure both ends using adhesive hooks.

Step 3: Use clothespins to hang each handkerchief along the line, overlapping them slightly for a fuller look.

#2. DIY Shell Bead Door Curtain

Sometimes a doorway doesn’t need a door, it needs movement, music, and a bit of magic. This shell bead curtain brings coastal vibes and soft, natural sound with every breeze.

Whether you live by the sea or just wish you did, this DIY adds texture, calm, and handmade charm to any threshold.

Materials Needed:

200–300 small seashells
Natural jute twin (~15–20 strands)
1 wooden dowel (~36″)
Small drill with a fine bit
Hot glue gun (optional)
Hooks

Step-by-step Guide:

Step 1: Drill tiny holes into your shells if needed, then pace a soft cloth beneath the shells to prevent cracks while drilling.

Step 2: Cut lengths of twine or fishing line to match the height of your doorway. For a full look, aim for a strand every 2 inches across the rod.

Step 3: String the shells onto each strand, tying knots beneath each one to hold them in place.

Step 4: Tie or loop each strand to the rod. Secure with a drop of hot glue if needed to keep them from slipping.

Step 5: Mount the rod above your doorway using nails, hooks, or curtain brackets.

#3. DIY Burlap Sack Curtains

You can turn old grain or coffee sacks into unique, vintage-style curtains like in the image above. This project is perfect for adding farmhouse warmth to a kitchen window or pass-through space.

Materials Needed:

2 burlap or jute sacks (grain, feed, or coffee sacks)
Curtain rod
Curtain clips
Scissors (optional)
Iron

Step-by-step Guide:

Step 1: Clean and iron the burlap sacks to remove creases and smells. Keep the vintage print intact for visual interest.

Step 2: If needed, cut open the sacks to create flat panels, or leave them as is for a more baggy, casual drape.

Step 3: Attach curtain clips to the top edges of the sacks. Space clips evenly to prevent sagging.

Step 4: Hang the clips onto a curtain rod, then install the rod over your window or opening.

#4. DIY Lace Doily Patchwork Curtain

This curtain is more than just a window covering—it’s a stitched-together memory. Each lace doily, every piece of vintage fabric tells its own story: maybe one came from your grandmother’s table, another from a thrift shop adventure. As the light filters through the delicate patterns, it creates a soft, dreamy glow that feels like nostalgia on display. This DIY project is slow crafting at its best—mindful, soulful, and deeply personal. Perfect for a boho space, a sunroom, or a quiet reading nook where stories are meant to linger.

Materials Needed:

15–25 lace doilies or vintage handkerchiefs (varied sizes: 8″–18″)
1 flat bedsheet (approx. 48″ W x 72″ L)
Sewing machine or needle and thread
Fabric scissors
Straight pins
8–12 curtain rings with clips
Optional: iron-on interfacing

Step-by-step Guide:

Step 1: Lay your base fabric flat on a large surface. Arrange the doilies and lace pieces on top like a puzzle.

Step 2: Once you’re happy with the layout, pin each doily in place.

Step 3: Sew each piece onto the backing fabric using a straight stitch, zig-zag, or even hand stitching if you prefer a rustic look.

Step 4: Attach curtain rings along the top or sew a rod pocket if you prefer a clean slide-on style.

#5. DIY Macrame Door Curtain

For those who love handmade texture and calming neutral tones, this macramé door curtain is the perfect blend of art and utility.

It adds privacy without closing off light or flow and brings a warm, bohemian charm to any interior doorway.

Materials Needed:

3–4mm natural cotton cord (about 150–200 meters)
1 wooden dowel
Measuring tape
Scissors
Hook or nails

Step-by-step Guide:

Step 1: Measure your door frame and cut cords approximately 4–5 times the height of your doorway. For a full curtain, cut around 40–60 strands.

Step 2: Attach cords to your wooden rod using Lark’s Head Knots, spacing them evenly across.

Step 3: Use simple square knots, half knots, or diagonal clove hitches to create a pattern in the top portion, about the first 1/4 of the height.

Step 4: Leave the rest of the strands to hang freely or add spaced knots throughout the length for a minimalist, airy look.

#6. DIY Gingham Curtain on a Hanger

If you’re drawn to farmhouse charm or cozy cottagecore vibes, this DIY curtain made with a humble wooden hanger and gingham fabric will steal your heart.

