There are many things in our world that start out understated and evolve into something much better and nicer. Bath towels are on that list. Way back in the day, bath towels were basically the same. Now we have embroidered towels, thick, luscious towels, even towels called “bath sheets”. They are very long, usually reaching from the neck area to the floor. Terry cloth bath sheets are soft and pretty and perfect for making a new set of shower curtains. Since the sheets have finished edges already you can make the new curtains in a short amount of time.
First and foremost, make sure the bath sheets you’ve chosen are long enough to reach from the rod to below the rim of the tub. If you need only two sheets to create a set wide enough for your tub all you have to do is add grommets to hang the curtains. Using grommets instead of rod pockets will prevent shortening the curtains. If you need a wider width you’ll have to sew two of the towels together.
Use half-inch binding to sew the curtains together. The binding should be a close or exact match to the color of the towels. If you can tell one side of the towel from the other pin the binding to the backsides of the towels. To do this, lay two towels side-by-side, then lay the binding across the area where they meet. Pin the binding to both towels.
Use a straight stitch to sew down one side of the binding, attaching it to one towel, then down the opposite side of the binding, attaching it to the other towel. Sew two curtains together for each side of the shower.
Purchase grommets at a craft store, fabric store or even a home improvement retailer. A grommet kit contains everything you need to attach them. The instructions are easy to follow and the grommets simple to install. Attach as many grommets as you need, across the top of the bath sheets, while spacing them about 4″ apart.
If you don’t have terry cloth bath sheets you can use ordinary terry cloth to make the shower curtains. Cut one piece to be the size you need for each side of the shower. Sew around all four sides of the terry cloth to create a finished look on the sides, a hem, and a wide band across the top. Sew one or two wide strips across the top, on the backside, to help support the grommets. When using regular terry cloth fabric you have a choice of making a rod pocket rather than using grommets.
If the bath sheets you use are not long enough you can always add a wide ruffle of lace or similar material to extend the length and add additional interest. You’ll love the terry cloth curtains which look soft and luscious. Be sure you use a plastic shower liner with your finished curtains.
Reference:
- Terry cloth here: www.joann.com
