Making Pretty Curtains for My Van Kitchen | VAN CONVERSION EP
Finally I have my van back! After four long months of not having it — while a legend of a mechanic fixed the engine (oops… maybe caused by my lack of maintenance knowledge) — my almost-finished cottage on wheels is finally back. And that means it’s time to dive into the finishing touches before I officially hit the road for full-time solo female vanlife.
This week, I tackled one of the most satisfying and functional parts of the build — sewing and installing curtains for my tiny van kitchen. Not only do they look lovely, but they’re also a great lightweight and flexible alternative to cabinet doors, especially in awkward or high-use areas.
🎥 Watch the full YouTube episode here
Why I’m Using Curtains in My Van Kitchen
Not all van spaces work well with cupboard doors — especially awkward angles or high-traffic areas like under the sink or the fridge. In those cases, curtains are a lightweight, budget-friendly alternative that look lovely and won’t slam or snap off over time.
I used the same cream waffle cotton fabric from my window curtains to keep the aesthetic cohesive — but skipped the blackout lining for the kitchen ones since it’s not needed.
The result? A soft, natural look that adds warmth to the space and works practically for everyday vanlife.
Tip: Curtains are perfect for awkward spots in van kitchens, or anywhere you need frequent access (such as a fridge).
Why make your own? It’s cheaper, more customisable, and you get exactly what you want.
Sewing DIY Van Curtains from Scratch
Here’s how I made both the window and kitchen curtains:
- Measured each window and cupboard space
- Cut fabric to size (adding a few extra cm for seam allowance)
- Sewed the edges after folding twice to hide raw edge
- Folded and stitched a top pocket for curtain pole
The kitchen curtains were made without blackout fabric, which made them easier and quicker to stitch.
Don’t worry if you’re not a pro sewer — this is very beginner-friendly stuff!
Hanging Curtains with Handmade Poles & Rope
I tried two different methods depending on the space:
1. Wooden Poles
For most cupboards, I used 32mm wooden dowels to create mini curtain poles. I:
- Screwed in small hooks on either side of the cupboard opening
- Slotted the poles in (no drilling into them needed!)
- This setup lets me easily remove the curtains for washing or swapping
2. Cotton Rope
In tighter spots where poles wouldn’t fit, I used cotton rope secured to the same style of small hooks.
- It’s not quite as sturdy, but works well as a flexible, lightweight solution
Both systems are rattle-free, simple to install, and perfect for small-space vanlife.
Curtain Tips for Vanlife (Window + Kitchen!)
- Blackout is key for privacy and insulation (for windows only!)
- Cotton or linen blends feel breathable, cosy, and versatile with wooden interiors
- Curtain wire, rope or rods — rope means no rattling while driving, so does wire. But they aren’t as robust as rods.
- Use Velcro or magnets to close gaps in window curtains if these will be your only way to block light pollution at night
- Skip blackout on interior curtains to reduce bulk (and cost!)
Why make your own? It’s cheaper, more customisable, and you get exactly what you want.
Final Thoughts
Soft furnishings like curtains are the final layer that bring a van build to life — and make it feel like home. Whether you’re using them for cabinets, windows, or both, choosing materials and install methods that actually work for your layout makes all the difference.
Stick around — in next week’s episode, I’ll be grabbing all the final essentials for van life and getting this cosy cottage on wheels ready to hit the road.
Subscribe to my YouTube channel for the full van build series.
🎥 Subscribe to my YouTube channel for the full van conversion series.
👉 Or browse all my Van Conversion Blogs for more tips!
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