The vintage lace detail and tieback add just the right touch of softness. And the best part is that sewing machine required.

Materials Needed:

1 wooden clothes hanger with trouser clips
1 piece of fabric (approx. 24″ W x 36″ L)
1 lace doily (about 24″ wide)
Hot glue gun
1 lace ribbon (about 20″ long)
Optional: iron-on hem tape

Step-by-step Guide:

Step 1: Cut your fabric to size based on your window. If needed, iron the edges and fold them over using hem tape.

Step 2: Clip the top of your fabric to the hanger, spreading it evenly. Position your lace trim or doily across the top. You can glue it in place or pin it.

Step 3: Hang the curtain on a hook or nail above your window.

#7. DIY Colorful Door Curtain from Wine Corks

What about adding a splash of upcycled charm to your space with this vibrant DIY door curtain made from wine corks?

Materials Needed:

Wine corks (natural or synthetic, painted optional)
Screw eyes
Pliers
Metal rings
Curtain rod or dowel
Paint (optional)

Step-by-step Guide:

Step 1: Paint your wine corks in various colors (or keep natural for a rustic look). Let them dry completely.

Step 2: Screw a small eye hook into each end of the cork using pliers.

Step 3: Connect the corks vertically using metal rings or wire loops, creating strands.

Step 4: Hang each strand from a rod or dowel, ensuring even spacing across the width.

#8. DIY Rolling Pin Curtain

Who said curtains have to be made of fabric? If you’ve got a love for baking and a collection of rolling pins tucked away, why not turn them into the most charming kitchen valance ever?

This curtain brings rustic farmhouse warmth, a hint of humor and serious personality into your space.

Materials Needed:

15–25 wooden rolling pins (16–20 inches)
1 sturdy metal curtain rod (48–72 inches)
15–25 heavy-duty curtain clips
Wall-mount curtain rod brackets
Drill and wall anchors (if needed)
Measuring tape
Step ladder

Step-by-step Guide:

Step 1: Measure your window width and determine how many rolling pins you’ll need for full coverage.

Step 2: Install the curtain rod above your window using strong brackets.

Step 3: Attach each rolling pin to a curtain clip or S-hook through one of the handles. Make sure each is secure and evenly spaced along the rod.

Step 4: Lift the rod with the hanging rolling pins and place it into the brackets.

#9. DIY Vintage Handkerchief Curtain

This vintage handkerchief curtain is like poetry you can hang, perfect for anyone who treasures the charm of days gone by. It brings a soft, romantic glow into your room and feels like a gentle nod to grandmothers, heirlooms, and timeless beauty.

If you’ve been collecting vintage hankies and wondering what to do with them, this is your moment.

Materials Needed:

30–40 vintage handkerchiefs (size approx. 10″x10″ to 12″x12″)
Sewing machine
Iron and ironing board
Measuring tape
Pins or fabric clips
Curtain rod
Clip rings (10–12) or fabric loops

Step-by-step Guide:

Step 1: Lay out your handkerchiefs on the floor or a large table, arranging them diagonally in diamond shapes.

Step 2: Pin the overlapping edges together and sew them, either with a straight stitch on your machine or by hand if you prefer a more delicate finish.

Step 3: Attach the top row to clip rings, or fold over the top edge to make a rod pocket, and stitch it down if you want a cleaner, sewn-in finish.

#10. DIY Crochet Flower Curtain

Ever wished your doorway could bloom like spring? This crochet flower curtain is a whimsical way to do just that.

With dainty white blossoms and leafy green vines, it gives the illusion of nature spilling into your home. It’s soft, breezy, and adds the perfect touch of handmade love.

Materials Needed:

Worsted weight yarn in 3 colors: Green (approx. 150g), white (approx. 100g), yellow (less than 20g)
4.0 mm (G) crochet hook
Yarn needle
Scissors
Wooden dowel or tension rod (36″)
Measuring tape

Step-by-Step Guide:

Step 1: Start by crocheting your flower vines. Each vine is made of a long chain with leaves and flowers attached every few inches. You can follow any simple flower and leaf patterns you like (try 5-petal flowers and pointed oval leaves).

