Sometimes a cigar is not just a cigar. And sometimes a drop cloth is more than just a paint accessory. Last year, when I was getting ready for a home show seminar, I came across a copy of Home Hardware’s Home at Home magazine and saw a brilliant idea from designer Bev Bell. She used a simple heavy cotton paint drop cloth (unused of course!) as a rustic tablecloth for a harvest dinner theme. With Bev’s permission, I used the idea in my holiday entertaining seminar. After the show, I began a quest for new curtains for my living and dining rooms, which form one long, large room.  I just about had a heart attack when I realized that the heavy linen draperies I wanted would cost a bomb. I knew I could not afford these beauties unless I sold a kidney (and I kind of want to hang on to both of them).  While I was fingering the fabric lovingly, I realized that it actually had a texture and shade very similar to my drop cloths. You know what’s coming, don’t you? Yes, darling! I now have gorgeous new, lined curtains with grommet tops that look amazing and cost well under $500. Devilishly clever, if I do say so myself. I could have saved even more if I knew how to sew. Which is why I’ll be taking an upcoming Sew Chic course. For more information, click here.