I need help from craft and fabric experts, please...
By Sojournstar
@cempires (171)
United States
August 24, 2007 3:46pm CST
I am trying to enclose a 6X8 foot outdoor porch, preferrably with some sort of victorian style cabana type curtains. I will attempt to make these myself, but really need help and advice with what type of fabric to look for.
It needs to be fluid enough to drape or tie back, yet durable enough to withstand some types of weather. Any suggestions or help in this area would be so appreciated, I am so in need of both shade and some privacy on this porch, but I am not rich enough to purchase any custom stuff, and require the use of some of you guys talent and creativity to help me out.
Thank for participating in advance.
1 person likes this
4 responses
@foxyfire33 (10005)
• United States
26 Aug 07
It sounds like you've already gotten some really good "professional" advice. I was going to suggest a "sail cloth". I bought some for $1 a yard at Walmart once. It seemed pretty durable but wasn't as heavy as canvas. I had it on the west side of my house for about a year and had no noticeable fading either which is important in a project like that.
@cempires (171)
• United States
26 Aug 07
yes foxy, that is one I overlooked cause I don't go boating LOL. $1 a yard is incredible, altho you may have gotton lucky on that one. I will also research the sailcloth idea, Thanks.
I am also looking not for the fabric suggestion, but also suggestions on the type of hardware to use, and some construction or design ideas from all you creative folks, so please dont hesitate to spew any of your ideas on me.
Thanks to all you grear peeople.
@foxyfire33 (10005)
• United States
26 Aug 07
I probably did get lucky...it WAS clearance time, but you never know!
As for hardware ideas, I'll just be honest here and say that my hardware choices are limited to hot glue and maybe a little duct tape!
The only thing I can really think of would be to attach rings to your fabric and screw hooks into your porch where you want to hang the fabric.
@creematee (2810)
• United States
25 Aug 07
I think alamode has got it right. Sunbrella fabrics are amazing and work really well for the type of project you are describing. Here's a link to site that offers it at free shipping. (I haven't purchased here, so I don't know anything about their service.)
http://www.outdoortextiles.com/cat.php?CatName=Sunbrella&gclid=CIPLx-_4kI4CFQSlIwodxWlYSg
It will at least give you an idea for what you are looking for, anyway. :)
Good luck!!
@creematee (2810)
• United States
25 Aug 07
Oh, I forgot to tell you, don't be afraid to email or call the store. They should be able to help you decide what kind of fabric you need. Judge that service before you order from them!
Just my 2 cents. :)
Good luck with your project!
@cempires (171)
• United States
25 Aug 07
WOW Thank you both for the Sunbrella lead, thats an awesome place.
And thanks for the responses, I am actually getting other new ideas from some of you for other things. Keep em coming.
@alamode (3071)
• United States
25 Aug 07
The most well-known outdoor fabric is Sunbrella... I'm sure there are different brands available, as well. Try googling 'weather-resistant fabric'.
Canvas holds up well, but its stiff and not very drapeable. There are also plastic and vinyl products that feel amazingly like fabric... they may only last a season, though... I don't know how they hold up to wind and cold.
You're hideaway sounds like it will be a great place to go to relax!!
