Skip Traditional Treatments: There's A More Resourceful Way To Cover Windows

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Let's be honest about traditional window covering options: They're sometimes ridiculously overpriced and/or boring copy-and-paste versions of each other. Not to mention, many of these typical treatments suffocate rooms with very little sunlight and no personality. It's no wonder some homeowners are on the search for unique window treatment ideas. And that's why we love this homespun version from nanairo handmade, which turns scrap fabric into whimsical hexagons stitched together into strands of honeycomb-style window coverings that twist with the breeze. It's a bit like a homemade curtain, but the mosaic-like fabric sections let sunlight stream into your room.

This project is the perfect way to use up any fabric scraps you've saved. You can adjust the size of the hexagons to work with the scrap material you have. And if your stash is low, cut up old curtains, sheets, and other fabric items. Even if you have to buy materials for your project, you can still make it affordable by thrifting the fabrics and any embellishments. You can use just one fabric or mix in several different patterns like the inspiration project. 

Other supplies include thread and clip-on curtain rings, such as the AMZSEVEN 40-pack Rings. You might need to get embellishments necessary for customization ideas like tassels on the ends, lace around the edges, or buttons to create a cottagecore vibe. These items can be repurposed from your stash or you could inexpensive versions, like this 100-pack of Youbay Decorative Tassels for $6. Look around your room for window treatment inspiration since you need to choose embellishments that coordinate with the existing theme. And don't worry if you're not handy with a sewing machine. You can make a no-sew version using fabric tape or fabric glue. 

Decide on the length — a valance-style window topper is usually between 12 and 21 inches long, or you can make the strips cover the window fully. Next, decide how large you want each panel to be. The original creator made a template with the sides roughly 5 centimeters each (about 2 inches) each, but you can make yours larger or smaller. Determine how many hexagons you need to complete the covering, and cut out twice as many pieces of fabric since each panel will have a front and back piece.

To sew each hexagon panel, place two pieces, right sides together. You can do two matching fabrics or two different designs. Sew the edges (or use fabric glue or tape), leaving a small gap on one side. Flip the hexagon right-side out and close up the hole. Repeat with all the hexagons. You can add lace, trim, buttons, beadwork, or other accents on the panels to personalize them.

Next, arrange the hexagons into rows. Look at the designs and colors in each panel and test different arrangements to find a layout you like. Stitch the hexagons in each row together. The original design shows them connected at the points, but you can switch it to sew the straight sides together. Add a fabric flower or tassel at the end of each row if desired. This will also help keep the strands weighted down. At this point, each strand is separate — hang them individually, or sew the top hexagon in each row together to make a header. Add clip-on rings to hang the curtain over a rod. 

If you want more of a curtain feel, sew every row together. You'll still have gaps between them where sunlight can flow through, but the window covering will be more stable. To change up the design, try squares, circles, or other geometric shapes in place of the hexagons. Or, make a variety of sizes of the hexagons. You'll have gaps between them anyway, so mixing in larger and smaller shapes is a simple way to make the design more unique. 

To incorporate more textures, work in beads or ribbon. These materials are also low cost, with many options under $5 for an entire roll of ribbon or pack of beads. Instead of sewing the hexagons to each other, cut long pieces of ribbon, and sew or glue the hexagons to them. Or, cut short pieces of ribbon and use glue to craft them into a bow shape, then sew or glue the bows to each point where the hexagons on each strand connect. If you prefer a beaded look, you can mix in long beaded strands between the hexagon strands for a boho vibe.

The way you hang the fabric panels can also be customized. While the original uses clip-on rings, you can sew or glue fabric or ribbon loops to the top row of fabric hexagons. Then, slide those loops over the curtain rod. Layering window coverings is a popular alternative window treatment trend, and this DIY is perfect for that. If you want more privacy, pair the hexagon window treatment with blinds or window film for the layered effect.