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Using discount drapery fabric as part of your decorating scheme is a simple and inexpensive way to update your home design. Don't be tempted to limit yourself to curtains when considering this style of material, drapery fabric can be used to fashion table covers, seat cushions, pillow cases and even duvet covers.

The traditional art of sewing seems to be every decorator's worst nightmare and they have come up with numerous ingenious way to use drapery fabric in the home without having to sew a stitch.

The first way is simply to fold fabric before you hang it. Careful accordion folds will hang well and will maintain their shape if good quality heavy fabric is used. You can thread the folded material through rings fitted to the walls to create a classic valance, with tails that cascade down on either side.

Another way to avoid the sewing machine is to use a heat activated adhesive, specifically designed for fabric. This has the appearance of a thin sheet of web-like white material and you place it between two pieces of material to fasten them together. When you run a hot iron over the material the glue is activated and secures the material. Always make sure the adhesive is washable if necessary, as many are not.

If you do decide to tackle a sewing project there are some simple rules to bear in mind. Stick to solid color or small patterns if you are a beginner. It is tricky to match up bold patterns like stripes of checks when you are creating window dressings. You can use tone on tone fabrics, that are of one color but have a pattern in a different texture. These can give a very professional effect without the trouble of having to match up the patterns.

In addition to drapes there are a number of uses for thicker fabric. Cushion covers can look very smart in drapery material, and if you add buttons or a zipper, the coves can be removed to be washed easily. Drapery fabric is usually simple to clean in situ as well, well small stains appear.

Table runners are another popular use for drapery fabrics. Adding a solid color backing and some piping or fringing will give weight to your runner and produce a very stylish and expensive effect.

If you want to use drapery fabrics in your bedroom, you may need to look for a light weight variety that will stand up to frequent washing. A new duvet cover and a few scatter cushions, when they complement the existing drapes or wall coverings, can give your room a great new look for a very reasonable price.