Step 2: Make around 8 to 10 vines, depending on how wide you want your curtain to be. Each vine should be the height of your doorway.

Step 3: Crochet a lacy top panel if you like or simply tie each vine onto a tension rod.

#11. DIY Beaded Curtain

Have you ever walked through a room divider that made you smile? This cheerful, beaded curtain does exactly that.

With every glimmering strand, it adds life and movement to your space like sunlight captured in glassy rainbows. It’s not just a curtain; it’s a playful statement piece, a nod to the 70s, and a way to make your home feel more alive.

Materials Needed:

1,000 to 1,500 plastic or glass beads
Nylon string or fishing line (about 50–60 yards)
1 wooden dowel or curtain rod (36″–48″ long, about 1″ thick)
2 to 3 small screw hooks
1 hot glue gun (optional)
1 pair of scissors
1 measuring tape

Step-by-Step Guide:

Step 1: Measure the width and height of the doorway or space. Cut strings a few inches longer than the height.

Step 2: Thread beads onto each string in any color or pattern you like. Tie a knot or use glue at the bottom to secure.

Step 3: Tie the top of each string to the rod, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Add glue if needed.

Step 4: Mount the rod with hooks or brackets. Let the strings hang freely and trim any uneven ends.

#12. DIY Door Curtain from Recycled Cardboard

You can transform scraps of printed cardboard, magazine pages, or product packaging into a stunning door curtain, just like the one pictured above.

Materials Needed:

Sturdy printed cardboard (e.g. postcards, product packaging, calendar pages)
Scissors
Hole punch
Needle and thread, fishing line, or yarn
Curtain rod
Clips or hooks

Step-by-step Guide:

Step 1: Cut the cardboard into uniform rectangles or squares (optional: mix sizes for texture).

Step 2: Punch holes at the top and bottom of each piece for threading.

Step 3: Thread them vertically using string or thread, tying small knots between each to maintain spacing.

Step 4: Attach each strand to a curtain rod using clips or by tying them directly.

#13. DIY Iridescent Bead Curtain

There’s something delightfully dreamy about this DIY iridescent bead curtain. As you walk through, it shimmers with light, casting a pastel glow that feels like stepping into a fairytale or a 90s pop video.

This curtain transforms it, giving you a hint of privacy without blocking light or energy flow. It’s perfect for bedrooms, creative studios, or anywhere you want to add a playful, magical vibe.

Materials Needed:

120–150 iridescent plastic discs ~1” to 1.5” in diameter)
12–15 clear nylon threads
1 wooden dowel
Small jump rings
Hole puncher (plastic-safe)
Hooks

Step-by-Step Guide:

Step 1: Sort your iridescent discs by size and color tone if you want to create a pattern.

Step 2: Using a plastic hole punch or a heated pin, create small holes at the top and bottom of each disc. Then, use jump rings or thread to link them vertically into strands.

Step 3: Tie each strand to your rod, spacing them 1–2 inches apart for a fuller look.

Step 4: Install the rod above your doorway using hooks or brackets.

#14. DIY Dried Citrus Curtain

If your space could use a little sunshine even on cloudy days, this dried citrus curtain is your answer.

Hanging them in strands from a rustic branch brings a perfect mix of handmade charm and natural elegance. You’ll smile every time you walk past.

Materials Needed:

Fresh citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, blood oranges, grapefruits) – about 6–8 total
Sharp knife
Baking tray + parchment paper
Oven or dehydrator
Clear fishing line or strong thread – 5 to 6 strands, each 30–36 inches long
Large sewing needle
Small red beads or decorative filler (optional) – ~100 pcs
A sturdy stick, branch, or wooden dowel – 30–36 inches long
Scissors

Step-by-Step Guide:

Step 1: Slice your citrus fruits thinly (about 1/8 inch thick), then dry them. You can bake them at 175°F (80°C) for 4–5 hours.

Step 2: Once cool, begin threading the dried slices onto fishing line or string. Use a needle to gently pierce through each slice. Add small red or orange beads between citrus slices for extra sparkle.

Step 3: Make 5 to 6 strands and tie them evenly spaced along a branch or stick. Vary the order of fruit and beads to give a natural, playful flow.

Step 4: Hang your finished curtain in front of a window or glass door where the sunlight can shine through.

