orangecamera I'm having a similar sort of problem finding drapes I like. I found the perfect thing but they're cotton shower curtains, and therefore have holes in the top for hooks AND they're too short. I bought extras (they were only $20/ each and 72" wide). I'm going to take them to someone who makes custom drapes, and see about having them pieced together to the right length with a rod pocket on top. At the seam where they're put together, I think I'll ask for piping to make it look intentional.
Could you find ready-made drapes that you like at a good price, buy extras, and have someone make them longer for you in a similar way?
ddjones531 I've had great luck with pottery barn 120" drapes, when they are on sale. Still not what I would call cheap but...affordable and they last forever, even with 3 kids and 6 dogs. I have also purchased multiples of a shorter drape and pieced them together to get the right length and used a wide braid, or trim at the seam.
Susan Mladenovich in one of the houzz idea books, there was a link for a budget makeover and they used drop cloths. Let me see if I can find the link as I just looked at it today.
Tricia Elkinton Have you considered just hanging "panels" to divide the windows on 12 - 18 inch rods. If you don't need privacy, you might want to consider this. You'll have a lot more options in fabric styles and weights. It would certainly be a diy project if you skip the pinch pleats. I am just dying to do it to my front picture window. I love shoping at Overstock.com. It's super fast shipping and they have a very large selection. Here's a link to a picture... not exact, but you'll get the idea. http://pinterest.com/pin/94786767128363295/
Could you find ready-made drapes that you like at a good price, buy extras, and have someone make them longer for you in a similar way?
http://www.lindaholtinteriors.com/2012/10/more-budget-saving-tips-from-necn-room-makeover/