​​You're In Luck: DIY Curtains That Require Neither Sewing Nor Drilling

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If you've got a window that feels a little bare, you've probably been ruminating over easy ways to liven it up. Maybe you don't want to deal with an electric drill. Perhaps you don't own a sewing machine to sew curtains. Between renters' restrictions, the cost of tools, and an unwillingness to commit to an extensive project, installing traditional curtains can feel like more trouble than the end result will be worth. Fortunately, there is a workaround that keeps things simple, budget-friendly, and surprisingly polished. Peel-and-stick curtain tracks are a great option for anyone who wants the look and function of full curtains without drilling holes in the wall or sewing hems from scratch. The tracks adhere directly to any flat surface, giving you a clean, modern aesthetic that is surprisingly sturdy for something that doesn't require hardware.

It might be an unusual way to decorate with curtains, but cost-wise, this project stays relatively affordable. You don't have to buy rods, brackets, screws, anchors, or any of the usual fixtures needed for hanging drapes. You also won't have to hire a curtain fitter — another (often pricey) expense saved. For this DIY, all you'll need are some Gonnrly Adhesive Ceiling Curtain Tracks (this kit comes with hooks), Juexica Transparent Wave Curtain Tape, and some HeatnBond Hem Iron-On Adhesive. Before going shopping, measure the window you wish to dress to ensure the tracks are long enough. You'll also need a hot glue gun, a pair of scissors, and whatever fabric you want to use for the curtains. That's it. Since every item is simple to use, you should be able to complete this upgrade in an afternoon.

Once you have all your supplies in hand, you're ready to make this budget-friendly curtain alternative that looks expensive. The process feels more like crafting than curtain making. Start by spray painting the peel-and-stick curtain tracks in whatever shade blends best with your wall or ceiling. This step isn't a necessity, but it helps disguise the tracks, putting all the focus on the drapes. Use a plastic-specific paint, like Krylon Fusion, Rust-Oleum Universal, and Rust-Oleum Painter's Touch 2X Ultra Cover. If you're really worried about scratching, you can also apply a primer to the tracks before spray painting them. Let the paint dry to the touch — this could take up to 30 minutes. Then peel the backing off the adhesive strip and press the track firmly into place on your flat surface. Press on it for about 30 seconds to ensure a secure bond.

To create your curtains, cut the fabric to size and hem it. If you don't have a sewing machine and aren't interested in hand-stitching lengths of material, using iron-on adhesive is the easiest way to hem curtains without sewing. Attach the transparent wave curtain tape to the top side of your hemmed curtains. Again, there's no need for any sewing. If you want an extra layer of durability, you can reinforce the bond between the fabric and the tape with dots of hot glue. Slide the plastic track hooks through the loops in the wave curtain tape and clip them onto the curtain tracks. If you ever want to remove or replace the curtains, you simply peel the tracks off the wall or ceiling. If the paint lifts with the glue, patch it with repair compound and a quick coat of paint.