#15. DIY Bottle Cap Door Curtain

Looking for a bold, eco-friendly way to divide a space or decorate a doorway? This bottle cap curtain turns everyday waste into vibrant, functional art like the parrot design shown in the photo above.

Materials Needed:

Hundreds of colorful plastic bottle caps
Strong string
Large needle
Wooden rod, dowel, or curtain rod
Drill

Step-by-step Guide:

Step 1: Plan your design! Lay the caps on the floor to create a pattern or image like a parrot, rainbow, or abstract art.

Step 2: Use a heated needle or nail to poke two holes in each cap, top and bottom for threading.

Step 3: String the caps vertically in columns, knotting between each one to hold them in place.

Step 4: Attach each finished string to a wooden rod using knots, staples, or glue depending on your frame.

Step 5: Mount the rod above your door or hallway and enjoy your upcycled masterpiece!

#16. Woven Breeze Curtains

If your heart leans toward the handmade and your soul loves a splash of color, this curtain idea might just be your next weekend joy.

With their rainbow hues and relaxed drape, they’re like a patch of wildflowers on your wall. The best part is that you can crochet them yourself even as a beginner, stitch by relaxing stitch, or find similar fabric at local craft fairs or textile markets.

Materials Needed:

Cotton yarn in various colors (7–9 skeins in rainbow or earthy tones; each skein approx. 50g)
Size 5.0 mm (H-8) crochet hook
Scissors
Darning needle
1 natural branch or wooden dowel (approx. 36–48 inches)
Curtain hooks

Step-by-step Guide:

Step 1: Choose your yarn colors, go for bold rainbow shades or subtle forest tones depending on your vibe.

Step 2: Crochet a loose mesh pattern using the chain and double crochet technique. (Example: Chain 60, turn. Row 1: dc in 4th ch from hook, ch 1, skip 1 ch, dc in next… repeat) until your piece measures the width and length of your window.

Step 3: Make several panels if needed. Each panel should measure around 12–15 inches wide and full height of your window.

Step 4: Once all panels are complete, use a large needle to weave in any loose ends. Then, simply fold the top over your branch/dowel and secure with twine or loops.

#17. Whimsical Dress Curtains

Ever looked at an old summer dress and thought, this is too sweet to tuck away? This playful DIY project turns vintage dresses into a charming window treatment that radiates warmth and whimsy. Perfect for a child’s room or a cozy reading nook, it tells a story—maybe of backyard adventures, lemonade stands, or twirling under the sun. And the best part? It’s ridiculously simple, with no sewing required if you choose the right dresses. Just a bit of imagination and a love for upcycling.

Materials Needed:

2 child-sized dresses
1 tension rod (adjustable, 28–48 inches fits most windows)
Small safety pin
Optional: decorative tags

Step-by-step Guide:

Step 1: Find two cute dresses you’re ready to repurpose, something with fun patterns or nostalgic charm.

Step 2: Slide the tension rod through the shoulder straps of each dress, just like you’d hang them in a closet.

Step 3: Adjust the placement of the dresses to cover the window as desired, slightly overlapping in the center looks casual and cozy.

Step 4 (optional): Add a tag or small card to each dress with a quote, date, or note that makes it feel like a window into a memory.

#18. DIY CD Curtain

Who knew your dusty stack of old CDs could become the most eye-catching feature in your home? This curtain transforms forgotten media into a dazzling wall of color and light.

As the sun hits the discs, they reflect a rainbow of hues across your room like your very own indoor disco or a kaleidoscope of nostalgia.

Materials Needed:

60–100 old CDs or DVDs
Strong thread (enough for 10–15 strands)
Scissors
Hot glue gun
Curtain rod, tension rod, or stick
Thumbtacks

Step-by-Step Guide:

Step 1: Sort through your old CDs. Mix colors and reflective finishes to create a more dynamic curtain.

Step 2: Thread fishing line or strong thread through the CD holes, either one at a time or link multiple in each strand.

Step 3: Continue until your strand is the height of the doorway. Repeat for the rest of the strands.

Step 4: Tie or attach each finished strand to your curtain rod or hanging base.

#19. Rustic Twig Curtain

This twig curtain feels like a breath of fresh woodland air. It doesn’t block the view; instead, it softens the light and adds texture to your window in the most earthy way.

