You love the look of designer bedding; the matching curtains, pillows, comforter, shams, sheets and bed skirt. Yet the exorbitant cost leaves you languishing in your old mismatched bedroom. Don’t despair! You can own a quality bed-in-a-bag at a fraction of the cost. All you need is a bit of ingenuity, a little time and a very basic knowledge of sewing.

First of all, consider your room. Does it need a total makeover, or will new bedding be enough to update and rejuvenate the look? Planning ahead will save time and money later. Decide on a theme if your room doesn’t have one already. It can be as simple as a color scheme, as detailed as a period look or just an eclectic mix of things you love.

Materials
Once you know what colors and styles to look for, go shopping. Find a sheet set in the pattern and shade you desire. Comparison shop for the best bargain. Sometimes a very similar set will be much cheaper at another store. If you check the advertisements in the Sunday paper, it might save you a bundle.

In addition to the set, also purchase a plain or additional flat sheet. It is especially handy if the components of a sheet set are sold separately. If the store doesn’t sell individual items, check discount stores for low prices and buy only what you need.

Directions
Now that you have your sheet set, take the patterned flat sheet and your additional sheet and put the pattern sides together. I pin them together for easier sewing. Then sew a straight seam almost all the way around, making sure to do all four corners. On one of the sides, leave a large gap. Turn the two sheets right side out, pushing the corners square.