Wednesday, March 3, 2010

Homemade Closet Door

You found the ideal apartment: it's the right price, the right size and in the right location. It isn't perfect, though. The kitchen appliances may look a little worn out, and there isn't a closet door in your room. While a kitchen makeover is out of the question, you can easily and cheaply create a homemade closet door. Does this Spark an idea?


Fabric Curtains


The most common solution when there are no closet doors is to re-purpose a curtain to cover the opening and hide the closet's contents. Use a decorative curtain rod and cut the fabric into two equal pieces. It is easier to part the curtains in the middle to get into your closet rather than pull one large piece of fabric aside.


You might consider installing hooks on each side of the door so you can leave the curtains parted when you're getting ready or cleaning out the closet. Then draw them closed when guests come over. If you don't have extra curtains, you can even use a bed sheet or shower curtain for the same effect. If you know sew, choose your own fabric and hem the edges for a personalized touch.


If you are feeling especially crafty, install a track so your curtains can slide easily like those in a hospital. Choose sheer curtains to let in a little light and make your bedroom feel larger, especially if your closet opening is long.


Beaded Dividers


It may seem a little hippie-dippy, but hanging beads can make the transition between your bedroom and closet, well, groovy. Use this as an opportunity to get creative: purchase inexpensive beads in bulk and string them up yourself. You can control the color and pattern, creating your own ethereal screen. Consider wood, crystal or seashell beads. The effect can be elegant and exotic rather than tired and dated. Don't rule out the option of beaded dividers.


Creative Curtain Alternatives


While curtains and beads are the go-to closet door alternatives, there are many other materials you can use in place of doors. Hang a colorful sari over your closet opening: it will brighten the room while still emitting some light. Consider installing bamboo roll up blinds. The natural material will add texture to your space. Keep in mind, though, that a roll up blind is best used for closets you don't access everyday, as it might become tedious or malfunction.


Finally, embrace the fact that your closet doesn't have a door. It will force you to keep the contents organized, and you can highlight your efforts by painting the opening's frame an eye-catching color.

Tags: your closet, closet door, closet opening, rather than, there closet