Old-fashioned, velvet portieres still make a statement, especially when hung in double layers. This decoration at a home's entrance lets you know there's a treat in store in the rooms beyond.

The coordinated velvets, one solid and one in a damask pattern, are tied back with matching tassels. Each panel is hung on a 1-inch tension rod, which is disguised with a piece of decorative molding, painted and nailed in place with finishing nails.

Find more project tips and ideas below.

 

Sewing and installing a portiere is as easy as a making a simple curtain panel. You can use just one fabric and finish the raw edges with iron-on hem tape or by sewing.

For added opulence, use a different fabric on each side; sew the edges of the two fabrics -- right sides together leaving an opening, turn, press, and sew the opening closed.

The panel's header area depends on how you will hang it. You can hang a portiere from a regular curtain rod on one side of a doorway, or gather it on a tension rod hung within the door frame. Be sure to install some kind of tie-back, so you can easily walk past the fabric.

Super Simple Valances