Curtain tie backs are one of those tiny details that can completely change how a room feels. The good news? You don’t need fancy hardware or a trip to the store. With a bit of creativity, you can turn everyday items lying around your home into charming, functional tie backs in just a few minutes.
Below are 13 simple ideas you can try right now using materials you probably already own. Mix and match them for different rooms, moods, and seasons.
1. Classic Rope & Twine Wrap
What you’ll use:
Any kind of rope, jute, twine, or even clothesline.
How to make it:
- Cut a length of rope long enough to wrap around your curtain with a bit of extra for tying.
- Wrap it around the curtain at your preferred height.
- Tie a simple knot or bow on the side for a casual, rustic look.
- For a more polished finish, wrap the ends with tape or leftover ribbon to stop fraying.
Style tip: Use chunky rope for a coastal or farmhouse vibe, and thinner twine for something more subtle.
2. Repurposed Leather Belt Tie Back
What you’ll use:
An old leather (or faux leather) belt.
How to make it:
- Wrap the belt around your curtain panel and fasten it like you normally would around your waist.
- Let the buckle sit at the side or front as a decorative focal point.
- If the belt is too long, punch an extra hole with a nail or sharp skewer, or simply let the tail hang.
Style tip: Dark belts look great with light curtains for contrast; braided belts add interesting texture.
3. Scarves & Bandanas as Soft Ties
What you’ll use:
Fashion scarves, bandanas, or lightweight shawls.
How to make it:
- Fold your scarf lengthwise if it’s wide.
- Wrap it around the curtain and tie a soft knot or bow.
- Let the ends drape down for an elegant, relaxed feel.
Style tip:
Use patterned scarves to introduce color and print into a plain room. Seasonal scarves (like cozy knits) can change with the weather.
4. Vintage Necklaces & Beaded Jewelry
What you’ll use:
Chunky necklaces, long beaded chains, or costume jewelry you don’t wear often.
How to make it:
- Wrap the necklace around the curtain.
- Close the clasp at the back or side so it stays in place.
- Let any pendant or charm hang down as a decorative accent.
Style tip:
Pearl-style beads give a glam, vintage look, while colorful beads feel playful and boho.
5. Ribbon & Gift Wrap Remnants
What you’ll use:
Leftover gift-wrap ribbons, curling ribbon, or craft ribbons.
How to make it:
- Cut a piece of ribbon roughly 2–3 times the width of your curtain when gathered.
- Wrap it around the curtain and tie a bow off to one side.
- Trim the ends at an angle or into a “V” shape for a finished look.
Style tip:
Layer two ribbons (like a thin metallic over a wider satin) for a more custom, designer feel.
6. Braided Fabric Scrap Tie Backs
What you’ll use:
Old T-shirts, pillowcases, or fabric scraps.
How to make it:
- Cut three long strips of fabric of equal length.
- Knot them together at one end and braid tightly.
- Knot the other end when you reach your desired length.
- Wrap your braided tie around the curtain and tie the ends together or knot them.
Style tip:
Mix different colors or patterns for a fun, eclectic braid. All-white or all-neutral braids look minimalist and chic.
7. “Macramé” Shoelace Tie Backs
What you’ll use:
Long shoelaces, extra laces from sneakers, or drawstrings from hoodies.
How to make it:
- Tie two or three shoelaces together to get enough length.
- Create a few simple knots along the length (like square knots) to imitate macramé.
- Wrap the laces around the curtain and tie at the back or side.
Style tip:
White or off-white laces give a clean, modern look; colorful laces are great for kids’ rooms or playful spaces.
8. Napkin Rings as Curtain Loops
What you’ll use:
Napkin rings from your dining set—metal, wood, woven, or ceramic.
How to make it:
- Gather the curtain panel in your hand.
- Slip a napkin ring over the fabric, just like you would with a napkin.
- Push the ring to the side and gently fluff the curtain above and below it.
- If needed, secure the ring to a small hook on the wall so it stays in place.
Style tip:
This works especially well with thicker curtains that won’t slip through too easily.
9. Hook-and-Loop Cable Straps
What you’ll use:
Reusable hook-and-loop cable ties/straps (often used for electronics cords).
How to make it:
- Wrap the cable strap around your bundled curtain.
- Press the hook-and-loop sides together so it stays snug.
- Rotate the strap so the overlap seam sits at the back or side, out of sight.
Style tip:
These are fantastic for rental homes or minimalist spaces because they’re discreet and easy to adjust.
10. Chunky Yarn & Pom-Pom Tie Backs
What you’ll use:
Leftover yarn and maybe a few pom-poms from craft projects or kids’ crafts.
How to make it:
- Cut several strands of yarn and twist or braid them together into a thicker cord.
- Tie pom-poms onto each end (or make simple tassels).
- Wrap your yarn cord around the curtain and tie a loose knot or bow.
Style tip:
Use soft, fluffy yarn in bedrooms or nurseries for extra coziness.
11. Key Rings & Spare Keys
What you’ll use:
A large key ring plus spare keys, decorative keys, or keychains.
How to make it:
- Attach a few keys or key charms onto a large key ring.
- Loop the ring around your curtain fabric.
- Let the keys hang down as a decorative accent.
Style tip:
Old, vintage-looking keys are perfect for rustic or cottage-style interiors.
12. Soft Toy or Plush Clip Tie Back
What you’ll use:
Small stuffed animals, plush toys with Velcro hands, or soft toy keychains.
How to make it:
- Wrap the toy’s arms or legs around the curtain and secure with built-in Velcro or a hidden hair tie.
- If the toy doesn’t have fasteners, you can gently tie a ribbon or elastic around it so it “hugs” the curtain.
Style tip:
Adorable in children’s rooms or playrooms, especially when you match the toy to the room’s theme.
13. Rustic Branch or Dowel Holder
What you’ll use:
A short, smooth branch or spare wooden dowel, plus string or hooks.
How to make it:
- Find a sturdy branch or dowel slightly longer than your hand’s width.
- Attach it to the wall at the height where you want your curtain tied back using hooks, nails, or strong adhesive hooks (if renting).
- Simply pull the curtain to the side and drape it over the branch/dowel.
- For extra stability, tie a bit of twine around the dowel and curtain.
Style tip:
Lightly sand and seal the branch for a clean, rustic look. Perfect for boho, cabin, or nature-inspired rooms.
Quick Tips for Success
- Match your tie backs to the room’s personality. Playful options (toys, colorful yarn) suit kids’ rooms; sleek belts and necklaces look great in living rooms or bedrooms.
- Keep pairs consistent. If you have two panels, use matching or coordinating materials on both sides so it feels intentional.
- Think about practicality. If you open and close curtains daily, choose tie backs that are easy to fasten and remove (like belts, cable straps, or rope).
- Mix and swap often. Because these are so simple, you can change your tie backs with the seasons, your mood, or the décor.
With just a few minutes and materials you already have at home, your curtains can become a stylish feature instead of just something that covers the window.