Replace Your Closet Doors With A Unique Alternative Solution To Transform Your Space

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If your closet has ever been so full of clothes that you've had to lean against the door to get it shut, you're not alone. Whether your closet doors are old and ornery, oddly shaped and awkward, or you're just ready for a new look that's more cute than chaotic — look no further than a macrame curtain. From creating a unique room divider to surrounding your bed with canopy-style drapes, there are many smart ways to use curtains around your home. While you can technically swap your closet doors for a solid panel, designers and DIYers alike agree that macrame curtains add both functional coverage and an aesthetically charming look.

A textile art with a decidedly bohemian vibe, macrame is made by carefully tying a series of decorative knots in a natural fiber cord. Unlike basic builder grade closet doors that close off air circulation and can lead to musty odors — especially in items you're storing long-term — macrame curtains allow fresh air to flow around your favorite clothes, keeping them smelling fresh. Replacing your closet doors with a macrame curtain also creates a stylish and more open look that can transform your space. There are countless macrame curtain options available on Etsy and Amazon, like the charming YaoYue Macrame Lace Door String Curtain, which comes in several different colors and can be cut to size if your closet is an unusual shape or size.

To make your own macrame closet curtain, you'll need to start with a sturdy rod as long as the length of your closet opening. Although you can use a tension rod, installing a bracketed one like the Supforce Heavy Duty Adjustable Closet Rod can provide more support when holding up your finished curtain. You'll also need a roll of macrame cord in your desired length and color. You may even want to add large wooden or metallic beads to your curtain for an earthy or sparkly look.

Macrame decor has been back in style for several years, but if you've never tried to make it yourself you should watch a few TikTok or YouTube tutorials on basic macrame knots before getting started. While there are endless patterns out there you may want to emulate, for a basic curtain start by looping long lengths of cord around your rod, one after the other, until the rod is completely full. Once you start creating your knots, the cord will get shorter, so make sure to pool plenty of extra at the bottom. Next, make a series of simple square knots at the top of each length of cord to secure it in place. If you want to move your curtain from side to side, make sure you don't over tighten these knots. Finally, make a series of macrame knots across the top of your cords before working your way down. As desired, thread beads on the cords to personalize your curtain.