Give a tablecloth new life.

Getting Nostalgic

A square tablecloth, folded in half to make a triangle, forms this simple valance. The vintage apple print is as fun as a summer picnic. Look for old table linens at flea markets and antiques stores. Or shop for new designs that replicate vintage patterns.

This project will cost $20-50 (including the curtain rod), and should take about an hour to complete. You only need basic beginner's skills to complete this successfully.

• A square vintage or vintage-style tablecloth
• Decorative drapery tacks (available at some home furnishings stores) Note: If you can't find drapery tacks, use decorative upholstery tacks alone or with an embellishment hot-glued to the head of the tack.

1. Hang and pin. To hang the valance, simply fold the cloth in half diagonally and pin it directly to the window frame with drapery tacks, letting the corners fall loosely at each end.