You can imagine gathering the branches yourself on a morning walk, each one slightly different, worn smooth by the wind.

Materials Needed:

18–25 twigs or branches (length: 12–18 inches)
2 lengths of natural jute (each about 6 ft long)
Scissors
Drill with a small bit
Curtain rod or nails/hooks
Optional: sandpaper
Optional: small charm

Step-by-step Guide:

Step 1: Begin by trimming your twigs to roughly the same length.

Step 2: Drill small holes about 1 inch from each end of every twig. Thread the rope through the holes, starting from the bottom twig and working your way up.

Step 3: Once all twigs are secured, tie loops or knots at the top ends of the ropes for hanging.

#20. DIY Patchwork Curtain

If your fabric scraps could talk, imagine the stories they’d tell, travel memories, favorite shirts, grandma’s aprons.

This patchwork curtain turns nostalgia into something beautifully functional. With each stitched square, you’re not just crafting a curtain, you’re stitching together warmth, memory, and soul.

Materials Needed:

Assorted fabric scraps (60–80 squares total, each approx. 8″x8″)
Sewing machine
Matching thread
Scissors
Measuring tape
Lining fabric (optional)
Curtain rod and clip rings
Iron and ironing board

Step-by-Step Guide:

Step 1: Start by gathering your fabric scraps and trimming them into uniform squares (or rectangles for a varied look).

Step 2: Sew the squares into rows, then sew the rows together. Press each seam open with an iron as you go for a clean finish.

Step 3: Once your full panel is assembled, you can hem the edges or sew on a backing layer for a more finished look.

Step 4: Hang your patchwork curtain with clip rings or a curtain rod and let it bring cozy charm and personality to your space.

#21. DIY Patchwork Denim Door Curtain

This DIY idea gives a second life to worn denim while creating a cozy, rustic look that’s perfect for bedrooms, closets, or even backdoor entries.

Materials Needed:

Old jeans (different shades preferred)
Scissors
Measuring tape
Sewing machine or needle & thread
Curtain backing (optional)
Curtain rod

Step-by-step Guide:

Step 1: Cut denim into uniform squares or rectangles (around 6×6 inches works well).

Step 2: Arrange the pieces in a checkerboard or random pattern until satisfied with the design.

Step 3: Sew rows of denim patches together, then stitch the rows into a large panel.

Step 4: Add a top pocket or loops for the curtain rod. You can also line the back with fabric for extra weight.

#22 DIY Egg Carton Flower Curtain

Do you want to turn trash into colorful treasure with this project? This eco-friendly project is perfect for doorways, patios, or kids’ rooms and it’s a great way to recycle creatively.

Materials Needed:

Empty cardboard egg cartons
Acrylic paints & brushes
Scissors
Twine, string, or yarn
Hot glue gun or needle & thread
Wooden dowel

Step-by-Step Guide:

Step 1: Cut out the individual cups from the egg carton. Trim edges to create petal shapes.

Step 2: Paint each “flower” in bright, contrasting colors. Let dry completely.

Step 3: Poke a hole through the top of each flower. Thread string through and space them along the line, tying knots to keep them in place.

Step 4: Attach the strands to a wooden dowel or stick. Make sure they hang evenly.

#22. DIY Beaded Door Curtain

Add a splash of color and sparkle to your space with this curtain. Whether it’s for a bedroom, creative nook, or sunny entryway, this cheerful project is both decorative and relaxing to make.

Materials Needed:

A variety of beads (glass, plastic, wood)
Fishing line, clear thread, or strong nylon cord
Curtain rod or wooden dowel
Scissors
Crimp beads or knots to secure ends

Step-by-Step Guide:

Step 1: Measure the door height and cut multiple strands of fishing line accordingly.

Step 2: String the beads in desired patterns on each line. You can mix shapes and colors for a whimsical look.

Step 3: Tie a knot or use a crimp bead at the bottom of each strand to secure the beads.

Step 4: Attach the top ends to wooden rings, curtain clips, or loop them over the rod.

#23. DIY Tassel and Pom-Pom Door Curtain

Nothing more perfect than this project, it’s for brightening up doorways, playrooms, or creative nooks, and it’s easy enough for a weekend craft project.